City of Sacramento Department of Transportation

City reminds midtown visitors about $2 parking

2012-06-29T19:17:43Z

Instead of circling around looking for an on-street parking space or getting a citation for parking in a residential area, the City and midtown business owners want drivers to easily find convenient parking when visiting midtown. Working together, they are renewing an effort to get more people directed to the state-owned East End parking garage.

For a flat $2, motorists can take advantage of all night parking on weeknights and weekends. Bright streetlight banners went up yesterday around midtown directing people to the garage entrance. The parking garage is located on 17th Street between Capitol Avenue and L Street, which is across from de Vere’s, The Firestone Public House and the Mix Downtown nightclub. The City manages the state-owned parking facility week nights from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and all day on weekends.

“It’s a hidden gem” commented Matt Eierman, City Parking Facilities Manager. “We have 600 prime spaces in the garage, and on most weeknights we have just a handful of customers parked in the garage. We believe the uninviting entrance on 17th Street is hard to find. Additionally, the exterior’s design was meant to blend the garage into the ambiance of its surroundings, which obscures it as a parking garage. We have addressed these issues with signage, banners and outreach.”

To address the facility’s lack of identity, the City, the Midtown Business Association, and The Handle District have partnered on a variety of renewed marketing efforts:

 Purchase of streetlight way-finding banners
 Purchase of a Velcro banner to shroud the “employee parking only” after 4 p.m. on weekdays and weekends
 Reprinting and redistribution of postcards advertising the $2 parking for businesses to share with customers
 Encouraging businesses to promote the garage availability to employees as an alternative to using on-street parking
 Providing flyers in parking citation envelopes to remind on-street parking violators in the 17th and L street vicinity of an inexpensive alternative

“Midtown is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, especially in the evening and on weekends. We see increased traffic congestion and competition for parking during those times, with the busiest day of the month being Second Saturday, when art galleries and restaurants are packed with customers. There’s no need to drive around or park in a residential neighborhood where parking is restricted when you can park at the East End Garage for only $2, and still be within walking distance of Midtown’s destination businesses. It’s a no-brainer,” said Elizabeth Studebaker, executive director of the Midtown Business Association.

“We hope people will give it a try and become repeat customers because it’s so easy and conveniently located,” said Seann Rooney, executive director of the Handle District. “We are also purchasing validations to the facility for our employees as part of a new employee parking program.”

For answers to frequently asked questions about parking at the East End, go here.

Disclosure: Linda K. Tucker is a media and communications specialist with the City of Sacramento.

City's Urban Forestry manager garners national recognition

2012-04-24T17:29:09Z

City of Sacramento Urban Forestry Manager Joe Benassini is the recipient of a 2012 Arbor Day Award in honor of his outstanding contribution to tree planting, conservation and stewardship, the Arbor Day Foundation announced today.

Benassini is one of 16 individuals and organizations being recognized by the Foundation at the annual Arbor Day Awards. The ceremony will be held at Lied Lodge & Conference Center, located at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City, Nebraska, on Saturday, April 28. Benassini will receive a Champion of Trees Award in recognition of his leadership in advancing effective forestry public policy.

Under Benassini’s leadership, Sacramento developed a complete street tree and park tree inventory for the first time, and Benassini brought in outside experts to help train his staff to log work hours and tree history. Today, the Urban Forestry Division of the City of Sacramento is caring for more than double the number of trees it cared for just a few years ago, despite a challenging budget environment. The inventory determined that the City cares for some 100,000 trees on its streets and in parks and cemetaries. It has been known for decades as the City of Trees.

“By dedicating his professional life to effective urban forestry and providing vital tree maintenance through strong leadership and strategic policy, Joe Benassini serves as model for tree care professionals,” said John Rosenow, founder and chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation.
Before coming to Sacramento in 2005, Benassini was the City of Folsom’s first arborist from 2000 to 2005.

Since 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has recognized the inspiring and life-changing work of leading environmental stewards and tree planters through the annual Arbor Day Awards.Award winners from previous years include the late Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall, veteran newsman Bill Kurtis, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Mary Kay, Inc. This year, in addition to honoring Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley with a Vision Award, A Legacy of Partnership Award will be presented to the United States Forest Service.

Disclosure: Linda Tucker is a spokeswoman for the City's Department of Transportation.

Citizens speak up about what they love about Sac

2012-04-23T22:04:13Z

The City of Sacramento has released it second installation of the campaign What Do You Love About Sacramento? The promotion is designed to inspire people to recognize what the Capital of California has going for it.

Responses were sent in and edited into the segment at http://www.cityofsacramento.org/loveaboutsac.htm. The City will call for new clips from the community periodically.

In the launch of the campaign on Valentine’s Day, the Mayor and Councilmembers were asked what they love about Sacramento, which is also located on the campaign webpage.

Disclosure: Linda Tucker is one of the City's media and communications specialists.

Sacramento to celebrate stellar year in energy saving projects

2012-03-20T21:46:53Z

Representatives from the California Energy Commission and SMUD are coming to City Council Tuesday, March 20, to congratulate the City for taking advantage of one-time programs that cut energy consumption and sustained jobs.

The commission will present a check to the City Council for $589,200 and SMUD will present one for $465,508. The City received the money through rebate and incentive programs to switch out the lights to the doubly efficient LEDs at the City’s eight parking garages and install new heating and cooling systems at the Central Library, and Samuel C. Pannell Community Meadowview Community Center.

All the work has been completed. Estimated energy savings is expected to range near 40 percent at the library and community center and 60 percent at the garages, amounting to an energy bill savings of nearly $4.3 million over 11 years. The lighting is also brighter and whiter.

In addition to the new lights, the City also:
• Approved two solar power purchase agreements with SolarCity. More than 14,000 solar panels at six City facilities were installed that are capable of generating electricity to power 500 homes.
• Established a private-public partnership to provide commercial property owners 100 percent financing for renewable energy and energy efficiency retrofits.
• Partnered with SMUD on a program to offer small businesses rebates that cover up to 80 percent of the cost of energy retrofits. Ninety-two businesses participated and should see at least a 20 percent reduction in energy bills.
• Streamlined the permit process for businesses and residents who want to install solar projects by converting the fee to a flat rate, as opposed to a fee based on construction value. Shortened the review time for applicants as well.

“Programs like these do not come often and are not available for very long, so we had to hustle to take advantage of such rare opportunities. What we accomplished in 12 months will produce a long-lasting return of investment for the City and pay off for the environment,” said Reina Schwartz, Director of the Department of General Services.

Disclosure: Linda K. Tucker is the media and communications specialist for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City offers 15th year of free holiday parking program to attract downtown shoppers

2011-11-22T06:05:14Z

Downtown, Old Sacramento and midtown shoppers will be offered free parking to encourage people to shop and dine downtown during the holiday season.

The City is offering free parking throughout downtown, midtown and Old Sacramento on weekdays from 4:30 p.m. and all day on weekends as well as two all-day meter holidays on Thursday, November 24, Thanksgiving Day, and Monday, December 26, the day after Christmas.

The program will be in effect in these areas at these times:

On-street metered parking

§ There will be two all-day free weekday metered holidays: Thursday, November 24, Thanksgiving Day, and Monday, December 26, the day after Christmas.

§ Weekends will be free all day from Saturday, November 26, through Sunday, December 25.

§ Weekdays will be free after 4:30 p.m. , including Black Friday, November 25. Prior to 4:30 p.m.meters must be paid.

Please note that the free parking zone will extend from “I” to “L” streets and from Front to 29th streets, and only applies to metered on-street parking spaces. See map.

All other parking violations are still enforceable as posted, such as time limit restrictions, street sweeping and color zones.

East End Garage (17th Street between L Street and Capital Avenue)

The East End Garage, operated by the City on weeknights and weekends, has 600 available parking spaces in the midst of popular midtown venues. Located with an entrance on 17th street between L Street and Capital Avenue, the garage features a $2 flat rate for weekdays from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., and weekends all day.

Disclosure: Linda Tucker is the media and communications specialist for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City begins 2011 road resurfacing work; some streets postponed until next spring

2011-08-19T23:55:42Z

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation is starting road resurfacing work throughout the City to keep the pavement as close as possible to its newly constructed condition. There may be minor traffic delays and inconvenience, however, when completed the streets will be in nearly new condition.

The department aims to resurface every street in the City about once every ten years to maintain the quality of City streets in a cost effective manner with available funds.

This month, work is starting in South Natomas. See the first week’s schedule. The schedule is subject to change. Check to see if your street is going to be resurfaced and when, via a tentative schedule that is posted weekly here.

After South Natomas is completed, the work will move to Land Park, the Tahoe Park vicinity, and finally, the south Sacramento area near the end of September. Nine arterial segments along with numerous streets in four neighborhoods identified in the map, are part of this year’s $1.2 million maintenance program.

Streets will receive one of three types of resurfacing (slurry, micro surface, or asphalt rubber cape seal) depending upon the street condition.

What residents can expect:
Work is expected to take place weekdays only, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the exception of Blumenfeld Drive, Fee Drive, Joellis Way, Tribute Road and 12th Avenue, where work will also take place on weekends. Residents will be notified via a reminder that will be hung on the door three to five days before the street is due to be resurfaced. The door hanger will specify the day work is to be done. Note, before and after the actual resurfacing, work crews may be seen performing other work on the street. Most commonly, no vehicles will be allowed on the street during the resurfacing process and street will be closed for a portion of the day.

Work is being postponed on the following streets until next May. These streets were scheduled to receive an overlay this summer, due to the implementation of a new federal requirement. The new rule shortened the window of opportunity for the City to hire contractors and complete the work during the 2011 construction season.
• Bell Avenue between Raley Boulevard and Parker Avenue
• Stockton Boulevard between Broadway and 39th Street
• South Land Park Drive between 35th Avenue and Moss Drive
• Havenside Drive between Florin Road and Gloria Drive
• Riverside Boulevard between Park Riviera Way and Florin Road
• 8th Street between P Street and K Street
• Del Paso Boulevard between El Camino Avenue and Marysville Boulevard
• Fulton Avenue between Auburn Boulevard and North end of Business 80

For questions about this year’s road resurfacing projects, contact us via 311 or call the Help Desk at 808-7027.

Disclosure: Linda Tucker is the media and communications specialist for the City of Sacramento, Department of Transportation.

New light fixtures brighten dingy City parking garages and cut electric bill in half

2011-08-19T23:46:31Z

The City will reduce electricity use by more than 50 percent in its parking garages by replacing the existing lighting with new light-emitting diodes known as LEDs. The lighting retrofit is expected to save the City more than $1.1 million over 11 years. The new fixtures are being installed at five of the eight public parking garages owned by the City. Making use of a federal Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) from the U.S. Department of Energy that acts as a revolving loan program, SMUD incentives totaling $181,000 and a $289,000 rebate from the Energy Technology Assistance Program (ETAP)* allowed the City to afford the $1.3 million up-front cost of converting to the highly energy efficient LED fixtures. There was no out-of-pocket cost to the City.

The energy cost savings spanning the estimated 11-year life of the LEDs at five City parking garages is equivalent to a cost savings to the taxpayer of $1.1 million and is analogous to the environmental benefit of planting more than 250,000 carbon absorbing trees.

“This announcement is an illustration of how Recovery Act investments are reducing energy use in communities across the country and saving the taxpayers money,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu. “Innovative energy efficiency projects like this one in Sacramento are an important step as we move towards a clean energy economy.”

The more than 1700 new fixtures in the five parking garages will realize a return on investment on average within five years. The LEDs used in the parking garages give off cool, white light and use far less electricity than the conventional High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights. During the LEDs’ estimated 11- year life span they will require little maintenance, while the HID fixtures would have required four or five lamp changes. The LEDs consume 70 watts compared to 210 watts for HID fixtures. In addition the LEDs contain no mercury, as do the HIDs.

Most of the LED fixtures have motion sensors for even greater efficiency. The lights will switch to a lower level when no movement of vehicles or customers is detected, reducing consumption to 28 watts for even greater energy savings.

“From an aesthetic perspective, the lighting also makes for a better-looking garage as opposed to a dim and dingy garage. Cool, white light and less glare give the impression of a more welcoming, safer environment for customers,” said Matt Eierman, manager of the City’s off-street parking operations.

LEDs also being tested in City street lights
Sacramento is one of the first in the region to install LEDs in both mast-arm and historic street lights. The pilot project is underway on Arden Way (in front of Arden Fair Mall), Del Paso Boulevard (at Arden Way), 16th Street (near Fremont Park), Dixieanne Avenue (near Winner’s Circle Park), and Pocket Road (from Greenhaven Drive to West Shore Drive).

The entire capital cost of 200 lights was made possible through the EECBG and a SMUD grant. The lights not only use less electricity, but also last at least twice as long, meaning operations and maintenance staff time changing bulbs will drop as well.

The pilot project will be revisited next year to see if it’s successful. “But so far, the data is promising,” said Sompol Chatusripitak, an electrical engineer in DOT who pursued the grant funding for the garages and the streetlights. ”Assuming a 10 year life, the cost savings in energy and labor is $1,000 per light, or $200,000 over 10 years,” he added.

Should the project advance, the next step is to develop specifications for LED units for future installations, possibly requiring future light fixtures to all be LEDs.

1,000 gift bags to be given to parking customers today
As part of the City’s commitment to sustainability, the City will be handing out 1,000 Just Check It bags to 1,000 customers parking today at the Downtown Plaza Garage East, 597 L Street, which is the first garage to be converted to LEDs. The bags, compliments of sustainability partner CalRecycle, contain a tire pressure gauge and other tools to remind motorists about the importance and benefits of proper tire maintenance – including better gas mileage. CalRecycle is the state's leading authority on recycling, waste reduction, and product reuse. For more information visit, www.JustCheckIt.info.

Disclosure: Linda Tucker is the media and communications specialist at the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Sac native Fran Halbakken takes lead as Downtown Railyards Project Manager

2011-06-23T23:11:28Z

The City Manager’s Office is announcing that Fran Halbakken, a professional engineer who has been leading the planning and policy for the Department of Transportation will begin reporting to the City Manager’s office as the Downtown Railyards Project Manager, effective Monday, June 27.

In this role, Fran will act as the City’s lead on this multi-million dollar project. The Railyards and the future transit facility involves multiple City departments and many external public and private sector partners, stakeholders and financiers and remains the region’s number one priority. More than $200 million of public resources already have been amassed for the first phase of infrastructure and the relocation of the railroad tracks now under construction.

“Its successful future holds billions of dollars of private investment along with many thousands of jobs, economic prosperity and immeasurable intrinsic value to enhance the quality of life in the City and the region. For a project of this magnitude, complexity and import, it is critical to have a high caliber singularly focused executive like Fran leading the effort,” said John Dangberg, Assistant City Manager.

Fran is a 25-year employee of the City of Sacramento. Over the past five years, she has been instrumental in securing infrastructure funding and was instrumental in guiding the transfer of the Railyards property and assignment of numerous agreements to the new property owner Inland American Real Estate.

Linda Tucker is the media and communications specialist with the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Councilmember Steve Cohn to welcome Zipcar exec to Sacramento at company's membership day, April 7

2011-04-07T00:12:33Z

Downtown residents, employees and commuters have an opportunity to learn more about Zipcar membership in a downtown car-sharing program, Thursday, April 7, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cesar Chavez Park at 9th and I streets.

Councilmember Steve Cohn, who spearheaded the idea of bringing car-sharing to downtown and midtown will join Zipcar Regional Vice President Dan Grossman along with other Zipcar staff, interested community members and stakeholders at an information booth at the park at 11:15 a.m.

The membership day is intended to launch car-sharing in Sacramento – an economical and environmentally friendly alternative to car ownership.

Zipcar, Inc., was selected as the City’s car share provider following a competitive bid process last year. The company operates the world’s leading car sharing network with some 550,000 members.

Zipcar will have two cars for use at each of five downtown locations:
• 10th Street at I Street (spaces are on 10th alongside CalEPA building)
• L Street at 11th Street ( spaces are on L)
• J Street at 16th Street ( spaces are on J)
• 18th Street at Capitol Avenue ( spaces are on 18th)
• 28th at J Street (spaces are on 28th)

Please see Zipcar’s Sacramento page for general information about rates and how the program works. In Sacramento, the annual membership fee is $50, $35 for students. Average hourly rate is $8, which includes gas, insurance and designated parking.

Linda Tucker is the media and communications specialist for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City leaders expected to approve agreement to drive car-sharing program into downtown

2011-03-28T16:40:03Z

If the City Council passes an agreement at its March 29 council meeting, the public will see Zipcars available for use downtown – at the Capitol, City Hall and midtown - by Wednesday, March 30.

Zipcar, Inc., was selected as the City’s car share provider following a competitive bid process led by the Department of Transportation last year. The company operates the world’s leading car sharing network with some 550,000 members.

Zipcar is expected to advance sustainability downtown as the program represents an alternative to owning multiple cars per household.

“Vehicle sharing in downtown is a win-win for our city. Not only will it play a role in the future of transportation in Sacramento, but will decrease demand for parking and reduce our traffic and emissions. We thank Zipcar for their commitment and look forward to them bringing efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicles to Sacramento,” said Mayor Kevin Johnson.

Councilmember Steve Cohn was the driver of the car-sharing program, in part, because the program makes midtown an even more attractive place to work and reside. “This program is a key step in the greening of Sacramento and fits our shift towards being a more walkable, transit-friendly and youth-oriented city,” said Councilman Cohn.

The City will save $35,000 this year by retiring five vehicles from the City’s internal fleet. The Department of General Services estimates City Hall employees needing to use a City vehicle for a short trip will rely on a Zipcar instead.

The only cost the City would incur is lost revenue from the 10 metered parking spaces and the cost to install the signage.

If approved March 29, Zipcar will have two cars at each of five downtown locations:

· I Street at 9th Street (spaces are on I)

· L Street at 11th Street ( spaces are on L)

· J Street at 16th Street ( spaces are on J)

· 18th Street at Capitol Avenue ( spaces are on 18th)

· 28th at J Street (spaces are on 28th)

Zipcar staff plan to be out at the City Hall and state Capitol locations to answer questions about the program on March 30, pending council approval. A second membership day is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, April 7, at Cesar Chavez Park.

In Sacramento, the company requires a $35 annual membership fee along with hourly and daily reservation rates to use the vehicles, which include gas, reserved parking spots, insurance and roadside assistance and up to 180 miles per day. Reservations can be made on-line. Members are sent a keyless entry “Zipcard” that is programmed and used to open the vehicle, where the keys are inside. Get Zipcar details.

Linda Tucker is the media and communications specialist for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Region comes together to host event for seniors impacted by recession

2011-03-14T17:59:41Z

More than a dozen local non profit agencies will be hosting an event to connect seniors with the services they need in this tough economy.
With calls continuing to come in, the City of Sacramento, Senior Legal Hotline, County of Sacramento, Volunteer Center of Sacramento and the Ethel Hart Senior Center agreed to host a fifth SENIOR CONNECT for senior citizens – especially those living in and around mid-town Sacramento. Senior Connect will be held Wednesday, March 16, from 9 a.m. – Noon at the Ethel Hart Senior Center located at 915 27th St., (27th and J).

Organizations to be represented at the event include the Society for the Blind, Senior Legal Hotline, Seniors Helping Seniors, Foster Grandparents, 211-Infoline Sacramento, Sacramento Food Bank and more.

There will also be FREE legal consultations by Senior Legal Hotline counselors, FREE groceries, FREE snacks and FREE clothing provided by the Sacramento Food Bank.

Please call Ethel Hart Senior Center at (916) 808- 5462 for more information about Senior Connect.

Linda Tucker is a media and communications specialist with the City of Sacramento.

City examining apparent low bid in $44 million Railyards track construction project

2011-03-04T01:54:34Z

Preliminary bid results indicate that the City of Sacramento and its development partner, a subsidiary of Inland American Real Estate Trust, Inc., have an apparent low bidder to construct new tracks at the downtown Railyards. Three bids were received. The apparent low bid came in at $41 million. The project budget was set at $44 million.

Within the next week, The City will determine whether the apparent low bidder meets all the terms, conditions and specs of the bid and whether the bidder has the overall capability to satisfactorily complete the project. If confirmed, the City Council will be asked to award the bid to the winning construction contractor at the March 22 Council meeting. A ground breaking is anticipated in mid April.

The results are most welcome news to the City as the first round of bids last May came in $12 million over budget. The over budget bids coupled with the property falling into foreclosure under previous property owner Thomas Enterprises, Inc., delayed the City’s ability to rebid the work until January.

The project will place new railroad tracks 500 feet north of the present ones, which stand in the way of opening up the Railyards to the rest of downtown. Work is expected to take a total of two years to complete. With the current tracks out of the way and access to and from downtown provided, the gateway will open for future housing, shops, museums and entertainment venues and for future expansion of the depot into a world-class regional multimodal transportation center.

Work on two bridges that will go over the new railroad tracks began last summer. More project info is available here.

Linda Tucker is the media/communications specialist for the City's Department of Transportation.

City announces where and when to find free parking

2010-11-17T19:58:13Z

Yes, we said "free" parking.

Downtown, Old Sacramento and midtown shoppers will be offered free parking to encourage people to shop and dine downtown during the holiday season.

The City is offering free parking week nights and weekends starting the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 26, through Friday, December 24 in midtown and Old Sacramento. Additionally, as always, free parking, will be available for the first 90 minutes at the state’s East End Garage that the City manages weeknights and weekends.

“We are in challenging times as a City, but we believe it’s the right thing to do on behalf of our downtown businesses, many of which continue to struggle to recover,” said Mayor Kevin Johnson.

The program will be in effect in these areas at these times:
• On-street metered parking – Free on-street parking will start at 4:30 p.m. weekdays and all day on Saturdays and Sundays, Friday, November 26, through Friday, December 24. Parking is free on Christmas Day.
Please note that the free parking zone will extend from “I” to “L” streets and from Front to 29th streets, and only applies to metered on-street parking spaces. See attached map.
All other parking violations are still enforceable as posted, such as time limit restrictions, street sweeping and color zones.
• East End Garage (17th Street between L Street and Capitol Avenue) – The City also has free parking for the first 90 minutes at the East End Garage and $1 per hour thereafter, up to a maximum of $5. The free parking is available during the times the City manages the facility - weeknights 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and all day on weekends.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Get set to Rally for the Alley

2010-11-10T00:37:25Z

City representatives, Councilmember Steve Cohn, midtown businesses and organizations are inviting the public to celebrate surface and utility improvements to an alley, which will pave the way for mixed use development and promote the untapped potential of alleys.

The Rally for the Alley – grand opening event for a pilot alley improvement project, with music, children’s activities, exhibits and light refreshments is set for Saturday, November 13, 4-6 p.m. (dedication at 5 p.m.), at the alley between 17th and 18th streets and L Street and Capitol Avenue. $2 flat rate parking is available at the East End Garage on 17th Street between L Street & Capitol Avenue (entrance just west of the alley).

Mayor Kevin Johnson, Councilmember Steve Cohn, the City’s Department of Transportation, the Department of Utilities, the non profit Alley Activation Alliance and midtown businesses and developers will all be part of the celebration to hail a successful private/public partnership that has transformed a back alley into what's hoped will be a case study for a green and smart revitalization of the City’s 41 alleys.

Under the leadership of Councilmember Cohn, the Alley Activation Alliance was formed to coordinate a private and public partnership to pool funds for the project. The project included replacement of a deteriorated 100-year-old water main and 100-year-old sewer main, along with maintenance holes, drain inlets, sewer and water services, and fire hydrants

The resurfacing included replacing the rutted asphalt concrete pavement with permeable concrete pavers, which reduces the volume of storm water runoff and drainage problems. Also added are solar lights and planters.
The total project cost is approximately $455,000, paid for with water and sewer funds; a $100,000 block grant from the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency; $7,000 in local transportation funds; $13,000 from the Councilmember’s discretionary funds; $20,000 from the Midtown Business Association and $5,000 from Stitch Development.

On Tuesday, November 16, the City Council will consider a proposal to rename the alley “Liestal Row,” after the Swiss hometown of Sacramento’s founder John Sutter. *

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Smart technology to be added to 74 signalized intersections in City

2010-09-20T21:46:34Z

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation is starting this week to improve traffic flow along 22 miles of the City’s busiest routes. The department’s traffic engineering division secured $2.8 million in state proposition 1 B funds earlier this year to make the project possible - the largest signal coordination project in at least the last decade.

“These six corridors carry a significant amount of traffic within the City of Sacramento and are an important part of the City’s transportation system. Upgrading these routes with technology to better coordinate traffic signals will improve safety, lessen travel times and ultimately reduce green house gas emissions,” said Hector Barron, the City’s Traffic Engineer.

The work will start the week of September 20 on Power Inn Road from Berry Avenue to Fruitridge Road and progress to the following five corridors in this order:
• Pocket/Meadowview/Mack Road from Greenhaven Drive to Highway 99
• West El Camino Avenue from Orchard Lane to American Avenue
• Florin Road from South Land Park Drive to Luther Drive
• Fruitridge Road from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to Florin-Perkins Road
• 65th Street from Elvas Avenue to Elder Creek Road

The entire project should be wrapped up by Spring 2011.

The corridors have been identified as high priority routes to be equipped with fiber-optic communication network that brings live traffic data into the City’s Traffic Operations Center – a facility where staff can monitor traffic and change traffic signal timing remotely to keep the traffic signals in coordination.

There are over 700 traffic signals in the City, 240 of which are in the Central City. The six corridors being upgraded include 74 signalized intersections along 22 miles. All intersections will be fitted with updated or new signal timing equipment, signal controllers, new fiber-optic communication infrastructure and components such as video detection and closed circuit television cameras. The total cost for design and construction is $4.2 million, which makes use of $2.8 million in state bond funds, $1 million in federal funds and $350,000 in local funds.

Other corridors equipped with an intelligent transportation system in the last year include Arden Way from Del Paso Boulevard to Ethan way; Truxel Road from San Juan Road to Del Paso Road; and Richards Boulevard from I/5 to 12th and 16th streets.

Linda Tucker is the Public Information Officer for the City's Department of Transportation.

City drops parking rate at Downtown Plaza West Garage

2010-07-20T21:44:35Z

Customers parking all day at the Downtown Plaza West garage can expect to receive a 52 percent reduction off their all day parking fee. The City’s Parking Services division has reduced its all day parking fee at the Downtown Plaza West Garage for anyone parking in the facility before 9:30 a.m. and leaving after 4:30 p.m. through midnight, Monday through Friday.*

The $7 Early Bird Special is available at the garage located at 325 L Street. Entrances are located at 3rd & L Streets or on 3rd Street near the Holiday Inn.

Other special rates in effect at downtown parking garages include:

• The Old Sacramento Garage at 2nd and I streets, where there is a $4 Commuter Special available for those in by 7:30 a.m. and out after 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.*

• The Memorial Garage at 14th & H streets, where there is a $6 Early Bird Rate for those in by 9:30 a.m. and out after 4 p.m. through midnight, Monday through Friday.*

• The State of California’s East End Garage at 17th and L streets, with an entrance on 17th between Capitol Avenue and L streets, where parking is FREE for the first 90 minutes, $1 each additional hour up to a $5 maximum charge. Since this is not a 24-hour facility please visit our website for specific hours of operation of this garage at www.sacpark.org.

See rates at all City-owned garages and lots.

* The availability of all Early Bird and Commuter Special offers are subject to change at any time and do not apply to overnight parking or on days or hours when the garage facility accommodates special event parking. (Early Bird or Commuter Special signage will be removed from the entrance on the days when the offer is not available.) No discounts, coupons or validations are accepted with these rates.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Survey released about need for Sacramento River crossings

2010-06-15T18:50:20Z

The cities of Sacramento and West Sacramento want to hear from the public about what kind of new Sacramento River crossing or crossings are needed, and where might one or more be located. A non scientific survey is being launched today as part of the Sacramento River Crossings Study. The survey will accept one respondent per computer, through June 24. Survey results will be made available in mid July.

“The nine-question survey will take just a few minutes to complete, but we believe it will yield a wealth of insight. For example, what kind of crossing is envisioned to address riverfront development on both sides of the river? Is the need best addressed by building one or more new facilities? Should a new structure be dedicated to public transit and bicycles/pedestrians or cars or all of the above modes? Where should it be located?” explained Fran Halbakken, the department operations manager. “That’s what we are exploring with the public.”

The planning study, which kicked off in April with the formation of a stakeholder advisory committee is being conducted by the cities of Sacramento and West Sacramento. The study is examining what, when, where, why, and how new crossings might provide better connectivity between the two communities. The study will evaluate a variety of alternatives, from a “no build” option to multiple potential crossing facilities and locations. The project will result in a final report to the Mayor and City Council in December.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Ground broken on bike and pedestrian bridge over I-80

2010-06-05T19:40:08Z

Councilmember Ray Tretheway, and community members unofficially started construction of
a bridge over Interstate 80 just for walkers, runners and bicyclists. Construction of the City’s 40th pedestrian and bicycle overcrossing gets underway in the next few weeks. A brief event was held at the construction site behind the University of Phoenix in Natomas on Gateway Oaks Drive.

“This is a fantastic day for Natomas. We are going to be able to do away with the distinction of ‘north’ and ‘south’ Natomas as soon the two will be united by this bridge,” said Councilmember Tretheway.

When completed next summer, the bridge will enable the non motoring public to connect North and South Natomas and make for a safer, faster bicycle commute to downtown. The project includes a nearly two-block-long structure over the freeway and an at-grade level bridge across the West Drainage Canal along with new connections to existing bike trails. Most of the funding, nearly 90 percent of the $6.1 million project, comes from federal grants, with the remainder from state and local gas and sales tax funds.

Background
 The City was awarded the title of a bronze level distinction as a Bicycle Friendly City by the League of American Bicyclists in 2006. We are committed to obtaining a gold level.
 Additionally, Sacramento in recent years has sought recognition as one of America’s most walkable cities.
 The I/80 Bike and Pedestrian Bridge Overcrossing is one of five projects in 2010 that the City is starting, if not completing, that will specifically benefit the non-motoring public.
 In the last 15 years, the number of miles of bikeways and bike trails has more than doubled. On street miles totaled 121 in 1995, 140 in 2000, 195 in 2005 and 270 in 2010. Off street miles were limited to 38 in 1995. The number grew to 42 in 200, 53 in 2005 and 80 in 2010.
 Find bike and trails maps and more information about the City’s bikeway and pedestrian program.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Saturday event to mark start of construction of pedestrian and bicyclist bridge over Interstate 80 connecting North and South Natomas

2010-06-04T00:34:43Z

WHAT: Ground breaking at the site of a long-awaited bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing of Interstate 80, to connect North and South Natomas

WHO: Councilmember Ray Tretheway, community members, City staff

WHEN: Saturday, June 5, 10 a.m.

WHERE: 2890 Gateway Oaks Drive, behind the University of Phoenix

WHY: To mark the start of construction of two bridges for the non motoring public to connect North and South Natomas and make for a safer, faster bicycle commute to downtown. The project includes a nearly two-block-long bridge over the freeway and an at-grade level bridge across the West Drainage Canal along with new connections to existing bike trails. Most of the funding, nearly 90 percent of the $6.1 million project, comes from federal grants, with the remainder from state and local gas and sales tax funds.

To keep updated about traffic impacts during construction, sign up to receive email notifications of traffic alerts. .An I/80 Bicycle and Ped Bridge project web page will be up soon at the Department of Transportation’s website.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Midtown's residential parking permits to be mailed out by Friday

2010-06-01T23:49:06Z

The City of Sacramento's Parking Division and Revenue Division would like to share an update about expired residential parking permits.

The City is in the process of renewing over 700 residential parking permits for the "K" parking area in Midtown. The current permits expired on May 31. Renewal permits are expected to be mailed out by Friday, June 4.

Residents should continue to display their current permit until they receive the renewed permit. Specifically in the K residential parking area (designated by signage and located in Midtown), parking citations will not be issued for expired permits until after June 20, to allow enough time for permits to be received and displayed. If residents have not received a renewed "K" permit by June 14, they should contact the City's Revenue Division at (916) 808-8555.

Linda Tucker is the Public Information Officer for the City of Sacramento, Department of Transportation.

City readies for rolling street closures and thousands of spectators this weekend

2010-05-13T23:19:45Z

The City’s Police and Transportation departments are encouraging motorists to plan ahead for this year’s
Amgen Tour of California bicycle race, Sunday, May 16. This will be the first year the City will host the
first stage of the race. The event will entail multiple rolling road closures from the eastern city limits to the
Capitol along with significant parking restrictions downtown. For maps, details and parking facilities, go to http://www.cityofsacramento.org/transportation/parking/amgen-info2010.html

Downtown circuit street closures
To facilitate the set-up of the downtown circuit for both the Amgen Tour of California and the
Sacramento Grand Prix, the following streets will be closed to traffic from 8 a.m. Saturday, May
15, to 11 p.m. Sunday, May 16:
• 10th St. from N to L streets
• L St. from 9th to 13th streets

On race day (Sunday, May 16), the following sections will be closed from approximately 9 a.m. to
4:30 p.m.:
• N Street from 9th to 16th streets
• 15th Street from L to P streets
• P Street from 15th to 18th streets
• 18th Street from P to L streets
• L Street from 18th to 9th streets
• 9th Street from L to N streets
• 16th Street from N to L streets

From city limits to downtown – rolling street closures
The approximate street closure time for the following portions of the course will be 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
on Sunday, May 16:
• Jackson Highway from the eastern City limits to Folsom Boulevard;
• Folsom Boulevard from Jackson Highway to Alhambra Boulevard;
• Capitol Avenue from Alhambra Boulevard to 26th Street
• 26th Street between Capitol Avenue and L Sreet
• L Street from 26th to 18th streets, where the race enters its final downtown circuit.

Sacramento Police Department officers expect the above closures to last 20 to 30 minutes at each location.
Officers will allow vehicles and pedestrians to cross the route as long as the lead race vehicle has not yet
passed that particular location. Emergency vehicles will be allowed but local access will be limited.

On street parking will be limited
Before and during the event, on-street parking downtown will be limited as approximately 600 on-street
parking spaces will be posted “no parking” until Sunday evening.
Beginning Saturday at 2 a.m. through Sunday at 8 p.m., parking will be prohibited on 10th between J and N
streets and L Street between 9th and 12th streets. On Sunday between 2 a.m. and 8 p.m., there will be no
parking around the State Capitol and 26 additional blocks downtown. See map.

Nearby garage parking will be available
Starting at 8 a.m., Saturday, May 15th, until 10 p.m. Sunday, May 16th, 10th Street which is one-way
between J and L streets will become a two-way street to facilitate parking at the Capitol Garage. See map
of traffic control plan for Capitol Garage. On May 16, at 2 p.m., the Capitol Garage will be closed to all
incoming public parkers for security reasons and others will not be able to leave the facility until after the
awards ceremony at approximately 4 p.m.
Due to the large number of spectators anticipated, the Department of Transportation also will have staff
monitoring the occupancy of all City garages. As facilities near capacity, drivers will be directed to
alternative parking garages. Parking Services highly recommends using the City Hall Garage at 10th and I
streets, Memorial Garage at 14th and H streets, Old Sacramento Garage at 3rd and I streets, the
Downtown Plaza West Garage at L and 3rd street, the Downtown Plaza East Garage with entrances on J
and L streets and the Tower Bridge garage off Capitol. See map of City parking facilities.

For more information on the Amgen Tour of California visit: www.sacsports.com.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

R Street between 16th and 18th streets slated for improvements

2010-05-07T23:47:39Z

The preliminary design for street and landscape improvements for R Street between 16th and 18th streets will be presented at a community workshop on Thursday, May 13, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m., at the CADA Event Center, 1322 O Street.

The meeting is hosted by City staff and the project team and Councilmember Robert King Fong. Community residents, businesses, property owners and other interested stakeholders are encouraged to attend.

Illustrations of some of the proposed improvements can be viewed on the project webpage in advance at www.cityofsacramento.org/transportation/engineering/RStreetmarketplaza/index.html and comments can be made to the project manager via the webpage.

Public comments also will be taken at the meeting on the Mitigated Negative Declaration environmental document pertaining to this project. The document may be viewed at http://www.cityofsacramento.org/dsd/planning/environmental-review/eirs/index.cfm

The project is part of on-going effort by the City of Sacramento and the Capitol Area Development Authority (CADA) to transform the R Street Corridor into a lively, transit-oriented, mixed-use neighborhood. The R Street Market Plaza builds on soon to be constructed R Street Phase I Streetscape Project between 10th and 13th Streets, and on the safety, accessibility and functional improvements made to the 13th Street and 16th Street light rail stations by the City and Sacramento Regional Transit.

Streetscape elements unique to the area - such as the cobblestone-encased railroad tracks, loading docks and wide metal building canopies - inspire the design for the plaza. Envisioned improvements include:

 A multi-use parking area that can convert into an urban plaza to host festivals and other events
 Canopy trees to shade the plaza/parking to create a pleasant public gathering spot featuring sitting areas and street lights
 A wide, accessible pedestrian pathway to encourage pedestrians
 Drainage improvements
 Bike racks, street furniture and public art designed and installed in future phases

The project is intended to provide urban amenities that will attract private sector investment and support the re-use of currently vacant historic buildings in commercial and retail uses that will bring jobs and services to the neighborhood.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento, Department of Transportation.

Contractors preparing to start or obtain work on Railyards projects

2010-05-06T19:45:39Z

$9 million in bridge construction work to start this month
Moving railroad tracks at downtown Railyards to follow with late June start date

The City of Sacramento and Thomas Enterprises, Inc. are expected to start building bridges over the railroad tracks at 5th and 6th streets this month, as part of the $115 million infrastructure work to take place this summer and fall. Bids for construction of the largest piece of the work, moving the railroad tracks 500 feet north, will be re-advertised as the first round of bids came in $12 million higher than the $45 million budgeted, largely due to added features.

The department will ask City Council on Tuesday, May 11, to reject the bids. Legally, the City cannot award a contract when bids are significantly higher than the amount of funding on hand.

“As good stewards of taxpayer dollars, we are always looking for the biggest bang for the buck,” explained Jerry Way, director of the department of transportation. “First, the complexity of the project requires an inordinate number of specialty subcontractors. Secondly, we asked for some features and enhancements that are ‘nice to have,’ but not critical elements. We are in the process of simplifying some of the items requested or we are striking them for now because they can be added back in at a later phase of development. The benefit is we now know the costs of these items.”

The department expects to re-advertise for bids on May 12, open construction bids first week in June and award bids around mid to late June. Due to the City Council July 4 recess, a groundbreaking event has been rescheduled for Monday, July 12. The change in schedule does not jeopardize any of the $77.6 million in federal or state funding that has been cobbled together for the new tracks, roads and bridges. The new start date also does not impede the overall project’s progress because the bridge work must be well underway before construction starts on new railroad tracks.

Work at the Sacramento Railyards is among the state’s largest public works projects to get underway this summer. Construction, along with the historic Central Shops abatement work total a public investment of approximately $115 million, which should sustain or create nearly 3,300 jobs over two years (according to the FHWA formula of one job per $35,000 investment).

More information on the track relocation project and the planned multi-modal transit facility is at http://www.cityofsacramento.org/transportation/director/sitf/index.html.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Part of J street to convert from one-way to two-way this week

2010-03-15T17:35:39Z

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation is converting J Street from 30th Street to Alhambra Boulevard from one-way to two-way traffic on Tuesday, March 16, weather permitting. The segment wraps up a multi-year plan to enhance neighborhood livability, promote a pedestrian friendly and safe environment, help revitalize the city and support a balanced transportation system. Generally, traffic travels slower on two-way streets than on two lane, one-way streets and also improves pedestrian safety and access for bicyclists and motorists.

Most parking spaces on both sides of the street will be maintained. Temporary striping will be applied on March 16. Permanent striping will be applied when the street is resurfaced along with many other roadways this summer.

The conversions were approved by the Mayor and City Council in July 2007, as part of the Central City Two-Way Conversion Study. For details, go to http://www.cityofsacramento.org/transportation/dot_media/engineer_media/pdf/cctwc_complete.pdf.

The following is the complete list of first priority streets that have been converted from one-way to two-way or from three lanes to two lanes since 2007:

• J Street (30th Street to Alhambra Boulevard, to two-way, to be completed March 16)
• 19th Street (H Street to Broadway, from three lanes to two lanes with bike lanes, completed)
• 21st Street (I Street to W Street, from three lanes to two lanes with bike lanes, completed)
• N Street (21st Street to 28th Street, to two-way, completed)
• 3rd Street (I Street to J Street, to two-way, completed)
• 9th Street (E Street to I Street, to two-way, completed)
• 10th Street (E Street to I Street, to two-way, completed)

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

One block of L Street to be closed during morning and afternoon peak for St. Patrick’s Day block party

2010-03-10T20:49:17Z

The City of Sacramento is anticipating the closure of L Street between 15th and 16th Street for a St. Patrick’s Day event being staged by de Vere’s Irish Pub. The street will be closed beginning at 4 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, through 2 a.m. Thursday, March 18. The south sidewalk also will be closed beginning at 6 p.m. on March 17, with limited through-access maintained by security personnel.

Traffic on L Street will be detoured around the block via northbound 16th Street, to westbound K Street to southbound 15th Street and back to L Street.

The City of Sacramento Police Department will be assisting with securing the event, monitoring and controlling traffic. Electronic message boards will be used to alert the public. All costs of the closure and security are being paid for by the establishment.

LInda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Thousands of jobs coming soon to the Railyards

2010-03-04T23:52:58Z

The City of Sacramento and its private development partner, Thomas Enterprises, Inc., are requesting bids beginning today for a much anticipated marquee project, which will mean thousands of jobs in the area this summer.

The Track Relocation Project constitutes a series of new railroad tracks, passenger platforms, and three tunnels. The request for bid is available on the City’s webpage at http://www.cityofsacramento.org/generalservices/procurement/bids/ under “Construction Bids."

“With this project out to bid, we are looking forward to breaking ground in mid-May on one of the largest public works projects in the state this summer and certainly one of the largest in the City’s history,” said Mayor Kevin Johnson.

The project at the downtown Railyards will require constructing and realigning freight and passenger tracks 500 feet north. The project will also allow more freight trains through Sacramento at more efficient speed and facilitate the expected surge in regional rail ridership, particularly between the Bay Area and Sacramento. With the current tracks out of the way and access provided, the gateway will open for housing, shops, museums and entertainment venues being developed by Thomas Enterprises and for future expansion of the depot into a world class regional multi modal transportation center.

Last month, the City and Thomas Enterprises bid out the construction of two pedestrian routes connecting the Railyards with Old Sacramento and downtown; three bridges over the tracks at 5th and 6th streets; and a construction management firm. These projects, the tracks and other road construction along with the historic Central Shops abatement work total a public investment of approximately $115 million, which should sustain or create nearly 3,300 jobs over two years (according to the FHWA formula of one job per $35,000 investment). Approximately $30 million are federal stimulus dollars. Work on roads and utilities
within the Railyards funded by state Proposition 1C dollars began last year by Thomas Enterprises.

Johnson thanked Democratic Rep. Doris Matsui of Sacramento, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, the California Transportation Commission, Caltrans, the California Department of Housing and Community Development, the Sacramento Area Council of Governments, Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority and Amtrak for helping Sacramento secure the funds for this critical project.

Linda Tucker is the public information officers for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Councilmember Kevin McCarty, City staff and neighbors to open new 'Kroy Pathway'

2010-02-17T21:44:19Z

WHAT: The long-awaited safer passage between a Tahoe Park neighborhood and 65th Street is set to open. The project includes a new wider, concrete paved, well lit and fenced, quarter-mile path between Kroy Way and the 65th Street business corridor, which includes a proposed new Target store.

WHO: City Department of Transportation staff and Councilmember McCarty will be joined by neighbors and other community members who helped make the project possible.

WHEN: Saturday, February 20, 10 a.m., sprinkles or shine!

WHERE: Kroy Way (off of 65th Street) at T Street

WHY: To mark the opening and express appreciation to all who helped with the project. Design and construction of the $385,000 Kroy Pathway was paid for with a federal grant administered by the Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment Agency and funding from Caltrans and City Traffic Safety Funds.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City gears up for bicycle and pedestrian projects

2010-02-10T21:21:21Z

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation will be finishing design and starting, if not completing construction, on five projects in 2010 that will specifically benefit the non-motoring public. Sacramento has a bronze level distinction as a bicycle friendly city and has been working toward qualifying for the gold. Additionally, Sacramento in recent years has sought recognition as one of America’s most walkable cities.

“We are ecstatic that in this current financial climate we have the opportunity to put over 325 people to work leveraging $11.4 million of special funding to enhance our transportation system. With these projects, we are rolling full speed toward our quest for the gold for our great City,” said Jerry Way, department director.

DOT is pleased to announce the following projects slated for this year:

 The Interstate 80 Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge goes out to bid in March. The project will lead to the first pedestrian and bike friendly way to get from north to south Natomas over I-80. Currently to make your way on foot or bicycle involves taking high traffic volume streets and then crossing over the freeway. The new pedestrian and bicycle bridge extends over I-80 to connect with a bike trail along the East Main Drain Canal. Design and construction is estimated at $6 million, funded by federal grants. The bridge is expected to be finished in September 2011.

-more-

2010 Bicycle and Pedestrian Projects - 2

 Redding Avenue Bike and Pedestrian Improvements goes out to bid this spring. The project is targeting Redding Avenue from about 400 feet south of 4th Avenue to Folsom Boulevard, where Redding becomes 69th Street. Currently, Redding Avenue is a narrow, two-lane north-south local roadway in an industrial, commercial, and high density residential area near public transit, California State University Sacramento, the American River recreation area, and the redeveloping residential areas south of Highway 50. There are no on-street or off-street bicycle facilities, designated sidewalks or pedestrian crossings for much of the project. The project will widen the road and add features such as separated sidewalks, bicycle lanes, accessible curb ramps, and high visibility crosswalks. When finished in spring of 2011, the project will provide a safer route of travel for all corridor users, including the large trucks serving local businesses. The estimated cost for final design, construction, right-of-way acquisition, and construction management is $3.7 million. Funds are coming from a federal Congestion Mitigation Air Quality Improvement Grant with a matching grant from the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency. A rendering of the project is attached.

 The Robla Elementary School Safe Routes to School Improvements Project will mean sidewalks, curb and gutter in front of the school at 5200 Marysville Boulevard. Additionally, 24-hour flashing traffic signals and triple-four crosswalks will be installed at Rio Linda Boulevard and Santa Ana Avenue; and Rio Linda Boulevard and Pinedale Avenue. The project will be bid out in early April and is expected to be finished by the start of school. Funded by the federal Safe Routes to Schools program and $10,000 from the Sacramento County Measure A sales tax, the total project delivery cost is $650,000.

 The American River Bike Trail at Howe Avenue Bridge Access Improvement Project will provide safer access from the existing bike trail on the American River levee to the Howe Avenue bridge. Prior to replacement of the bridge railing in 2008, bicyclists could lift their bikes over the existing concrete barrier and onto the existing bridge sidewalk. In the intervening year, the City has been working diligently to restore the access at the public’s request. The project includes removing a section of the railing; matching the bike trail elevation with the sidewalk elevation; adding a segment of new guard rail and new handrail on the bike trails; and installing new signs and striping. Design and construction is estimated at $46,000, which is being paid for with state Transportation Development Act funds. Bids are expected to go out in July, with completion expected by the end of the year.

 Freeport Shores Bikeway The project will provide a safe link for trail users from the Sacramento River, across Freeport Boulevard via a signalized intersection and along the east side of Freeport to the City's Bill Conlin Youth Sports Complex entrance. Bids will go out in October, with the project expected to be finished by the end of the year. The design and construction of this phase is estimated at $1 million and paid for with federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality funds.

In December, a new bicycle and pedestrian friendly bridge at R Street over Interstate 5, was completed. A grand opening event for the bridge and the first phase of the Docks Promenade walkway is set for early April. Additionally, on February 20, an event will be held to celebrate the completion of the Kroy Pathway, which connects the neighborhood to 65th Street.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City crews help keep storm at bay

2010-01-21T00:34:03Z

The following is the latest on the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation's response during today's storm.

We are in the process of closing Raley Boulevard between Santa Ana Avenue & Vinci Avenue due to localized flooding over the roadway at Magpie Creek. We will monitor through the night and reopen as soon as water recedes. There do not appear to be any problems at this time with our creeks and waterways.

Staff responded to turned signal heads at nine intersections today, six intersections on flash, four intersections that lost power, and two street lights knocked down by falling trees. These should be addressed by the end of today.

Weather conditions are subsiding for now.

Urban Forestry received 79 total calls, 40 of which were reports of trees down, some on private property, 31 reports of limbs down or hanging and eight loose trees to be removed. Urban Forestry crews are working today through 6 p.m. and will
have an on-call supervisor and crew on standby this evening.

The public is reminded to call 311 to report trees down or unsafe conditions involving hanging limbs on City trees, or street lights or traffic lights out. Please note the address closest to the reported incident.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City's Department of Transportation.

City finishes makeover of bridge for bicyclists and pedestrians to cross I-5

2009-12-23T00:55:04Z

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation is pleased to announce the recent completion of a new pedestrian and bicyclist bridge at R Street over Interstate 5. An official grand opening will be held in early March when a new 20-foot wide pedestrian and bike path between O and R streets and Pioneer Landing Park along Front Street are finished as part of the phase one Docks Promenade Project.

The transportation portion of the project converted the former California State Park Railroad Bridge on R Street between 2nd and Front streets into a bike and ped crossing by removing all the old railroad tracks, repaving, installing LED lights on the east side, adding lighting fixtures to a refurbished higher railing and hardscaping both bridge entrances. The bridge was acquired by the City from the state after many years of discussions, which ended when the state agreed to trade the R street bridge for a City-owned bridge over Riverside Boulevard.

The bridge is the only non-motorized vehicle crossing over I-5 in the City, north of Fruitridge Road/Seamas Avenue. It provides a much-needed connection between the Sacramento River/Front Street and R Street, which is a corridor undergoing rapid redevelopment.

Work started on the crossing in June. The $197,000 construction cost was funded by state bicycle transportation funds and tax increment funds.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

Vice Mayor Lauren Hammond and City transportation staff throw party for 300 grade schoolers

2009-12-16T17:59:51Z

Fruit Ridge Elementary School will be the site of a free holiday celebration, complete with a visit from Santa, holiday snacks, and fun activities. The after school party, which is sponsored by Vice Mayor Lauren Hammond and volunteer employees from the Departments of Transportation will take place Friday, December 18, from 3 to 6 p.m. The school is located at 4625 44th Street. See map at http://maps.google.com/places/us/sacramento/44th-st/4625/-fruit-ridge-elementary-school.

About 300 community members, children, teachers and parents are expected to attend the event. In addition to a visit with Santa and refreshments, the event includes a magician, HoBo the monkey, face-painting, ornament decorating and new this year – a visit from the Sacramento Rivercats mascot, Dinger.

The event is organized and staffed by City employees who are volunteering their time and is funded entirely through employee fundraisers held year-round by transportation employees, along with a contribution from the Vice Mayor’s office.

This year marks the 12th holiday celebration that City employees have thrown for elementary school children, with the event being held in a different City Council district each year.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City expands pay-by-phone service to more downtown parking lots

2009-12-09T22:27:53Z

The City of Sacramento has gone live with a pay-by-phone service at more downtown parking lots, which will make paying for parking even easier for customers on the go.

The service is now available at Lot D (12th & I St.), Lot X (2nd & N St.), Garcia Bend, and Miller Park parking lots operated by the City of Sacramento.

The new service enables customers who are parking to simply take note of their space number and use their cell phone to pay for parking within a few minutes of parking. Customers can still use the Pay and Display Stations at the lots, which also accept credit cards, if they prefer not to pay by phone.

This same service was launched last summer at both the parking lot in front of the Sacramento Valley Station at 5th and I streets (lot 293) and the jury/courthouse parking lot, 7th and G streets, (lot 297). The City is exploring the feasibility of adding the service to some long-term parking meters as well.

After a one-time account set-up, the system securely stores credit card information and automatically retrieves it during a transaction. To access the system, call 916-SAC-PARK (722-7275), or visit the Verrus website at www.paybyphone.com. The system will also send customers a text message well in advance of the time expiring, so the customer has an opportunity to purchase another block of time remotely. The service provider, Verrus, is charging users 35 cents per transaction.

More information including Frequently Asked Questions is available at www.sacpark.org.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City and Arden Fair Mall prepare for holiday traffic

2009-11-25T00:58:23Z

Department of Transportation and Police helping mall handle hordes of holiday shoppers

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation (DOT), Sacramento Police and Arden Fair Mall management are encouraging drivers to avoid delays getting in and out of the Arden Fair Mall parking lot by taking the mall’s free shuttle, especially during the busiest shopping day of the year – Black Friday.

This year, the mall paid the City to install 10 way-finding signs and employ a changeable message board to alert and direct drivers to Cal Expo where they can park for free and take the free shuttle. “The shuttle has proven to be even faster than accessing the mall parking lot during peak times and cruising for a parking space,” explained Steve Reed, Arden Fair Mall Security and Guest Services Manager. Shuttle information is available under “holiday shuttle” at http://www.ardenfair.com/events.asp?id=36071&start=11/26/2009.

DOT’s Traffic Engineering Division and Sacramento Police have met several times in recent months to coordinate on Arden Way traffic. Last year, the City adjusted the timing of traffic signals and posted signs at the parking lot entrance warning about the fine for blocking an intersection. The fine is $256. These measures also will be in place this year along with enhanced police enforcement monitoring the area to encourage compliance in hopes of minimizing traffic congestion and maintaining safety. DOT’s Traffic Operations Center staff will be available on an on-call basis to assist the mall with traffic control if necessary during the City holiday, Friday, November 27 and throughout the weekend.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.

City offers free parking over holidays

2009-11-19T00:27:28Z

Downtown and midtown shoppers are once again being treated to free parking, and new this year, the City will expand the program to include Old Sacramento and offer free parking in a midtown parking garage.

As a result of collaborations with Old Sacramento and Midtown Business Association, the City is now offering free parking week nights and weekends starting the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 27, through Friday, December 25, 2009, in midtown and Old Sacramento. Additionally, free parking will be available for the first 90 minutes at the State’s East End Garage that the City manages weeknights and weekends.

The program will be in effect in these areas at these times:
• On-street metered parking – Free on-street parking will start at 4:30 p.m. weekdays and all day on Saturdays and Sundays, Friday, November 27, through Friday, December 25.
Please note that the free parking zone will extend from “I” to “L” streets and from Front to 29th streets, and only applies to metered on-street parking spaces. See accompanying map.
All other parking violations are still enforceable as posted such as time limit restrictions, street sweeping and colored curb zones.
• East End Garage (17th Street between L Street and Capitol Avenue) – The City is also expanding the program to include free parking for the first 90 minutes at the East End Garage and $1 per hour thereafter, up to a maximum of $5. The free parking is available during the times the City manages the facility - week nights 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and all day on weekends.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.