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- calendar_today July 4, 2026
The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Washoe County has secured a transformative $25 million federal grant, delivering a major boost to the ongoing Sun Valley Corridor Improvements project in Nevada. The funding—awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s BUILD Grant Program—will accelerate key enhancements along the Sun Valley Boulevard route, a vital connector for residents and businesses in the region.
Federal Support for Sun Valley Boulevard
Covering a 2.6-mile span between Scottsdale Road and 7th Avenue, the Sun Valley Corridor Improvements project is set to address decades-long safety and infrastructure needs along Sun Valley Boulevard. The federal contribution increases the investment in the corridor to $27.5 million, as part of the broader $87 million plan. The corridor, traversing the heart of Washoe County, is central to daily commutes and regional economic activity.
Tackling Urgent Safety Challenges
Safety remains the highest priority for project stakeholders. Between 2019 and 2023, the corridor saw nearly 300 crashes, resulting in four fatalities and multiple serious injuries. Pedestrian safety is a particular concern, with missing sidewalks and poor drainage historically forcing pedestrians and cyclists dangerously close to swift-moving traffic. The planned upgrades, which include the construction of continuous sidewalks, improved lighting, and new pedestrian crossings, aim to provide safer passage for all users of the route.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Modernization
The comprehensive scope of transportation improvements addresses more than accident reduction. The project will deliver significant infrastructure upgrades, replacing outdated drainage systems to minimize flooding and improve travel reliability. Drainage upgrades are essential following years of stormwater issues that have contributed to hazardous conditions on Sun Valley Boulevard. Additional enhancements include new traffic signals, ADA-compliant features, and updated signage—introducing a modern standard for regional roads.
Expanding Sustainable Mobility Options
Among the forward-looking features are shared use paths designed to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, supporting Nevada’s broader move towards sustainable and inclusive transportation. Enhanced bus stops and increased connectivity to transit will further integrate Sun Valley Boulevard into Washoe County’s expanding public transportation network. These initiatives underscore the project’s alignment with both local and national priorities to increase accessibility and mobility.
Federal Transportation Funding: A Catalyst for Change
This recent wave of federal transportation funding stems from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure bill, demonstrating federal commitment to addressing local needs. The rtc grant is a testament to effective collaboration between the RTC, the Nevada Department of Transportation, and Washoe County officials. Their joint efforts have positioned the area to benefit from vital roadway rehabilitation while providing renewed confidence in local infrastructure resilience and economic potential.
Next Steps for Washoe County
Final design phases are underway, with construction on the Sun Valley Corridor expected to begin in early 2028. Community members, business owners, and local institutions are encouraged to remain engaged as the project advances. Once complete, the corridor is poised to serve as a model for future infrastructure upgrade projects not only in Washoe County but across Nevada. The improvements will better protect pedestrians, encourage active transportation, and cultivate a safer, more reliable route for everyone traveling the Sun Valley corridor.
