As 2024 ends, construction on the Fix50 Highway Enhancement Project along U.S. Highway 50 in Sacramento moves into its final stages. The $483.5 million project, scheduled for completion by summer 2025, includes major upgrades to pavement, bridges, ramps, and public transit infrastructure.

Drivers and residents in the region should prepare for continued traffic shifts and disruptions as crews work toward completing this significant infrastructure overhaul.

Traffic Changes Starting in December 2024

A new traffic shift on westbound U.S. 50 between 39th and 24th Streets will begin at 9 p.m. on December 2 and remain in place through May 2025. Key details include:

• Lane Configurations: Traffic will split into two left lanes and three right lanes, with the left lanes separated by a concrete barrier.
• Ramp Access: Motorists accessing Stockton Boulevard, Business 80, or the 26th Street off-ramp must stay in the far-right lanes.
• Speed Limit Enforcement: The speed limit in the work zone is 55 mph, with California Highway Patrol (CHP) monitoring compliance.

The changes will allow crews to replace aging pavement, lower road elevations for improved bridge clearance, and upgrade drainage systems.

2025 Construction Highlights

In the final year of construction, key focus areas will include:

• HOV Lanes: New high-occupancy vehicle lanes in both directions will extend from Watt Avenue to Interstate 5.
• Bridge Work: Crews will widen 12 bridges and increase vertical clearance at seven overcrossings.
• Ramps: Several on-ramps will be expanded, including new HOV lanes at the 65th Street ramps.
• Light Rail Expansion: Sacramento Regional Transit’s Gold Line will double its service frequency from Sunrise Boulevard to Downtown Folsom.
• Safety and Accessibility: Additional safety features and ADA-compliant sidewalks are part of the upgrades.

Construction Impacts

Residents and commuters should expect continued disruptions, including:

• Noise: Periodic loud construction noise, including overnight work in some areas.
• Traffic Delays: Increased construction vehicle activity and occasional lane closures.

Businesses along the corridor may experience reduced access at times and should prepare for temporary detours.

Staying Updated

To keep up with traffic conditions and construction progress:

• Text “Fix50” to 74121 for updates.
• Check live road conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov.
• Visit Caltrans’ Fix50 Project page for official project details and updates.

Looking Ahead

While work on the Fix50 Project will continue into 2025, Sacramento drivers and residents can expect lane adjustments and temporary inconveniences to persist in the coming months. Once completed, the project will provide long-term improvements to mobility, safety, and public transit infrastructure along one of the region’s busiest corridors.