Frequently
Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the Lear, from when the public may go inside to how the City is planning for the building’s future. Choose a topic to find what you need.

Historic black-and-white photo of the Lear when it was a church, its facade completed as a line drawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the Lear, from when the public may go inside to how the City is planning for the building’s future. Search or choose a topic to find what you need.

There are currently no plans to allow the public inside the building because of potential hazards from the building’s age, unfinished construction, and interior demolition work during the partial conversion into a theater.

You can view a 3D tour of the building.
The City of Reno approved the purchase of the Lear from Artown in September 2021. The property was transferred to the City in February 2023.
The building’s future use has not been determined. The City is seeking community input on the building’s future, and an economic feasibility study is underway to describe possible uses supported by the community and compatible with preserving the building’s historic character.
The City of Reno expects to announce a Request for Interest followed by a Request for Proposals in 2027. The Reno City Council will consider proposals at the end of 2027 or early 2028.
The current study will provide the community, interested partners, and the Reno City Council with critical and up-to-date information needed to develop a sustainable future for the building.

The current economic feasibility study is funded by ReUp, Reno’s Redevelopment and Urban Placemaking Agency. No funding has been identified for the building’s ultimate rehabilitation.

Yes, the Lear, historically the First Church of Christ, Scientist, is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and the State of Nevada and City of Reno Registers.

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