By Doreen Mack
As a local businesswoman who owned and operated two businesses in downtown Carson City for more than 20 years, I feel that our historic capital city is in danger of losing its unique and hard-won Battle Born history, culture, and heritage.
From 2008-2018, I was founder and president of the volunteer-driven “Downtown 2020 501c3 organization”. We renovated Downtown by removing the freeway and iron fence, added parking, bike lanes, widened sidewalks, brick crosswalks, signage and landscaping, as well as designing Telegraph Square with the 4 bump-out corners to make the historic downtown core a walkable, business and people friendly community.
In 2018, I received the Sierra Nevada “Top 20 Most Powerful Women” award for this work. Now, I’m focused on safeguarding the historic district and have created a plan for the 12-block area currently used for parking lots. Details are available on my Facebook page (Doreen Mack, October 31).
Feb 25, 2025 · HGTV named Carson City the state’s most charming town in America. This was a well-earned status to be proud of.
Plans are currently underway by the Hop and May Adams Foundation, headed by trustee Steve Neighbors, of Boise, Idaho, who owns the Nugget and extensive downtown property. The redevelopment of this property includes two large hotels, two parking garages and a convention center. While I appreciate Mr. Neighbors’ continuing efforts to improve and renovate downtown Carson, I don’t think this large-scale construction project is appropriate because it doesn’t recognize the historic core of our city.
I recommend restoring the original 1950s Nugget as a historic landmark, complemented by enhancements, and developing an independent senior living community comprising approximately fifty homes styled after the 1940s. At the center of the complex, I propose constructing a Western-style lodge that honors local heritage and offers guest accommodations, including amenities such as a gym and spa accessible to residents. The property would also include a miniature golf course and either a farm or petting zoo featuring miniature animals, alongside a caretaker’s cottage. I suggest incorporating a Mini-Ferris Wheel in honor of George Washington Ferris, inventor of the Ferris Wheel displayed at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. His historic Sears–Ferris House, built in 1863, is located at 311 W Third Street in Carson City. This comprehensive concept aims to support local businesses, attract tourism, and generate revenue.
Furthermore, I propose establishing a “Village Market” that includes a grocery and health food store offering fresh local produce, a pharmacy, ATM kiosk, and artisan shops featuring Nevada products. Given the City’s consideration of an initial investment of approximately $20 million in the Adams Foundation redevelopment proposal, I strongly encourage the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors to schedule public meetings promptly to discuss strategies for redeveloping downtown Carson City. With plans already underway, public engagement is both essential and required given their significant impact on the future of our historic capital city.
I have secured the endorsement of Liz Leisek, President of the Historical Society, for this initiative. I’m also considering a potential collaboration with Shari Davis, Rural Community and Economic Development Director at the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), who manages the Nevada Main Street Program for the revitalization of downtown Carson.
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