Reno Will Begin West Wash Dam Repairs in 2028
The city has opened a public comment period for the $19 million project aimed at preventing potential flood failure.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Home Renovation
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The City of Reno is planning a $19 million rehabilitation of the West Wash Dam to address structural weaknesses discovered through recent geotechnical analysis. Residents now have an opportunity to review the draft environmental document as the city prepares for a major construction effort scheduled to begin in 2028.
Why it matters
The project is necessary because both the West Wash and East Wash dams, built in 1960, have surpassed their 50-year design lifespan and would likely fail during a maximum flood scenario. The City of Reno must secure its 35% funding share to move forward with the plan to reinforce these critical structures.
The proposed rehabilitation project carries a total cost of $19 million, supported by a 65% federal funding match compared to the city's 35% local requirement. Specific municipal funding sources for the city's portion have not yet been identified.
The players
City of Reno
The local government body managing the dam rehabilitation and seeking public input on the environmental impact.
NRCS
The federal agency that requested additional geotechnical data for the project's environmental document.
The details
The project focuses on reinforcing the dam structure, addressing geotechnical concerns, and modifying spillways to ensure safety during extreme weather. Reno officials recently updated the environmental document to incorporate additional data requested by the NRCS. Construction will span approximately three years to bring the aging facility up to modern standards, and the public is invited to provide input on the proposed work.
Timeline
1960: West Wash and East Wash dams were originally constructed.
2021: First public scoping meeting held for the rehabilitation project.
October 20, 2026: Public meeting held at Reno City Hall regarding the draft environmental report.
2028: Construction is projected to begin.
The Truckee Meadows View
This project marks the first major structural intervention for the site since its original completion in 1960. It follows a regional trend of addressing infrastructure that has exceeded its planned design life to mitigate risks from modern flood projections.
Neighbors near the West Wash Dam will eventually see three years of construction activity once the project breaks ground in 2028. Residents can voice their concerns regarding the plan during the current public comment period.
The takeaway
The city is moving to replace aging flood protection structures that have reached the end of their original lifespan. Keep track of future City Council agendas for updates on project funding and finalized construction schedules.
What happens next
A public meeting regarding the draft environmental document is scheduled for October 20, 2026, at Reno City Hall.
Further reading
For more information on infrastructure projects and property safety, visit Home Renovation.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reno News.
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