For years, crews have been working on the new I-580 Freeway connecting Reno to Washoe Valley.
You won't see cars traveling down the eight-and-a-half mile stretch of road until August, but it was jam-packed Saturday morning. The Nevada Department of Transportation invited people from across the area to see, walk or ride bikes on the pavement.
Driving down U.S. 395 through Pleasant Valley, it's hard not to look up and stare at the Galena Creek Bridge, but thousands of people finally got to see it up close and personal.
"I think it's a once in a lifetime opportunity to get a chance to come up here and do something that you'll never get to do again," says Thomas Morgan, Jr.
Cars and bicycles lined the freeway, as families explored.
"I wanted to spend time with my dad, wanted to go out riding," says Aimee Ludlow-Karl, who grew up in Reno. "So, it was a nice, new road, good challenge going up the hill."
NDOT knew that folks in this area were interested and excited about this freeway and bridge, but they didn't expect to see this many people show up.
"People are just amazed to come out and not only see the view and beauty, but also what a great freeway this is and how safe it's going to be when it's open," says Scott Magruder with NDOT.
For some commuters though, there are still a few questions and concerns.
"I think the wind would be more of a concern to me than the ice or snow," says Kevin Flynn. "It does get windy through here."
On some windy days, the bridge and parts of the freeway will shut down, but overall, things will run much smoother for everybody.
"All those people that are commuting, going 65 miles per hour, they're going to have a completely divided highway, which is the safest route," says Magruder.
It's safer and you get to drive a little faster than you would on U.S. 395. Good news for those of you with a lead foot.
"I remember having to go through Washoe Valley and worrying about cops," laughs Ludlow-Karl.
Written by Adam Rasmussen
