City considers expanding redevelopment district

Saying the corridors into Carson City could use some sprucing up, city officials are looking into the possibility of using a development-spurring incentive program so far reserved solely for downtown and South Carson Street's auto row.

The city's redevelopment programs involve setting aside money created from future property tax increases in specific areas of the city. The money is then used to help fund approved projects in that redevelopment district.

For years, the only redevelopment district in Carson City was the historic downtown.

Earlier this spring, city supervisors approved a second district along South Carson Street aimed at renovations and improvements for sales-tax-generating behemoths, car dealerships, that promise to stay in Carson City.

"We're starting to see some success to retain and grow our auto sector and we recognize our next phase should start getting planned," said Redevelopment Manager Joe McCarthy, adding that establishing more redevelopment areas will likely be a long, drawn-out process.

"It's crucial that we move at a pace that allows for inclusive public input."

The next proposal under study is North Carson Street, extending from downtown to Winnie Lane, including the Northgate Lane area.

"That's due to some concern that that area is suffering from some distress," he said. There are some vacant buildings in the neighborhood and some spots that are beginning to deteriorate.

The North Carson Street area wouldn't be a new district, but an expansion of the downtown district.

The other proposal is a new district that would include South Carson Street to the Douglas County line and Highway 50 to the Lyon County line, the major commercial corridors leading into the capital city.

There are several reasons for renovation-prompting incentives, according to city officials. The incentives make the town prettier by fixing up "any areas of physical deterioration," especially on stretches of road that act as Carson City's entry points. They promote business, adding to the city's sales tax base, and they provide more things for residents to do.

"It's without question that Carson City is underserved in a number of (retail) areas," McCarthy said.

Carson City Mayor Marv Teixeira said he won't decide whether the city really needs to expand its redevelopment districts until McCarthy completes the research.

"I think we need to take a close look at what are the pluses and what are the minuses," he said. "I think there are a few areas that could be helped, but I really don't know."

n Contact reporter Cory McConnell at cmcconnell@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.