The Eddy Gets Approval From City Council to Move into Downtown Reno

A shipping container park and beer garden called The Eddy is officially moving in to downtown Reno near the Truckee River, after months of opposition for the project. 

On Wednesday night at a public hearing, the Reno City Council heard an appeal of the Planning Commission’s approval of a special use permit regarding the park’s footprint and design. With some changes, they unanimously approved it.

The council addressed concerns from residents living next to the site, while also hearing public comment for people in favor of this project. 

Neoma Jardon, Reno City Councilwoman Ward 5 said, "We want to make sure that we're putting something appropriate in an area with the appropriate conditions to protect the neighbors, while at the same time, trying something in our community that's interesting to have on our downtown core and along the river."

The council unanimously approved the venue with the following conditions: 

  • The venue be open to all ages at all times
  • No smoking or vaping will be allowed on the premises
  • Special activities cannot exceed two days per month; and sound limitations must be improved in advance by code enforcement
  • Revised hours of operation will be 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with exception of special activities, which will be 8 a.m. to 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. 

The council agreed they could make the required findings with regards to the special use permit.

Owners of The Eddy say this is a fair decision and they are looking forward to making the space a family friendly venue. They plan to have yoga and farmer markets during the day. 

Kurt Stitser, the Co-Owner The Eddy said, "That was our original plan for this property. And I think that's how it's best served to the community. "

Alcohol use will start at 11 a.m. each day, ending with their new closing hours. 

Stitser adds that they have been working with the neighboring businesses and residents to come up with conditions to address the ongoing concerns.

Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve cited a similar project in Las Vegas, with a shipping container park bringing success to the community there. 

However, residents living in the Riverside Artists Lofts next to the property voiced their concerns Wednesday night. Issues that came up had to deal with noise and safety. Some people have mixed feelings on the project moving forward. 

Jim Mathewson, a resident at the Riverside Artists Lofts said, "The noise is a big one and just whether it's going to be project we're proud of. I think the community deserves more than this."

Craig Smyres, another resident in the Riverside Artists Lofts adds, "We got a little earlier closing time and I think that will be nice. I mean, it is right under our windows. But I'm also looking forward to having a beer in The Eddy."

The developers agreed to keep the noise level to 65 decibels.

The Eddy will be located at 16 South Sierra Street, on the dirt lot next to the Riverside Artist Lofts. 

The Eddy owners say they are hoping to get their liquor license soon, with a target opening date of early August.Â