Service disruptions, bus bridges to continue through Nov. 17 for Folsom area riders
FOLSOM – Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) has announced that the light rail construction project in the Folsom area will be extended into the month of November, resulting in ongoing service disruptions and bus bridges for local commuters.
The construction, which began in January as part of SacRT’s Folsom 15-Minute Light Service Project, is focused on adding a passing track at the Glenn/Robert G. Holderness Station. Once complete, the addition will allow SacRT to offer 15-minute light rail service at all Folsom area stations, including Hazel, Iron Point, Glenn/Robert G. Holderness, and Historic Folsom.
Despite progress, SacRT has confirmed that the construction timeline has been extended, leading to continued disruptions for passengers. Riders can expect bus bridges between Iron Point and Historic Folsom stations to remain in place throughout November. Additionally, extended bus bridges will occur during three weekends in November between the Cordova Town Center and Historic Folsom stations. These bus bridges are scheduled for the weekends of November 2-3, November 9-10, and November 16-17, 2024, to allow for track testing and other final construction work.
Throughout the construction period, shuttle buses will replace light rail service between Iron Point and Historic Folsom stations, operating every 30 minutes. Shuttle buses will pick up and drop off passengers at designated locations near each station. At Iron Point Station, buses will stop at the upper driveway near the stairs. At Glenn/Robert G. Holderness Station, shuttle service will be available next to the platform, and at Historic Folsom Station, buses will pick up passengers from the stop on Reading Street across from the parking garage.
New bus bridge schedule detailed
SacRT has released a detailed bus bridge schedule to accommodate riders. On weekdays, the first bus departs from Iron Point Station at 4:41 a.m., with the last bus leaving at 11:11 p.m. From Historic Folsom Station, the first bus departs at 5 a.m., and the last leaves at 11:30 p.m.
On Saturdays, the first bus from Cordova Town Center Station departs at 5:28 a.m., with service continuing until 11:30 p.m. Buses from Historic Folsom on Saturdays begin at 7:30 a.m. and also run until 11:30 p.m. Sunday service starts later, with the first bus from Cordova Town Center at 5:28 a.m., and the last at 9:28 p.m. The first bus from Historic Folsom departs at 10 a.m., and runs until 9:30 p.m.
Traffic impacts, re-openings
In addition to public transit disruptions, traffic impacts are also in place along Folsom Boulevard. Lane closures are currently affecting the stretch between Bidwell Street and Parkshore Drive. The two northbound lanes closest to the train tracks are closed, with traffic redirected into the adjacent southbound lanes, reducing the road to one lane in both directions. To ensure safety, the speed limit has been reduced to 35 mph. Glenn Drive between Folsom Boulevard and Coolridge Drive, which had also been affected, is expected to reopen by October 20
Motorists are encouraged to consider alternate routes and adjust travel schedules to avoid congestion. These lane closures will remain in effect seven days a week until construction is completed. SacRT advises both riders and drivers to stay updated, as the schedule may change due to weather or other factors.
The Folsom 15-Minute Light Service Project is part of SacRT’s broader initiative aimed to enhance public transportation in the region. The addition of the passing track at Glenn/Robert G. Holderness Station will allow for faster and more frequent light rail service, significantly reducing wait times for commuters. However, the extended construction timeline has caused challenges for both transit users and motorists in the Folsom area, according to SacRT.
SacRT encourages riders to frequently check their website for updates on service disruptions, schedule changes, and lane closures. While the project is expected to bring long-term benefits, commuters should be prepared for ongoing delays and adjustments through November. For more information, visit the SacRT website or contact their customer service department.