University of Nevada, Reno’s Future Parking Gateway

November, 2021

The Parking Industry Expo is heading to Reno, Nevada in 2022, where construction of a new parking structure is under way as part of a project that will not only support the University of Nevada, Reno, but serve as an economic driver for downtown Reno itself. 

The Parking Industry Expo is heading to Reno, Nevada in 2022.

Founded in 1874, the University of Nevada, Reno is recognized as a top National University by U.S. News & World Report, and is experiencing growth at a record rate. In response to that growth, the university’s master plan includes expanding its southern campus south towards I-80 with a mixed-use precinct that will serve as a catalyst to development for Downtown Reno.

The University Gateway District will contain a mix of uses to create a vital, pedestrian-oriented, and economic generator for the City of Reno, including innovation and research spaces, commercial space and community services.

As adequate parking is essential to supporting new growth, the master plan also includes a new, seven-story parking structure. The Gateway Parking Structure, which broke ground in August, will provide 814 new parking spaces for university students, faculty, staff and visitors. 

The design takes inspiration from the rich brick finish found throughout the campus. Taking advantage of the sloped site, vehicles will enter and exit on both level one and level two, which will help break up circulation within the structure.

A pedestrian bridge on the fourth level of the structure will provide an ADA accessible connection from the structure to the rest of campus and provide safe passage over 9th Street. Design of the bridge will reflect Reno’s deep ties to the railroad, including exposed trusses to evoke a historic railway bridge, and a train-inspired curved roof.

Scheduled for completion in the fall of 2022, we look forward to telling you more about this exciting project as PIE approaches. 

Francisco Navarro, Director at Watry Design, can be reached at fnavarro@watrydesign.com