Dolan shows off new dealership

after nearly a year of development, Dolan Auto Group is getting ready to open its massive luxury Lexus showroom and service facility in Reno.

Dolan Lexus, which is moving south from its current Mill Street facility to 7175 South Virginia St., will help the auto dealer grapple with its growing business as well as expand its visibility.

“It will be difficult to miss our new location,” declared owner Tom Dolan, pointing to the company’s sign which is visible to motorists traveling northbound and southbound on the 580 freeway.

The new business opens to the public Aug. 10 once construction partner Clark & Sullivan does last-minute touch ups at the site where 250 people have worked since the project began in October 2014.

“We’re very proud of it; we can’t wait to open the doors,” grinned Dolan, sweeping an arm over his domain.

The boss of five auto dealerships recently hosted a pre-open glimpse of the 69,000-square-foot facility, proudly pointing out some of the unique features of the dealership, which he said will cost $27 million.

Dolan said the investment, which he is swinging with bank loans, will help spruce up the area between Neil Road and Longley Lane, which he said is already showing signs of commercial revitalization. A former Audi dealership once did business at the 6.3-acre site.

Farther south on Virginia, there are already dealerships open to target Reno’s fast-growing communities of car buyers near South Meadows and Damonte Ranch parkways.

In addition to 5,000 square feet of showroom space, the business will devote 40,000 square feet to a service area featuring 40 service bays, quick lube oil change pits, a car wash and a large photo booth where pictures will be taken of cars and put on the Internet to sell.

Heated driveways will keep ice and snow at bay during winter months.

A concierge desk, coffee bar staffed by baristas, a business center, a variety of lounges, an outdoor terrace and even a kids’ room will be available to customers.

Speaking of the outdoor terrace, Dolan said the space will also function as an after-hours event space that nonprofits can reserve from time to time, eager to give back to the community.

“Coming through the showroom of the dealership doesn’t hurt either,” winked Dolan, ever the businessman and wanting to show off his fleet of new and pre-owned cars.

Dolan said no expense has been spared, pulling a visitor into one of the restrooms, which feature top-of-the-line tile, granite countertops and sleek plumbing and lighting fixtures.

The amenities are clearly designed to drive traffic to the business.

“Lexus (corporate) said one thing: ‘Try to get as close to a Whole Foods Market,’” said Dolan of the prized demographic the car company seeks to reach with sales, service and warranty work.

He also touted the economic benefit of going local with a general contractor, subs and vendors during the course of construction.

“We were honored to be selected as part of the local team to bring this dream structure to life,” said Clark & Sullivan Construction Vice President Doug Browne in a statement. “The Dolans have set a new standard with this innovative Lexus dealerships and local residents are going to notice the personal details and finishing touches.”