A new Virginia Street Bridge is currently being constructed in Downtown Reno to replace the existing one that has been there for more than a century. While this endeavor will produce a new crossing point at the Truckee River that is structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing, existing businesses have been forced to develop new methods of driving traffic into their shared historic building.
The Wild River Grille and Sierra Arts have collaborated to commission a mural that will be painted on the barrier that shields a portion of the restaurant and the front of the nonprofit arts organization from view, in an effort to draw in business through the construction process.
Beginning on June 22, renowned local artists will work with ten students to create the mural, an artistic depiction of the Truckee River, as part of the Sierra Arts’ Public Art Works program, which is designed to teach at-risk youth art techniques, job skills and graffiti abatement.
“We’re working closely with the City of Reno and project managers for Q&D Construction, Inc. throughout the process to ensure things are streamlined and lines of communication are open,” said the owner of Wild River Grille, Chuck Shapiro. “While the project may take some time, we’re confident it will be worth every moment and a huge boon to our city once it comes to fruition.”
Wild River Grille is running a weekday lunch special to encourage afternoon business. The eight-year-old-restaurant’s patio offers a fantastic vantage point of the bridge construction and an uninhibited view of Wingfield Park, the Truckee River and downtown Reno.
Signage for the Wild River Grille and Sierra Arts will be installed on some of the construction barriers and nearby street corners. There is ample parking surrounding both organizations that remains unaffected. Both business will also be hosting July Artown events in an effort to keep the area teeming with life through the summer months. The Wild River Grille’s Summer Dinner Concert Series and weekly Dinner with Your Dog events will help, too.
For more information on Wild River Grille, visit WildRiverGrille.com or call 775-284-7455.
For Sierra Arts information, visit Sierra-Arts.org or call 775-329-2787.
