The landscape of Sacramento's cherished Old Sacramento Waterfront is set to undergo significant transformation if Mayor Darrell Steinberg has his way. The closure of the Rio City Cafe, due in part to expensive repairs for its unsafe deck, has spurred the mayor to put forth a comprehensive modernization proposal. In light of these changes, the mayor envisions a plan that includes repairing the deck permanently and revitalizing the entire waterfront area, as reported by KCRA.

While similar plans previously stalled following the pandemic's depletion of the city's hotel occupancy tax fund, the latest iteration is costed at over $40 million and would be financed by the same hotel room tax. Steinberg defends the plan, saying on KCRA, "We have to look at what is best for the long-term future of our economy, of the waterfront, and at least at least test it out there in the market what we might attract." However, local sentiment is mixed. The region is known for drawing tourists rather than locals, which complicates sustainable commerce for shop owners in Old Sacramento.

A key facet of the waterfront enhancement includes improved connections with downtown Sacramento. Currently, Interstate 5 acts as a formidable barrier, likened to the infamous Berlin Wall, preventing effortless interaction between downtown and the river's edge. An ambitious remedy suggested by economic development director Scott Ford of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership involves constructing a concrete deck over the freeway. Ford's vision, according to an interview with CBS News Sacramento, is to "reclaim over four acres of public space over an interstate highway," thereby opening the door to outdoor events and large-scale festivals, reclaiming the waterfront for the community, and bolstering its presence in civic life.

The mayor's plan for the waterfront spotlights several specific improvements. These include the renovation or replacement of public market buildings for better river accessibility, a new playground with Native American tribal input, creation of public and performance spaces; and a viewing platform to savor Sacramento River vistas. Steinberg also notes this comprehensive project will unfold in phases, spanning several years. Meanwhile, the initiative to span the divide caused by I-5 gains traction, with Congresswoman Doris Matsui's request for $5 million to commence planning. With green infrastructure funds more readily available, there's a growing excitement about the potential to reintegrate severed sections of the cityscape, despite high construction costs akin to those in other parts of the US amounting to $100 million or more.

Some residents, however, express concerns that revitalizing efforts might overshadow the historical character of Old Sacramento. Samantha Pohl, a Sacramento native, encapsulates these apprehensions stating, "I don't think it should be modernized, because, like I said, it really is our history. I mean, you get to see the old steamboat. You see all of our train depots, all of that. It's a really important part of everything we are," in a statement obtained by KCRA.