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Officials In Reno Region Say They Can Handle Growth From Tesla's Battery Factory

RENO, Nev. (AP) - Regional officials say the Reno area can handle a growth spike fueled by construction of Tesla Motors' $5 billion battery factory, but it will involve a hefty price tag with uncertainty over who will foot the bill.

The Washoe County Commission and Reno and Sparks city councils considered Tesla's impact at a joint meeting this week.

The Reno Gazette-Journal reports regional officials think the Reno area is well positioned to provide water and housing to as many as 6,200 new residents by the time the gigafactory opens in 2018.

But officials say the region faces a costly challenge when it comes to sewage, which is already straining its largest waste water treatment facility.

Local officials next hope to address Tesla's impact on the region's roads and school system.

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