Planning Commission approves The Canyon subdivision map with modified sidewalk condition

The Reno Planning Commission on Feb. 18 unanimously approved the tentative map and major site plan review for The Canyon (case LDC25-64), a proposed 110-lot single-family subdivision on a roughly 168-acre site in the eastern terminus of Mineshaft Drive.

Nathan Gilbert, principal planner with the City of Reno Development Services, described the project as a two-phase subdivision that implements the Canyon PUD handbook: 110 single-family detached lots clustered on about 42 acres, with the remainder designated as passive and active open space, habitat restoration and trails. Gilbert said the plan anticipates about 65 acres of disturbance, eight cuts greater than 20 feet (maximum on-site cut 40 feet), 13 fills greater than 10 feet (maximum fill 39 feet) and a 0.9-acre disturbance of a major drainage way that would be partially revegetated and restored.

Applicant Brooke Oswald (REC Group) said the design emphasizes a 3:1 open-space-to-development balance, habitat restoration, trail connectivity, and measures to reduce grading and wildfire risk. Oswald asked the commission to allow flexibility on sidewalks in steep areas and proposed review under the Public Works Design Manual and RMC. The applicant also stated there will be an HOA-funded stewardship mechanism (a proposed $250 per home contribution) to maintain habitat and trails.

Commissioners focused much of their deliberation on a trade-off between minimizing hillside grading and providing sidewalks on both sides of streets. Staff recommended, and the commission adopted, a modification to condition 23 read into the record by Nathan Gilbert: “Prior to approval of the final map, the applicant shall, at a minimum, provide for adequate pedestrian circulation consistent with Exhibit B.” Commissioner Valto moved to approve the tentative map and major site plan review subject to the staff conditions and the modified condition 23; Commissioner Manny Becerra seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.

The approved plan preserves large areas of open space and requires habitat-restoration measures and trail easements on private land to provide public access. Engineering, grading and final sidewalk alignment will be resolved during final map and public-works review.