Truxel Bridge Project: Connecting Sacramento’s Natomas Communities to Downtown

A long-planned multi-modal bridge across the lower American River, the Truxel Bridge, is progressing towards becoming a reality. The project aims to improve connectivity between North and South Natomas and the central city of Sacramento, addressing transportation challenges and fostering economic growth.

Project Overview

The Truxel Bridge is an engineering feasibility study for a new multi-modal bridge connecting Truxel Road and Sequoia Pacific Boulevard. Originally identified as the preferred alignment in 2013 through the American River Crossings Alternatives Study, the bridge is intended to alleviate connectivity issues across the lower American River.

Currently, limited multi-modal crossings over the American River encourage reliance on driving, contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions, vehicle miles traveled, and reduced air quality. The bridge is also expected to improve emergency response times and facilitate evacuations during natural disasters.

Recent Developments

City leaders recently approved the design for the Truxel Bridge, marking a significant step forward in the project. The project, estimated to cost nearly $300 million, is still in the early planning stages.

Community Engagement

The City of Sacramento hosted a community open house on November 13, 2024, at the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity to present project information and gather feedback. The Feasibility Study, the first phase of the planned bridge, includes preliminary engineering, environmental analysis, and community engagement. Community input has been actively sought to ensure the bridge meets the needs of residents and aligns with the existing community context.

Funding

This phase of the project is funded by a Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning grant, obtained in partnership with the Sacramento Area Council of Governments, and supplemented by local funds from the Sacramento Regional Transit District.

Looking Ahead

The Truxel Bridge represents a significant investment in Sacramento’s transportation infrastructure and a commitment to improving connectivity for its residents. As the project moves forward through design and construction, it promises to enhance mobility, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable transportation options for the region.