Sacramento seeks funding for I Street Bridge Replacement Project to enhance transportation

The California Transportation Commission (CTC) convened on July 1, 2025, for the second day of its June meeting, focusing on critical transportation projects across the state. The meeting featured a series of public comments from representatives advocating for various infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing multimodal transportation, safety, and community access.

The session began with Sabrina Terry, a field representative for Majority Leader Cecilia Aguilar Curry, who expressed strong support for the I Street Bridge Replacement Project in Sacramento. This project, which aims to construct a new bridge over the Sacramento River, is seen as vital for improving access for disadvantaged communities and supporting sustainable transportation options. With a pledge of $250 million from Caltrans and additional funding requested through the Local Partnership Program (LPP), the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits and create hundreds of construction jobs.

Following Terry, Paul Heierling from the Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments voiced support for the LPP staff recommendations, particularly highlighting the Watsonville-Santa Cruz multimodal corridor project. This initiative aims to enhance access to jobs for underserved communities and includes the development of bus auxiliary lanes to support new hydrogen bus routes.

David Trim, representing San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, reiterated the city's backing for funding the BART to Silicon Valley Phase 2 project. This project is anticipated to unlock substantial transit-oriented development, contributing to housing and job creation while aligning with climate goals.

Britney Bailey from the City of San Diego discussed the Stream View Drive revitalization project, which seeks to improve roadway safety and mobility in a historically underserved area. The project aims to reduce traffic-related injuries and enhance multimodal access through infrastructure upgrades.

Michael Villa from the Mendocino Council of Governments expressed support for the Central Ukiah Circulation Improvement Project, which focuses on enhancing accessibility and safety in a densely populated area. The project includes significant upgrades to sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks.

David Lehman, representing Stanislaus County, highlighted the urgent need for improvements to the Seventh Street Bridge in Modesto, which has been deemed one of the worst bridges in California. The proposed project aims to enhance safety and accommodate transit, with a funding strategy that includes a combination of LPP and federal highway bridge program funds.

Lastly, Emiliano Rosas spoke on behalf of State Senator Christopher Cabaldon, advocating for the High Street Bridge project. He emphasized the importance of this project in improving mobility and safety for all users, as the current bridge is over 113 years old and lacks necessary accommodations for modern transportation needs.

The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on the importance of these projects in addressing transportation challenges, enhancing safety, and promoting sustainable development across California. The CTC is expected to continue reviewing these proposals and their potential impacts on communities statewide.