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BACKGROUND:
The 63-year-old timber West El Camino Bridge will be repaired in spring and summer of 2008. The bridge crosses Steelhead Creek, also known as the Natomas East Main Drainage Canal (NEMDC) within the City of Sacramento, California. The bridge is located between American Avenue on the west and Western Avenue on the east in North Sacramento within the South Natomas Community Plan Area.
The West El Camino Bridge is a timber structure constructed about 1945. The bridge structure is approximately 40 feet wide and extends 324 feet from levee to levee. The existing bridge deck is over 40 feet wide including two 15-foot lanes, two 4-foot pedestrian pathways separated by a 1-foot wooden barrier. There is no existing lighting on the bridge.
Existing Bridge
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the West El Camino Avenue Bridge Replacement Project?
The project is to replace the structurally deficient West El Camino Avenue Bridge over Steelhead Creek (a.k.a. Natomas East Main Drain Canal) with a new bridge that meets current standards. The new bridge will be approximately 326 feet long and 56 feet wide with two travel lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks and lighting. The crossing of the existing railroad tracks at the east end of the bridge will remain. During the project, drainage and roadway improvements will also be made to both east and west approaches to the bridge.
Aerial photo of project site
How Long Will This Project Take?
Construction will begin June 18 and will continue through the end of the year. In mid-May, the bridge will be closed to all vehicular traffic. Pedestrians and bicyclists will be routed through a temporary structure over the creek.
Construction will take place between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. As needed, construction will occur on Saturdays. The project’s schedule will also eliminate the need for a road closure during high canal flows.
Will There Be Detours While the Bridge is Closed?
Yes. Vehicular traffic on West El Camino Avenue and El Camino Avenue will be detoured to use the Arden Garden Connector for the duration of the project. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic will be routed through a temporary structure.
Download a PDF of detour drawing
What Will the New Bridge Look Like?
The City of Sacramento is committed to improving the safety and accessibility of the bridge. Once complete, the new bridge will offer sidewalks, bike lanes and ornamental lighting.
Download a PDF of the architect’s rendering
How Will the Community be Kept Informed About Construction Activities?
A postcard will be mailed to residents and businesses within the project area at the beginning and completion of the project with additional details. Electronic message boards will be placed in the community in advance of the bridge closure, offering additional information to residents and commuters, including closure dates and contact details. The media will also be kept informed of all closures, schedules and other details related to the project.
This web page will also be updated on a regular basis, so please feel free to visit regularly for project updates.
Who Do I Contact with Questions?
If you have any questions related to the project, please contact the Resident Engineer at 916-870-9070.
How is This Project Being Funded?
The bridge replacement project is being funded with Federal Highway Bridge Program (HBP) funds and a funding match by the City of Sacramento.
Additional information: Mitigated Negative Declaration (PDF).
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