Construction is set to begin in May 2025 on the Auburn Boulevard Bridge Replacement Project, a major infrastructure upgrade designed to reduce flooding, ease traffic congestion and improve safety for all roadway users.
The project will replace the existing Arcade Creek Bridge—originally built in 1927—with a modern structure that meets current Caltrans and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) design standards.
“This project is really about creating a safer and more resilient corridor for everyone—drivers, cyclists and pedestrians,” said Philip Vulliet, senior engineer with the Department of Public Works. “We’re adding continuous sidewalks and bike lanes throughout the project area, which don’t exist today.”
The City partnered with Sacramento County to secure funding for widening the bridge to add a second left-turn lane from Auburn Boulevard onto Winding Way, which will reduce congestion at one of the corridor’s busiest intersections. The new bridge will also be elevated slightly to allow it to remain open during a 20-year storm event, addressing long-standing flooding issues in the area.
The bridge will be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant and feature lighting, and other design improvements to enhance aesthetics and visibility.
To complete the work safely and efficiently, a full closure of Auburn Boulevard will be required between Winding Way and the I-80/Business 80 ramps. The closure is scheduled to begin immediately after Memorial Day and last approximately three months, with the road expected to reopen near the end of August 2025.
Project staff coordinated the construction schedule with American River College to align with the school’s summer break, minimizing traffic disruptions for students and faculty, according to Vulliet.
The Winding Way intersection will remain open during most of the construction period, though short-term closures may be necessary for paving and utility work. Access to the freeway ramps will also remain available throughout the project.
“The construction team will be working extended hours to finish the bridge and reopen the road on schedule,” Vulliet said. “We don’t anticipate night work at this time but if it becomes necessary, we’ll notify the public well in advance.”
The $16.04 million project is funded primarily through a federal Highway Bridge Program grant with supplemental local funds and Sacramento County funds for additional bridge width.
For questions during construction, community members can call the project hotline at (800) 533-9758 or email admin@arcadecreekbridge.com.
For more information, including project updates and detour maps, visit ArcadeCreekBridge.com.
