Planning panel OKs development

RENO -- The Planning Commission has endorsed a massive development north of the city that developers characterize as the first new town in Northern Nevada in 40 years.

The 6,100-acre Spring Mountain development at Winnemucca Ranch would include up to 12,000 homes clustered in three villages, 1.5 million square feet of commercial space and 75 miles of public trails.

The City Council is scheduled to consider zoning for the project when it meets April 23. Approval also is necessary from the Regional Planning Commission.

Opponents have filed a lawsuit to block the project 25 miles north of Reno.