Project: Virginia Ranch Specific Plan
Client: Sierra Southwest Enterprises LTD
Location: Gardnerville, Nevada
Description:
This 226-acre site, located in the southeast area of Gardnerville, includes 715 single-family detached residential units, 304 multi-family dwelling units, a 10- acre school site, an 8-acre industrial site, and 23 acres of commercial zoning for a neighborhood shopping center.
This complex site presented multiple challenges on behalf of the developer. R.O. Anderson planned and proposed a traditional neighborhood-style community, primarily weighted towards small-lot single-family detached housing, with the entire project loaded from rear alleyways. The community was planned to include parkways along all streets and a combination of community and linear parks.
R.O. Anderson was engaged to assess the feasibility of the proposal and prepare a 20-year Specific Plan for Virginia Ranch. During the project feasibility stage, our analysis showed that the County’s existing transportation plan was inadequate and could not convey the traffic load generated by the proposed project and meet minimum level of service standards.
A detailed phasing plan was prepared and included, which identified key roadway and intersection improvements to be constructed with specific phases. This phasing plan permits the owner to record a final map with minimal construction requirements that creates phases as individual, saleable parcels, which can be conveyed and financed separately. We identified and negotiated with off-site property owners for an alternative travel route to relieve potential traffic congestion points identified during the feasibility stage. This agreement also granted the developer vested development rights, which will allow the developer to make financial commitments for off-site improvements without the risk of subsequent growth control legislation.