The project proposes operational improvements to allow for improved traffic operations throughout the corridor based on existing and projected traffic volumes by widening Sparks Boulevard from four to six lanes between Greg Street and Baring Boulevard. The project also seeks to continue and expand multimodal improvements, address vehicle-safety issues through improved roadway engineering, and to increase overall corridor crosswalk safety.

The project aims to address the needs and recommendations made in the Sparks Boulevard Multi-Modal Corridor Study, produced by the RTC in June of 2015. The study reviewed the needs and goals for local transportation and future development, and asked the public to comment on potential solutions. This study continues that process by narrowing down and approving a project to move to construction. This project is included in the RTC’s 2040 Regional Transportation Plan.

The project is being funded through local RTC Fuel Tax.

The estimated total project investment is $80 million. Design and environmental phases are underway as the RTC allocates future project funding.

In March 2024, the Federal Highway Administration approved RTC-Washoe’s Sparks Boulevard Widening Project’s “Finding of No Significant Impact,” after public review and comment on the project’s Environmental Assessment. This means that FHWA has concluded that the project will not cause any significant environmental impacts. This determination was a significant milestone that allows the RTC to move forward with this $80 million project. The FONSI approval came after a monthlong virtual public information meeting and an in-person meeting. The RTC addressed 29 public comments received during the meetings.

The team is finalizing the design of the project and is expected to finish that process in early 2025. To avoid conflicts with the ongoing Pyramid Highway, work on Sparks Boulevard is anticipated to begin after the Pyramid Highway Project is completed in Summer 2025. The Sparks Boulevard project is expected to be completed in 2028.

Construction duration depends on what improvements are selected to be included. The construction schedule will also depend on the phasing of the anticipated work. The project team will work with stakeholders, business owners and the community to determine the best phasing for the proposed construction that will allow successful completion of the work with the least amount of disruption to the area as possible. 

Improvements will be designed to maintain the existing context of the corridor, while exploring ways to make mobility improvements, providing an accessible and inviting spaces for bicyclists, pedestrians and drivers. To make the improvements without impacting nearby neighborhoods, some of the landscaping may be altered.

The RTC wants your input and ideas on proposed alternatives and improvements for Sparks Boulevard. You can visit the project website at SparksBlvdProject.com for updates and announcements, to subscribe for our stakeholder email updates, and to leave questions and comments. You can also call the project hotline at (702) 551-0303 to leave a voicemail message. Questions and comments submitted either online or through voicemail will be answered as soon as possible and within one business day.