The $270 million South Line Phase II extension was conceived to bridge Sacramento’s rapidly growing South Corridor to its urban core and east-northeast corridors. Stretching 4.3 miles further, the extension brings light rail into new neighborhoods by adding four high-platform stations, a major transit center at CRC and expansive park-and-ride capacity. The project supports increased access to education, job centers and sustainable transit alternatives across Sacramento County.
What challenges did STV overcome?
Launching a rail extension through densely developed urban areas meant STV had to anticipate and address significant technical and logistical hurdles. The alignment required coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for roadway modifications, managing the relocation or protection of multiple underground and overhead utilities and designing through constrained rights-of-way that adjoined active Union Pacific Railroad tracks. Additionally, the project included major structural elements such as a 1,320-foot bridge over rail lines and creeks and a 945-foot crossing over an active arterial, each with demanding geotechnical and design constraints.
What solutions did STV deliver?
In its role providing construction management services, STV led detailed constructability reviews, developed project management plans and contract documents, and tracked compliance across street, bridge, right-of-way and track work. Through day-to-day oversight, STV coordinated with city, state, utility and rail partners to sequence work, manage risk and maintain stakeholder communication. The team also guided materials testing, change control, and quantity tracking, ensuring the extension was delivered with precision and minimal disruption.
How does the Phase II extension make transit better?
By expanding light rail into underserved southern corridors, the CRC extension promotes mobility – connecting more residents to transit, reducing travel time, and alleviating congestion. The new stations and park-and-rides magnify access while multimodal integration strengthens connectivity across Sacramento’s transit network. Combined with improved signal, traction, and communications systems, the extension enhances system capacity and passenger experience across the region.
Key stats and accolades
- 4.3 miles of new track.
- 4 new high-platform stations, each with inbound/outbound boarding.
- 2,700 park-and-ride spaces at Cosumnes River College Transit Center.
- A 1,320-foot bridge spanning Union Pacific Railroad tracks and creeks and a 945-foot bridge crossing a major arterial roadway.
- City of Sacramento, Caltrans, Union Pacific, FRA, utility companies.
- Delivered with extensive coordination that minimized community disruption and enhanced regional connectivity.
