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.  

Current Construction Activity

Southbound (West Side) of Watt Avenue Closed

Rider Alert: As of Wednesday, August 26, 2026, changes have been made to construction activities for the Watt/I-80 Transit Center Improvement Project, impacting riders who use the upper-level bus stops.

The northbound bus stop on the upper level (east side) is now open. The northbound stairs and elevator are also open. The temporary bus stop location in front of Wendy’s will continue regular service for riders, but is no longer needed as a temporary stop for Watt/I-80 riders. The detour on Route 15 has ended.

The southbound bus stop on the upper level (west side) is currently closed. The southbound stairs and elevator are also closed.

Southbound bus stop riders should use the temporary bus stop location on Watt Avenue near Longview Drive, in front of the Sacramento Inn & Suites.

This is the final phase of construction for the project, and following this work, the entire station will reopen. Work is expected to be complete this fall.

map of watt/i-80 current construction activity.

Northbound (East Side) of Watt Avenue is Open

The northbound (east side) of Watt Avenue reopened August 2026. 

  • Northbound bus stops and the east sidewalk and elevator reopened
  • The new open-air stairway connecting Watt Avenue to the transit center is open

 

Image of Watt/I-80 construction efforts.

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 – September 2026

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 - December 2025 (Completed)

Watt Avenue median replacement, lane closures on Watt Avenue.

December 2025 - August 2026 (Completed)

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

December 2025 - Summer 2026 (Completed)

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

Fall 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

Screenshot of Watt/I-80 Factsheet with link to PDF

Factsheet

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

Master Plan

Master Plan

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