If you listen to KXJZ on a regular basis you probably have heard a variety of news stories this week about the upcoming closure of the southbound lanes of I-5 through downtown Sacramento. Officials say they plan to close I-5 from Richards to the Highway 50 interchange around 8 p.m. Friday night...as work gets underway on a new drainage system and new concrete. Actually, work already has started...as concrete cutters have been doing some initial work after midnight this past week. According to the contractor in charge of repairs, C.C. Myers...the prep work could cut about a day off of the closure over the long haul. As it stands now, I-5 southbound lanes are expected to re-open to traffic on June 23rd.
Caltrans has pointed out that soughbound lanes are typically less travelled than northbound I-5...so the construction may not create as much congestion as the northbound closures may before this is all over. The true test for commuters will come during Monday morning's rush hour. That's when people who come downtown from destinations like Yuba City, Marysville and Placer County...will have to contend with the "Must Exit" signs placed on the freeway. That will undoubtedly put a little more traffic on the side roads...and state and city officials say they're going to keep an eye on which side roads attract the most vehicles trying to navigate through the area. So for anyone coming down the southbound lanes of I-5 over the next ten days or so...take note: Caltrans has set up a designated "Truck Route" for the big rigs...encouraging the 18-wheelers to use I-80 into west Sacramento....then back east on Highway 50. Other drivers...in smaller cars and trucks...will be forced off of I-5 at either Richards Boulevard...or at J Street. Two lanes will be available for exit of I-5 there.
Here's something else to remember: The P Street onramp southbound to I-5 is expected to be very busy...so you may want to avoid that situation if possible. For anyone who works in the area or plans to park and ride light rail or Amtrak...there are still parking permits available from the city. You will be allowed to temporarily leave your vehicles at Discovery Park...until the construction project is over. But, again...you will need a permit...or get a ticket.
Wow, lots to remember...but based on how relatively smoothly things went with the first closure of I-5 northbound...this may be old hat...and there won't be any major problems with the southside of the interstate. We shall see. And, of course you can always listen to KXJZ's Morning Edition and All Things Considered broadcasts for regular traffic updates. The KXJZ newsroom also is out and about searching for any "breaking news" as the Fix I-5 project continues. We're always here for you with reports and updates...after all...we drive this stretch of road too. Until next time, have a wonderful and safe weekend. Here's to life in the slow lane! Steve Shadley