Reno
History
The township
of Reno was founded in 1868 when Myron Lake, landowner and
entrepreneur, offered 80 acres of his land as a town site to the
Central Pacific Railroad in exchange for a train station at his
crossing. Within a month, trains were running six days a week through
Reno, a depot hotel was opened for business and a post office was
established. Lake's Crossing was the first name for the Reno area. In
1903, Reno was incorporated, named after Civil War General Jesse Reno.
In 1928, Reno celebrated the completion of the transcontinental highway
system by revealing the first lighted "Biggest Little City in the
World" arch. Once known for its ability to offer "quickie" divorces,
Reno is now a hot spot for marriages, and many people travel here to
initiate their nuptials.
Today the Reno area is known for
more than just world-class entertainment, excellent dining, and
exceptional weather. It's also famous for being one of the nation's
most desirable places to reside. With a tax and business climate as
agreeable as the weather itself, it's no wonder so many individuals and
companies are moving to the area.
Physical Environment
Located
in the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, and minutes away from Lake
Tahoe, the Reno community sits at 4,500 feet above sea level and is
surrounded by natural beauty and limitless recreational opportunities.
The Reno region has access to over 16 alpine ski resorts and over 40
golf courses.
Business Environment
The
Reno area sees an average of 6,000 new jobs per year, and wages outpace
inflation by 13 percent. Thirty-three Fortune 500 companies have a
significant presence in Northern Nevada. These companies represent a
range of top multi-national brands that have chosen Reno/Sparks/Lake
Tahoe to do business because of Nevada's tax-friendly environment and
unparalleled quality of life.
Climate
While
a summer afternoon high may exceed 90 degrees, a light jacket or
sweater is often needed after sunset. Nights with low temperatures over
60 degrees are rare. Afternoon temperatures in the winter are moderate.
This mild climate and abundant sunshine allows for full time access to
recreation and makes Reno an attractive year-round destination.
Notable Rankings
- Ranked 2 as the "Best State for Business" (Chief Executive Magazine 01/01/06)
- Ranked 3 among the "Best Places to Live" (Men's Journal 03/16/05)
- Ranked top 3 "Hot Residential Markets" (Forbes Magazine 03/01/04)
- Ranked 3 in the nation for "Growth in Women-owned Firms" (Center for Women's Business Research (04/28/04)
- Ranked in the top 5 "Best States for Business"
(Development Counselors of New York 09/20/05)
- Ranked 21 in the "Best Performing Cities" (Milken Institute 02/01/2006)
Population
Reno: 180,480
Sparks: 66,346
All of Washoe County: 333,486
Elevation
Reno
is at an elevation of 4,400 feet (1,341 meters) above mean sea level.
To the West, the Sierra rises from elevations of 9,000 feet (2,743
meters) to 11,000 feet (3,352 meters) feet. Lower mountains to the East
reach 6,000 feet (1,828 meters) to 7,000 feet (2,133 meters).
Size
Total Area: 85 square miles