In the northwest corner of Reno, you can find the N letter across from Rancho San Rafael park and the neighborhood just behind it. For me, the neighborhood is the perfect blend of nature and city life–trails just blocks away and downtown Reno 15-minutes away by bike.
In the early morning lights, I’m reminded of what’s at stake with the Ventana Ridge Housing Development planned just north of Peavine Pines Court. Last year it was approved by the Reno Planning Commission, and neighbors here fear for what’s next.
The new housing complex is set to have more than 60 units, and we worry how it will affect our serene surroundings. The arrival of excavators and bulldozers has become a nuisance. What was once my main entrance to a hike with my dogs has become a fenced off area for construction.
Other residents and myself are also concerned about what will happen to the natural habitat and how it will be affected by new construction.
When I first moved to the neighborhood, I would always see cotton tails or jack rabbits on the trails. I would even spot coyotes regularly, but now I consider it a rare and lucky occurrence.
I often think about Reno development and how it affects the people around us. I think that’s at the forefront of most people’s minds, but what about the animals and our natural habitat? Reno is in a unique position because it’s still very integrated with the wildlife around us.
As we continue to enjoy these beautiful trails and the luxury of nature, we should put forth the effort to be protective.