Watt/I-80 Transit Center Improvement Project

This construction project began July 2024 and includes a variety of improvements that will help create a safer, more accessible environment at one of the region’s largest transit hubs.  

Latest Construction Updates

The SacRT bus stop located on the southbound side of Watt Avenue (upper level) is temporarily closed due to construction activity on Watt Avenue. The bus routes affected include 1, 26, 84 and 93. Riders can catch the bus at an existing bus stop in front of Sacramento Inn & Suites (formerly Red Roof Inn) located further down Watt Avenue toward Longview Drive.
 

To access the temporary bus stop from the light rail station: Take the northbound stairs or elevator to Watt Avenue, turn left down Watt Avenue and follow the pedestrian detour signs to cross Watt Avenue at the crosswalk at Longview Drive. PLEASE NOTE: The pedestrian crossing across Watt Ave near the freeway on-ramp is now closed due to on-ramp construction. Please follow signs for your safety and cross at Longview Drive. The temporary bus stop is in front of the Sacramento Inn & Suites (formerly Red Roof Inn).

During this stage of construction, the southbound elevator and stairs are closed during construction. Riders can use the northbound elevator or stairs to get to the upper level. The northbound bus stop is not impacted at this timeThis stage of construction is expected to last into May 2025.  

Map showing the closed pedestrian crossing across Watt Ave by the freeway on ramp and the detour crossing which is at Longview Drive.
Photo showing closed stairwell at the Watt/I-80 Transit Center

About the Project

The Watt/I-80 Transit Center Improvement Project includes widening of the Watt Avenue Bridge, construction of an open-air stairwell linking Watt Avenue and the transit center, a new bus/pedestrian plaza, improvements to on-ramps, and upgrades to the portion of the transit center located beneath Watt Avenue. Collectively, these improvements will help attract more riders, accommodate additional bus service from other regional operators, and enhance the overall safety of the transit center.  

Riders can expect temporary modifications in bus service during periods of construction, and drivers commuting to the transit center for bus or light rail service may also experience brief delays due to lane closures. SacRT will provide advance notice prior to any changes affecting bus service or access to the transit center. 

Anticipated Construction Schedule

Subject to Change

December 3, 2024– May 2025

Construction on west side of Watt Ave, bus plaza (upper deck on Watt Avenue) and stairs. Southbound bus stops will be temporarily relocated.

January – April 2025

Construction to south on-ramp, lane and ramp closures expected.

May - July 2025

Watt Avenue median replacement, lane closures on Watt Avenue.

July 2025 - April 2026

Construction on east side of Watt Ave, bus plaza (upper deck on Watt Avenue) and stairs. Northbound bus stops will be temporarily relocated.

July – September 2025

Construction to north on-ramp, lane and ramp closures expected.

Mid 2026

The Watt I-80 Transit Center Improvement Project is expected to be completed.

Questions?

Project hotline: 916-566-5221 
Email: WattI80Project@sacrt.com

Project Documents

Factsheet

Watt/I-80 Transit Center Improvement Project - Fact Sheet

Master Plan

Re-image Watt/I-80 Transit Center Master Plan - March 2018