ENWatt/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.
Current Construction Phase
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 time. This stage of construction is expected to last until November 19, 2025.
Rider Alert - Upcoming Construction Changes
Beginning Wednesday, November 19, 2025, construction activities will shift from the west (southbound) side of Watt Avenue to the east (northbound) side. The bus stop on the southbound side of Watt Avenue (upper level) will reopen. This bus route serves routes 1, 26, 84 and 93. The southbound stairs and elevator will also reopen.
The SacRT bus stop located on the northbound side of Watt Avenue (upper level) will be temporarily closed effective Wednesday, November 19, 2025, due to construction activity on Watt Avenue. The northbound side stairs and elevator will also be closed. The bus routes affected include 1, 15, 26, 84 and 93. Riders can catch the bus at the existing SacRT bus stop at Watt Avenue and Longview Drive near the Wendy’s.
To access the bus stop from the light rail station: Take the southbound stairs or elevator to Watt Avenue, turn right down Watt Avenue (walk southbound) 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 currently closed. Please follow signs for your safety and cross at Longview Drive.
This stage of construction is expected to last through summer 2026.
Note to Route 15 (to Watt/I-80) riders: This route is detouring to use Longview Drive to Watt Avenue and will serve bus stop 3098 (Wendy’s). This detour will continue until the construction at the Watt/I-80 Transit Center is completed (anticipated completion date summer 2026).
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 – November 2025
Construction on west side of Watt Ave, bus plaza (upper deck on Watt Avenue) and stairs. Southbound bus stops will be temporarily relocated.
March - June 2025 (Completed)
Construction to south on-ramp, lane and ramp closures expected.
May - November 2025
Watt Avenue median replacement, lane closures on Watt Avenue.
November 2025 - June 2026
Construction on east side of Watt Ave, bus plaza (upper deck on Watt Avenue) and stairs. Northbound bus stops will be temporarily relocated.
November 2025 - January 2026
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