Traditions North Development Commits to Permanent Open Space Preservation and Historic Restoration in Dayton

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2026

Dayton, NV — GF Development has submitted plans to Lyon County for Traditions North, a thoughtfully designed residential community that balances much-needed housing with a strong commitment to open space preservation, historic stewardship, and long-term community benefit.

Of the approximately 230 acres that make up the Traditions North site, approximately 80 acres will be permanently preserved as open space. This includes a 10.0-acre land donation to Friends of Sutro Tunnel Charity, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to restoring and protecting the historic Sutro Tunnel—one of Nevada’s most significant engineering and cultural landmarks.

This donation builds upon the charity’s existing 27.94 acres, expanding the Sutro Tunnel Portal Park to 38 acres, significantly enhancing its long-term preservation and public access potential.

Helaine Jesse, Director of the Friends of Sutro Tunnel Charity’s Major Gift Campaign, praised the contribution, stating that she “cannot believe the generosity of GF Development.” She added that preserving the most visually prominent portion of the site, visible throughout Dayton, is “incredibly important to keeping the Sutro Tunnel’s impact on the community intact.” Jesse also noted that the distinctive tunnel soil—often mistaken for tailings—is one of the site’s most charming features and a key reason so many feel connected to the project.

She emphasized that the donation doubles the charity’s footprint, positioning the Sutro Tunnel Portal Park to grow into a site of regional importance.

The donated land will be preserved in perpetuity for open space, historic restoration, and public enjoyment, expanding the protected Sutro Tunnel corridor and supporting ongoing educational and recreational opportunities.

Housing is intentionally clustered within a well-planned footprint, allowing the project to meet local housing needs while preserving open land, protecting historic resources, and enhancing community character.

The project aligns with Lyon County’s long-term planning goals by focusing on development in areas served by existing infrastructure while conserving scenic and culturally significant lands. Trails, natural buffers, and preserved open spaces are integral to the community design.

Traditions North represents a balanced approach to growth in Dayton—demonstrating how housing, historic preservation, and open space conservation can move forward together.

About Traditions North
Traditions North is a proposed residential community in Dayton, Nevada, currently under review by Lyon County, designed to provide diverse housing options while preserving open space and supporting long-term community values.

About Friends of Sutro Tunnel
The Friends of Sutro Tunnel Charity is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to preserving & sustaining the historic Sutro Site, honoring its remarkable mining history while transforming into a vibrant destination for tourism, education, & recreation—a treasured landmark for visitors of all ages & generations to come.