Nearly 10 months after construction began, progress on the Del Rio Trail has reached major milestones.
Instead of dirt, residents near the project can see newly paved asphalt and intersection improvements along a majority of the trail.
City Express checked in with Adam Randolph, senior engineer with the City’s Department of Public Works, to get the latest news since May’s update.
“Five months ago, the bridge over Interstate 5 was just kicking off and we could start seeing grading going in,” Randolph said, who has managed the project through construction. “Now, we’re seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.”
Here’s what’s happened in the past few months:
- Bridge over I-5 nearly complete (final paving and fence install to come)
- Intersection improvement work including curb, gutter, sidewalk and plaza work
- Nearly all paving work complete
Other work is ongoing along the trail, including additional earthwork and paving north of Sutterville Road and a bridge to be installed near Charlie-Jensen Park.
One key step to opening the trail is the upcoming traffic signal work, according to Randolph.
The trail crosses at these points along the 4.8-mile stretch: Sutterville Road, South Land Park Drive, Del Rio Road, Fruitridge Road, 35th Avenue, 43rd Avenue, Florin Road and Meadowview/Pocket Road.
At the Sutterville and Fruitridge crossings, the project will install signals where there previously were none. These signals will be pedestrian actuated for safe crossings.
Additional traffic control will be added at Sutterville Road for visibility.
Once finished, the trail will allow people to access William Land Park, schools, stores, restaurants, retail centers, jobs and other community parks without using a car.
“It’s looking like a complete trail, but it’s still under construction and not open to the public,” Randolph said. “Pay attention to signage and be cautious of active construction and heavy machinery.”
Current timelines anticipate the trail opening in early 2024, potentially February, weather and equipment permitting.
Planning for the project has been underway since 2017. Construction began in December 2022.
For construction information and to sign-up for email updates, visit DelRioTrailConstruction.org.