Grand Sierra Resort Breaks Ground on $435m Arena in Reno

Construction has officially started on a $435 million arena at Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The project is part of a larger $1 billion redevelopment that includes a 2,800-space parking garage, a new ice center for the community, upgrades to the Grand Bay aquatic golf facility, and plans for new housing and hotel expansion.

Good to Know

• The redevelopment is the largest private investment in Reno history.
• The arena will be the new home of Nevada Men’s Basketball, seating up to 10,000 fans.
• GSR expects the venue to host nearly 95 events per year.

Spanning 300,000 square feet, the Grand Sierra Resort Arena will feature premium clubs, suites, and a central plaza designed with fans in mind. Once completed, it will become the main home court for the University of Nevada Wolf Pack basketball team and a centerpiece for entertainment in northern Nevada.

University of Nevada, Reno President Brian Sandoval called the project a defining moment for both the school and the region. He said:

“This groundbreaking signals a new era for northern Nevada and our University.

“When completed, the Grand Sierra Resort Arena will become our region’s most compelling entertainment and sports venue while providing Wolf Pack Athletics with a dazzling home court that will be second to none.”

GSR Owner Alex Meruelo described the groundbreaking as a major commitment to Reno:

“This project represents a transformative moment for Reno and northern Nevada.

Our investment reflects not only our commitment to this community, but our belief in its future as a premier destination for sports, entertainment and hospitality.”

The resort estimates the arena and broader redevelopment will create a direct economic impact of between $850 million and $1.135 billion. Over a 28-year span, overall benefits are projected at between $1.34 billion and $1.8 billion.

Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve also praised the development saying:

“This arena represents the kind of investment that propels Reno forward. It will serve as a source of civic pride and a catalyst for our city’s continued growth.”

Grand Sierra Resort currently offers nearly 2,000 guest rooms and more than 200,000 square feet of meeting space. The property is also recognized as a minority-owned business by the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council.