Plans for Lucky Spur on track

Plans for renovation of the Lucky Spur are on track, thanks to local businessmen Scott Johnson and Michael Stewart.

Peak Engineering is handling the interior plans, engineer Jim Hadden is in charge of the exterior site work and local architect and friend Art Hannafin is helping with the color scheme, Stewart said.

"We're hoping to start demolition in the next couple of weeks, but that doesn't mean we'll be tearing the building down," Stewart said. "We'll be removing additions to the interior, getting the building ready for renovation."

Built in the 1860s, the empty Spur is considered one of the last true blights in Carson City's downtown area. Now, a sports casino and micro-brewery are planned for the site.

The building is located on the corner of Carson and Proctor streets in downtown Carson City and the opening is tentatively set for Nevada Day.

Through a special agreement with owner George Halyak, the partners are leasing the building. The purchase price has been set, but the terms of the sale have not.

In the interim, the partners have full control of the renovation.

Without Halyak's generosity and "lack of greed," the project couldn't move forward, Stewart said.

"He'll allow us to do anything short of tearing the building down," Stewart said. "The building has real sentimental value for him. I grew up in Carson City and it means a lot to me, too.

"As far as the terms of the sale, they will be worked out soon," he said.

When the plans have been drawn and costs determined, the business partners could be eligible for up to $100,000 in grant money through the city's redevelopment authority.

The owner of Alpine Drafting, Stewart was raised in Carson City. He is single and has two children. Robert is 15 and Sharaya, 13.

Johnson has lived in Carson City since 1985 and works for Sysco Food Services in grocery sales. He and his wife Diana have a son, 13-year-old Richelle and a daughter, 8-year-old Mikel.