SVS Commuter Bus Stop Consolidation Project

Bus Route Map open_in_full

Bus Route Map

Project Overview

This project is an essential component of the SVS Commuter Bus Stop Consolidation Project that fills a gap in the street network to increase efficiency for the regional commuter buses accessing SVS and stops through downtown, to and from the north via Interstate 5. It also benefits local SacRT service routes through the Railyards and River District, as well as bicycle and pedestrian mobility, and general vehicle access. This project was made possible by a grant award in 2022 from the California State Transportation Authority’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capitol Program (TIRCP) and is augmented with funding from Measure A County Sales Tax funding. The $4.657M TIRCP funding included funds for engineering design and documents which was completed in November 2024, with construction beginning this summer.

Why is this Project Happening?

Our public transportation system plays a key role in connecting Sacramento residents, commuters, and visitors to essential services, work, and recreation. In recent years, the needs of our riders have evolved, and so have the challenges faced by the city’s bus infrastructure. The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) developed the TIRCP grant program to fund statewide transit and rail projects that will improve transit access and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. TIRCP is funded from the State Cap and Trade carbon credit program and SB1 state gas-tax funds. The California Air Resources Board is a partner in the TIRCP program. The funding for this project and other related projects to invest in the Sacramento Valley Station as the region’s premier transit hub, CalSTA recognizes the benefits for our region’s emphasis on growing transit-rail ridership in our region.

The Commuter Bus Stop Consolidation project will implement the SACOG route with new enhanced bus stops in the Central City that will:

  • Provide a more reliable and efficient experience for daily commuters
  • Improve bus accessibility for all passengers, including seniors and those with disabilities 
  • Ensure smoother transfers between different modes of transportation
  • Enhance pedestrian safety and ease of movement
  • Reduce traffic congestion around busy areas

The 2021 SACOG Downtown Transit Integration Study, funded by TIRCP, found that pre-pandemic bus routing and service locations had not been coordinated effectively, resulting in scattered and inefficient bus stops. The new routing and enhanced stops will streamline commuter bus service in the region and enhance connectivity for all riders. While the project prioritizes commuter peak-hour services, off-peak use of the network will be made available for agencies that choose to overlap this network

What Changes Are Being Made?

  • Bus Stop Relocations: Several stops will be moved for better access and connection to trains and light rail. Overall, the number of stops will be consolidated and have been designed to move from individual operator only stops to shared operator stops which are distributed more uniformly and through the high employment zones of the Central City. 
  • Improved Accessibility: New bus stop designs will typically expand into the street parking aisles (unless site-specific constraints are prohibitive), generous shelter size with high quality lighting, and digital bus information displays. 
  • Bus Priority: Bringing the bus curb to the traffic lane prioritizes the efficiency of bus schedules in heavy traffic by keeping buses in the traffic lanes 
  • Connectivity: The new stops are located to improve transfers between buses, trains, and light rail. The new Midtown Valley Rail Staton (San Joaquin and ACE trains) will be served by a new bus stop on Q Street for access to this forthcoming rail system.

Timeline of the Project

  • Spring 2023 – Initiation of Engineering Design and Documents 
  • November 2024 – Completion of Engineering Design and Documents
  • Summer 2025 - Start of Construction 
  • Fall 2026 - Anticipated Construction Completion

How Will This Benefit You?

Whether you’re a daily commuter via bus or bicycle, this project aims to make your experience smoother and more convenient. Key benefits include: 

  • Faster Service: More direct route to Interstate 5 at Richards Blvd will lead to quicker travel times for freeway-based regional carriers.
  • Safer Travel: 5th Street is designed as a lower vehicular volume street and promotes bike and pedestrian access. This segment will complete the 5th Street network in the Railyards.

Community Engagement

We value your input! This project is about improving the transportation system for all of Sacramento, and we invite you to share your thoughts and feedback. The City of Sacramento will hold meetings and provide online platforms where residents and commuters can voice their opinions and learn more about the project’s progress. Stay connected and follow the updates on this page, where we’ll post project milestones, construction schedules, and other important information.

Property Based Improvement District (PBID) Stakeholder Meeting Presentation - 5/13/2025.

Community Stakeholder Meeting Presentation - 5/20/25

Contact Us

For more information about the SVS Bus Stop 5th Street Extension project, please contact:

Greg Taylor, AIA, LEED AP, Supervising Architect, Project Manager

Email: gtaylor@cityofsacramento.org

Together, we can create a more efficient and accessible public transit system for everyone in Sacramento. Thank you for your patience and support as we work towards a better, more connected city!

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