Big changes are headed for Franklin Boulevard, with an extensive effort kicking off in April that promises better safety and connectivity. Affected stretches will run from the intersection of Franklin Boulevard and Sutterville Road, moving south toward 32nd Avenue, aiming for completion in early 2026. The initiative encompasses a broad range of enhancements, all zeroing in on creating a thoroughfare that’s more accommodating for everyone.
According to information from Sacramento City Express, the Franklin Boulevard Complete Street Project will bring in reduced lanes to diminish vehicle speeds, protected bike lanes, improved pedestrian lighting, and advanced crosswalks. The sidewalks will be wider, and new trees will be planted to offer shade along the route. The rationale, traffic calming lies at the core of safety measures, with a splash of environmental concern and strides toward sustainability.
Mayor Kevin McCarty weighed in, celebrating Franklin Boulevard's cultural richness and diversity. "This project builds on past investments, going beyond road safety to build environmental sustainability, more housing, and community health,” he said, “helping address a legacy of redlining, inequity, and inaccessibility." His sentiments were echoed by District 5 Councilmember Caity Maple, noting the project's significance extends past the safety, signifying respect for the community's heritage and spirit, as per the Sacramento City Express website.
Senior Engineer Megan Johnson detailed the expected perks, “By transforming this high-speed roadway into a main street that’s easy, for families to walk and ride bikes, we are creating a more welcoming and connected neighborhood.” Commuters should brace for some inconvenience; traffic on Franklin Boulevard will be pinched to a single lane in each direction during the construction phase. Drivers are advised to note all detour signs and predict likely delays when passing through, according to the Sacramento City Express.
Among the anticipated disruptions: lane shifts, temporary sidewalk and ramp closures albeit with alternative pedestrian routes kept open, noise from the construction, and constraints on street parking. George Reed, Inc. snagged the construction contract, backed by a medley of funding sources. This includes federal grants like the $9.3 million from the state’s Active Transportation Program and $8.3 million from the Sacramento Area Council of Governments, with an extra $750K sourced locally from the Sacramento Transportation Authority.
Project updates will be posted regularly on the website, and email subscriptions are available for those who want to stay informed. For questions during construction, residents can call the project hotline at (916) 226-1585 or email [email protected].
