SACRAMENTO — A major traffic shift is coming to State Route 51 (Business 80/Capital City Freeway) as Caltrans prepares the next phase of its $239.5 million American River Bridge Rehabilitation Project. The agency announced that northbound drivers will be moved to a new alignment beginning late Sunday night into early Monday morning, marking a significant milestone in the multi-year upgrade.
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The traffic adjustment is needed to provide crews a protected workspace. The final layout will include K-rail barriers along the right shoulder, allowing safe access for workers who are rebuilding the bridge’s barrier overhang and constructing a new multi-use bike and pedestrian path.
According to Caltrans, the switch will occur during overnight hours to minimize disruption. Crews are scheduled to work from 10 p.m. Sunday, November 23 through 5 a.m. Monday, November 24 to implement the change.
The project includes structural and mobility enhancements designed to extend the life of the bridge and increase transportation options for the region. Work includes:
This expanded multi-use connection will improve safety and mobility for cyclists and pedestrians traveling through Sacramento’s river corridor.
Motorists should expect modified access near the Elvas Boulevard underpass and Exposition Boulevard:
To enhance safety, the speed limit in the construction zone has been reduced to 55 mph, and the California Highway Patrol will be present for traffic enforcement. The agency reminds drivers to slow down, emphasizing its standard safety message urging the public to “Be Work Zone Alert.”
The SR 51 bridge rehabilitation is backed by $236.8 million from the State Highway Operation and Protection Program (SHOPP) and $2.7 million from the Active Transportation Program (ATP) to support bike and pedestrian improvements. The project reflects California’s broader commitment to long-term infrastructure renewal, supported through statewide investment initiatives. Residents can learn more about other major transformational projects at BuildingCA.ca.gov.
Covering 4,385 lane miles across 11 counties in the Sacramento Valley and Northern Sierra, Caltrans District 3 manages freeway operations and roadway safety. District Director Sergio Aceves and spokesperson Sergio Ochoa Sánchez are leading public communication efforts for the bridge work.
This traffic shift is a crucial step toward delivering a safer, modernized highway corridor that serves drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. When completed, the SR 51 bridge will offer improved structural resilience, smoother travel, and a new Class I path that expands active transportation opportunities across Sacramento.
Originally reported by Caltrans in DOT. California Government.
