TRPA considers amending rules for research groups

Thursday, June 25, 1998 | 4:15 a.m.

A new "public use" status would change a policy of putting building projects from research groups not associated with a university or college in the same category with professional offices utilizing commercial floor space.

With strict TRPA regulations on new or expanded buildings, the current requirements make it tough for new research entities to become established here.

A representative for the Tahoe Basin Research Institute says the public-use status will figure in a move by the nonprofit foundation that could bring in more than $1 billion for environmental research.

"In our executive summary we have clearly indicated the goals for the Tahoe Basin," said Bill Manack. "In 1999, we will be able to bring in $1 billion in private funding, $38 million of which has already been approved."

The institute already has agreed to purchase the Logan Shoal's Marina and adjacent land on Tahoe's east shore. Manack said the facility would be extensively remodeled and would be limited to researchers.

The TRPA also was contacted by the Desert Research Institute and the Tahoe Research Group, two entities that would also like to see the public use designation granted.