Lear Theater Economic Feasibility Study and Redevelopment
Reno
Summary
The historic Lear at 501 Riverside Drive needs stabilization before any reuse is possible. The commission recommended four steps to City Council: stabilization funding, a feasibility study, a subcommittee/working group, and community fundraising. About $2 million in Redevelopment Agency funds could be available after July 2026, and a community survey is open through the end of January.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 6
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 11, 2026.
Impact analysis
Roughly $2 million in Redevelopment Agency funds could be available after July 2026 for project requests including the Lear.
Preservationists, arts groups, and residents who want the historic Lear saved and reused.
Taxpayers concerned with city expenditures on non-core municipal assets.
Mentions & discussions (6)
Historical Resources Commission Regular Meeting - Jun 11, 2026
The City Council allocated $2 million for exterior site improvements and a feasibility study at the historic Lear Theater. Commissioners agreed that completing the feasibility study should be the first step.
Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting - May 6, 2026
The board allocated $2 million toward interior stabilization, exterior blight remediation, and feasibility studies for the historic Lear Theater.
Reno City Council Meeting - Apr 8, 2026
The council reviewed community survey results regarding the historic Lear Theater and debated whether the city should directly fund building stabilization or seek private partnerships through an RFP. Supporters emphasized the building's architectural and cultural significance as a Paul Revere Williams-designed landmark, while others urged fiscal caution given competing municipal priorities.
Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting - Apr 8, 2026
Following community workshops and survey feedback, the council voted to pursue an RFP process to find private partners to preserve and restore the historic Lear Theater.
Historical Resources Commission Meeting - Mar 12, 2026
City officials and commissioners discussed ongoing efforts to secure funding to stabilize and secure the Lear Building exterior. Councilmember Duerr noted that approximately $1.5 million is needed for exterior stabilization.
Historical Resources Commission - Jan 15, 2026
The historic Lear at 501 Riverside Drive needs stabilization before any reuse is possible. The commission recommended four steps to City Council: stabilization funding, a feasibility study, a subcommittee/working group, and community fundraising. About $2 million in Redevelopment Agency funds could be available after July 2026, and a community survey is open through the end of January.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
The weekly brief for Reno
What the council decided, in plain English — one email a week.
Free. Unsubscribe with one click any time. We never sell your email.