A stretch of Lemmon Drive could soon look very different, and the public is being asked to take a look and speak up before decisions are final.

The Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Washoe County and the Nevada Department of Transportation have prepared an Environmental Assessment for the Lemmon Drive Traffic Improvements and Resiliency Project, a plan focused on safety and keeping the road open during flooding.

The assessment is now open for public review as part of a formal hearing process.

The project would realign and reconstruct Lemmon Drive between Fleetwood Drive and Ramsey Way.

Plans call for raising the road above the 100-year floodplain to improve safety, connectivity, and reliability during extreme weather.

The work is intended to protect a key route used by nearby homes and businesses and to reduce flooding-related closures.

"This project represents a significant investment in our community's long-term safety and mobility,"  said Bryan Byrne, P.E., RTC Project Manager. "By realigning Lemmon Drive above flood levels, we're not only improving traffic flow and safety, but also ensuring this vital corridor remains accessible during severe weather events."

People can take part in the public hearing in two ways. A virtual option is available at all hours from February 5 through March 9, at NorthValleysImprovements.com, where the Environmental Assessment can be reviewed and comments submitted.

An in-person hearing is scheduled for Thursday, February 19, at Lemmon Valley Elementary School, 255 W. Patrician Drive, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with a formal presentation at 6 p.m.

The study was completed to meet National Environmental Policy Act requirements and looks at potential environmental impacts tied to the project. Feedback gathered during the comment period will help guide final design and construction.

Public comments will be accepted through March 9 at 5 p.m. Comments can be submitted online at NorthValleysImprovements.com, by email to bbyrne@rtcwashoe.com, with the subject line Lemmon Drive Project Comments, or by mail to Bryan Byrne, P.E., RTC Project Manager, 1105 Terminal Way, Reno, NV 89502.

More information is available at RTCWashoe.com.