Victory Logistics District Drives Growth in Fernley
A view of Mark IV, Victory Logistics development with the Polaris factory near the center left of the photo. The 600 acres to the right of that building and south of I-80 will soon be developed as Phase II of the project. (Photo Courtesy of Mark IV)
By Rachel Dahl
The Victory Logistics District, a sprawling 4,300-acre development owned by Mark IV, is gearing up for major growth in Fernley. Rick Nelsen, Senior Vice President of Northern Nevada for Mark IV Capital, shared insights into the district’s plans, prior to the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase II of its Victory Logistics District which is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 28. The project will include industrial and retail development, infrastructure enhancements, and provide a healthy boost to the local economy.
The district, located both north and south of Interstate 80, is primarily being developed for industrial and retail use. The first phase, including four buildings, is nearly fully leased, with Redwood Materials among the current tenants. “We’re working with brokers and expect all buildings to be leased within the next two months,” Nelsen said.
A critical infrastructure project underway is the Nevada Pacific Parkway, which will connect Interstate 80 to Highway 50. This project, funded by a federal Department of Transportation BUILD Grant (Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development) and private equity, involves constructing a six-lane road and a bridge over the railroad. “We’re collaborating with the Department of Transportation, the City of Fernley, and other stakeholders to meet all required standards,” Nelsen explained.
The development is currently in its first phase, with land near the railroad being prepared for two food-grade companies expected to begin construction in 2027. Additionally, several retailers have purchased land along the freeway, and are poised to break ground soon. “Our groundbreaking ceremony on the 28th will kick off Phase Two, adding another 600 acres to the project,” Nelsen said.
Phase Two involves significant earth-moving and infrastructure work, including five miles of paved roads, six miles of storm drains, and five miles of water lines. Nelsen emphasized the scale of the work: “We’re moving nearly three million cubic yards of earth—that’s about 880 Olympic swimming pools.”
The district has also named three new roads—Connor Drive, Innovation Drive, and Technology Boulevard—hinting at the tech-forward vision for the area. This infrastructure will support around 1,000 acres of development, benefiting both industrial and retail projects.
NV Energy is planning to build a substation in the district to connect transmission-level power, adding to the infrastructure enhancements. “Fernley is going to see a lot of activity,” Nelsen noted. “This growth equates to jobs, and jobs bring people, which increases the population.”
Projections suggest Fernley could gain as many as 25,000 new residents by 2040, a significant increase that will drive demand for housing, retail, schools, and municipal services. To accommodate this growth, Mark IV is working on a North Fernley plan that includes retail and residential development, aiming to complete the development plan within a year.
The project is expected to provide a major economic boost to Fernley, with Governor Joe Lombardo scheduled to speak at the groundbreaking event. “This is an economic boom for Northern Nevada,” Nelsen said. “Fernley is at the center of it.”
Beyond industrial and retail projects, the North Fernley plan could include a high school, regional hospital, and small businesses. Mark IV is collaborating with Lyon County Schools and other partners to establish a workforce development center, offering vocational training in fields such as electrical work, masonry, and welding.
“We’re committed to supporting the community,” Nelsen said. “By partnering with Western Nevada College and the University of Nevada, Reno, we’re creating opportunities for local students to gain valuable skills.”
Mark IV is also navigating the complex process of coordinating with federal and state agencies, including the Public Utilities Commission and Union Pacific Railroad. “There’s a lot of coordination involved, but it’s all about keeping the project on schedule and meeting all requirements,” Nelsen explained.
Environmental considerations are also a priority, with Mark IV working closely with the Bureau of Land Reclamation and the Department of Agriculture. “We’re ensuring proper drainage and environmental standards are met,” he said.
With the ongoing development, Fernley residents can expect transformative changes, from new infrastructure to increased job opportunities. Nelsen concluded, “It’s an exciting time for Fernley. We’re here for the long haul, and we’re looking forward to contributing to the community’s growth and success.”
