The City of Sacramento’s Department of Public Works is preparing to begin construction on a major project that will transform Franklin Boulevard in the North City Farms neighborhood.
The Franklin Boulevard Complete Street project was initiated from a grassroots effort, led by the Franklin Boulevard Business Association, which identified a need for calmer traffic, bike lanes and sidewalks that are comfortable for families, and trees to provide shade from the hot Sacramento sun.
Efforts for this plan began in 2016 and included robust engagement with residents and community leaders, resulting in a project that will contribute to improving safety for all users traveling along the roadway.
“Franklin Boulevard has a lot of great amenities for families, including restaurants, shops, La Superior and La Esperanza markets, La Familia Counseling Center’s abundant services, and the nearby Ethel Phillips Elementary School, but the current street feels uncomfortable and unsafe to travel along – especially by foot or bike,” said Senior Engineer Megan Johnson. “This project will make Franklin Boulevard better suited for the community it serves.”
The project is located on Franklin Boulevard between 12th Avenue and 32nd Avenue and will reduce vehicle lanes from four lanes to two lanes (keeping the center turn aisle). This will calm traffic and provide space for protected bikeways, with raised concrete islands providing separation between people on bikes or scooters and moving cars.
The project will also resurface the roadway, reconstruct and widen sidewalks, plant trees and landscaping, and install new streetlights and pedestrian lighting.
Sacramento City Council this week approved to award the contract for a construction management consultant team, and to transfer the federal and local funds for the project
The Franklin Boulevard Complete Street project has been awarded several federal grants for construction, including $9.3M through the state’s Active Transportation Program, $8.3M through the Sacramento Area Council of Governments’ transportation funding programs; and $750K of local funds through the Sacramento Transportation Authority.
The project is currently being advertised for construction bids, with construction anticipated to begin this fall and continue through 2025.
