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.  

Northbound (east side) Closed

On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, construction shifted to the northbound (east side) of Watt Avenue.

  • The northbound bus stop (upper level) is closed
  • The northbound stairs and elevator are closed
  • Routes affected include 1, 15, 26, 84, and 93

Riders can use the temporary bus stop at Watt Avenue and Longview Drive near Wendy’s.

  • To reach the temporary stop from the light rail station:
    • Take the southbound stairs or elevator to Watt Avenue
    • Turn right and follow pedestrian detour signs
    • Cross Watt Avenue at Longview Drive
      ⚠️ Reminder: The pedestrian crossing near the freeway on-ramp remains closed

Route 15 Riders – Detour Notice

Route 15 (to Watt/I-80) is currently detouring via Longview Drive to Watt Avenue and will serve bus stop 3098 (Wendy’s). This detour will remain in place until construction is complete in summer 2026.

This phase will continue through summer 2026.

Map of Watt Ave northbound bus stop closure showing southbound open, northbound closed and the pedestrian crossing at longview drive

Southbound Side Reopened

Beginning Tuesday, December 16, 2025:

  • The southbound (west side) of Watt Avenue reopened
  • Southbound bus stops and the west 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 – December 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 - December 2025

Watt Avenue median replacement, lane closures on Watt Avenue.

December 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.

December 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

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