Before the ice formed and grocery store shelves were emptied, the city of Reno took precautionary measures to ensure its residents had a safe warm place to shield from the cold by opening a warming center throughout the weekend of Jan. 23-25.
Spearheaded by City Administrator Paul Lilly and Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Vogle, the decision to open Reno City Hall for the duration of the winter blast was in conjunction with the Reno Works Program — an ongoing commitment to making improvements throughout the city of Reno.
The warming center was open to all Reno residents and any surrounding neighbors who needed a place to stay for the day or night, as it offered overnight accommodations complete with cots. According to a press release posted on the city’s official Facebook page, with support from the Parker County Emergency Management team and the American Red Cross, the warming center was fully equipped with backup generators, heaters, water, food and snacks. Men’s and women’s restrooms were also available on site.
