The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) is planning to update the city’s Historic Resources Commission (HRC) tomorrow on its plans for historic homes on Center Street.
The homes have been the subject of controversy. Historic preservationists want to see them preserved, but UNR, according to sources, is considering moving the homes.
Moving the homes and costs to rehabilitate them were the focus of a UNR presentation to the state’s historic preservation officer in June, said Jo Ann Kittrell of the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
UNR spokeswoman Kerri Garcia said, however, that nothing has been decided.
“There haven’t been any decisions made yet…” she said. “By providing some functional and financial analysis tomorrow regarding our future construction needs and what we need to build out the Gateway area, we’ll address how we think it’s best to move forward and, really and truly hope the HRC will step forward and partner with us for the best possible outcome.”
UNR President Marc Johnson said that the university needs the area for a business building.
Alicia Barber, the HRC chair, said she is looking forward to a productive conversation tomorrow.
“I hope tomorrow’s presentation by the University represents the beginning of a productive dialogue to determine how we can balance the institution’s goals with preservation of Reno’s valuable, and disappearing, heritage,” she said.
The HRC meeting is at 3 p.m. on the 11th floor at City Hall.
