A long-awaited replacement for the aging I Street Bridge is closer to reality, as California’s transportation commission is set to vote today on awarding Sacramento an additional $25 million for the project.
The existing 114-year-old I Street Bridge, built in the Ford Model T era, was not designed for today’s traffic demands. The narrow span frequently causes backups, and city officials say its outdated design poses a challenge for modern vehicles.
“It’s very narrow, and if you’re trying to get anything more than a compact car across, it feels pretty tight,” said Phil Pluckebaum, Sacramento City Councilmember, in a statement.
The replacement bridge, which would connect West Sacramento to downtown Sacramento, has been discussed for decades but stalled due to funding shortfalls. Initial cost estimates of $228 million have grown to $320 million amid delays.
The state has now committed $275 million toward the project, with additional local and federal funding expected to fill the gap.
“This is fundamental for our community,” Pluckebaum said. “If we delay even one more year, we may miss our window and lose this bridge opportunity for who knows how many more years.”
Officials aim to finalize permits this summer and begin construction in spring 2026. The existing bridge will remain in use for trains and non-motorized traffic.
Source: CBS News, Sfchronicle.com
