Jacobs Entertainment has officially advanced its multi-phase youth sports development in Reno, securing permits and beginning construction on the first set of athletic fields in the city’s downtown core.
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The project marks a major step in transforming the former Bonanza Inn site into a sports-focused destination. The first four fields—part of a broader 12-field master plan—have now received permit approval, allowing construction to move forward.
Work is already underway on these initial fields, which are designed to accommodate a mix of youth sports formats. Two fields will support 7-on-7 soccer matches, while the remaining two will handle both 9-on-9 and 7-on-7 games, along with youth lacrosse activities.
This phased rollout is part of a six-year development timeline, reflecting a long-term investment in youth athletics and regional sports tourism.
The fields are being developed as part of a larger initiative tied to the Downtown Reno Amateur Sports Association (DRASA), in collaboration with J Resort and Reno Apex. Organizers are planning an extensive tournament schedule, beginning with a 10-week travel soccer season in 2026 and expanding to 12–14 weekends by 2027.
All fields will include perimeter fencing and 20-foot-high nets that can be raised during gameplay, ensuring safety and adaptability for multiple sports. The complex is also designed to support a range of youth age groups, with future plans including 11-on-11 field configurations.
The proximity of the fields—within walking distance of J Resort and adjacent to nonprofit ReDirect Athletics—positions the development as a hub for both local and traveling teams.
While the sports complex is moving forward, redevelopment plans for the Bonanza Inn have shifted. After conducting a detailed cost analysis, Jacobs Entertainment determined that renovating the existing structure is no longer financially viable due to rising construction costs.
As a result, the company is pursuing demolition permits to clear the site for future large-scale development. However, officials noted that timelines for the next phase remain undetermined.
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The initiative is expected to significantly boost Reno’s profile as a youth sports destination, attracting regional tournaments and increasing economic activity in the downtown area. The first tournament weekend is already scheduled for June 5–6, 2026, with continued events planned throughout the year.
Additionally, the fields will support multiple sports beyond soccer, including lacrosse—recently approved as an official high school sport in Nevada—further expanding the facility’s utility.
With construction now underway and long-term plans in motion, the project reflects a growing trend of integrating sports infrastructure into urban redevelopment strategies, combining community engagement with economic revitalization.
Originally reported by 2 News Nevada digital team in 2 News.
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