Reno residents need to prepare themselves for detours along Riverside Drive, as the City embarks on a significant flood-protection construction project starting tomorrow. The Riverside Drive Berm Project will see the reinforcement of the berm and sidewalk on the north bank of the Truckee River, spanning from Booth Street to Lundsford Park. This initial phase of development aims to bolster the riverbank against the pressure of 14,000 cubic-feet-per-second floodwaters, as was outlined in a statement from the City of Reno.
For the locals who frequent Riverside Drive, the south-side walking path will be closed for an expected duration of three months, redirecting foot traffic towards the project's counterpart on the north side. During the same period, intermittent traffic control will be a common sight, replacing the existing five-foot sidewalk with one double its width and adding riprap for erosion prevention. All trees adjacent to the construction zone have been marked for preservation, a move aimed at maintaining the familiar landscape of the riverside.
The total cost for this upgrade is pegged at $1,398,933, a sum that sources its flow from the coffers of the Truckee River Flood Management Authority (TRFMA), backed by an agreement the Reno City Council signed off on in July 2025. Additionally, the Carson-Truckee Water Conservancy District (CTWCD) pitches in with the design funding. Overseeing the construction itself, ensuring it adheres to the community's and nature's needs, will be the responsibility of the City of Reno.
This endeavor is not just about resisting floods; it promises an enhanced pedestrian experience along the riverside. Once the dust settles and spring 2026 rolls in, the people of Reno can look forward to a broader and more accessible pathway. For those seeking details on the road closures that will accompany the Riverside Drive Berm Project, the City’s Road Closure Information page is the way to go. City officials say the construction is necessary for flood protection and expect the upgrades to improve safety and resilience along the riverside.
