Elk Grove residents and commuters should prepare for major traffic disruptions as the city launches two significant construction projects, one of which will last into early 2025. The first blow comes from the Sacramento Area Sewer District, which began closing the northbound lanes of Franklin Boulevard starting Tuesday evening, to make way for a large water pipeline construction effort. As reported by ABC10, the thoroughfare between Sims Road and Laguna Boulevard will see these northbound closures extend to early 2025.
To somewhat alleviate the congestion, traffic will be shifted to the southbound lanes on the west side of Franklin to maintain two-way flow, with a single lane dedicated for each direction. Yet, expect to be caught in delays or, alternatively, seek out other routes if possible. Concurrently, Union Pacific is also gearing up to start extensive repair work on the railroad crossing at Bond Road, calling for a full closure from Saturday to Monday, details provided by the ABC10 report. Commuters using this passage should plan extra travel time and consider detours onto Elk Grove Boulevard or Sheldon Road for the weekend.
The prevailing water pipeline project, known as Harvest Water, is aimed at delivering recycled water to agricultural lands and habitats within southern Sacramento County, with an eye on bolstering groundwater levels and ensuring water sustainability. Specifics on the project scope and impacts on road access within Elk Grove, available through a CBS News Sacramento report, indicate lane closures started impacting drivers as early as Tuesday morning along Franklin Boulevard.
It seems the city is willing to endure immediate disruptions to eventually secure drought-resistant recycled water sources. Quoted by CBS News Sacramento, the construction is scheduled to complete physically by 2026, with the system expected to be fully operational come 2027. Questions about the construction and its schedule can be directed to the Sacramento Area Sewer District's hotline, and local residents will be able to access their properties at all times throughout construction. For an extensive map of the construction and related closures, information is available on the city’s website. As road closures are subject to change, staying informed on these projects is advised for all affected residents and visitors.
