Sacramento County, July 30, 2025
News Summary
Sacramento County officials urge caution as construction commences on the Watt Avenue Complete Street Improvements project. This initiative aims to enhance safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians along Watt Avenue. Key upgrades include repaving the road, improving sidewalks, and creating dedicated bicycle lanes. While local businesses report a decline in traffic during construction, improvements are expected to benefit them in the long run. The project, initially set for completion in February 2026, is now anticipated to finish by late 2023.
Sacramento County officials are emphasizing the need for caution as a significant construction project gets underway along Watt Avenue. The Watt Avenue Complete Street Improvements project, which commenced in March, is designed to enhance public safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians along the critical corridor between Orange Grove Avenue and Roseville Road.
This project includes major improvements such as repaving sections of Watt Avenue, upgrading sidewalks, and establishing dedicated bicycle lanes. The goal is to create a safer environment for all users of the road, responding to previous safety concerns identified by the Department of Transportation in 2019. Watt Avenue is noted as one of the busiest routes in Sacramento County, facilitating approximately 53,000 vehicles daily.
Local businesses are affected by the ongoing construction. For instance, Furniture Mart’s business manager reported a noticeable decline in customer traffic, yet he remains hopeful that the improvements will ultimately benefit them in the long run. Other drivers have indicated that commute times are slower during construction but believe the upgrades will lead to better road conditions.
Motorists are urged to pay close attention to road signs and the activities of construction crews to navigate safely through the area. The project was initially expected to conclude in February 2026, but crews are now optimistic about completing it by late 2023. In addition to the Watt Avenue project, the South Watt Avenue Improvement Project is also currently underway, enhancing infrastructure across the county.
Moreover, a separate project aims to replace the Arcade Creek Bridge on Auburn Boulevard, which has been classified as functionally obsolete. This bridge replacement has been in the planning stages for over ten years and is predominantly financed through a $9.2 million federal grant, along with contributions from the city and county. The new bridge will feature increased dimensions, including a width of 100 feet, a second left-turn lane, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes.
To minimize disruption during summer break for American River College students, a small section of Auburn Boulevard will be closed for approximately three months following Memorial Day. Detours will redirect drivers to Highway 244, connecting with Interstate 80, the Capital City Freeway, and Watt Avenue, ensuring that traffic flow is maintained in surrounding areas.
The Watts Avenue Complete Streets Project is a vital part of broader efforts to improve safety following a series of serious accidents reported in recent years. Sacramento County officials remain committed to enhancing roadway safety for everyone, building on the foundations laid by earlier project assessments and community feedback.
FAQ
What improvements are being made on Watt Avenue?
The Watt Avenue Complete Streets project includes repaving road sections, enhancing sidewalks, and creating dedicated bicycle lanes to improve safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
When is the Watt Avenue project expected to be completed?
The project, which began in March, is now projected to be completed by late 2023.
How will businesses be affected during the construction?
Local businesses, such as Furniture Mart, have reported a decrease in customer traffic due to construction but are optimistic about the resulting upgrades.
Key Features of Watt Avenue Improvement Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Watt Avenue Complete Street Improvements |
| Construction Start Date | March 2023 |
| Project Completion Date | Expected by late 2023 |
| Safety Enhancements | Dedicated bike lanes, improved sidewalks, repaving |
| Daily Traffic | Approximately 53,000 vehicles |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KCRA: Watt Avenue Construction Impacts Sacramento Businesses
- Sacramento Bee: Transportation News
- KCRA: Groundbreaking Held for Watt Avenue Safety Improvements Project
- Google Search: Watt Avenue construction Sacramento
- Sac Observer: Sacramento County Homelessness Center
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Watt Avenue construction
