The time is now, right now, to map out how you'll get to work once the feared commute event of the year hits Sacramento.
In a month, on May 30, highway officials begin the Big Fix -- six weeks of closures on busy Interstate 5 downtown. The ripple effect, they say, will be felt throughout the region.
Today, the Bee analyzes six major freeway corridors into downtown and offers alternative routes and commute tips.
I-5 North: Natomas into downtown
Bad news. On days southbound I-5 is closed, freeways in Natomas are destined to see the region's worst morning traffic. Afternoon freeway commutes will be better, but expect congestion getting out of downtown on surface streets. Telecommuting, anyone?
What you should know
The Richards Boulevard and J Street exits always will remain open, even when other southbound lanes are closed, but traffic will funnel to two lanes at those ramps. Expect delays. Also, leaving downtown to the north, you can use the I and L street onramps, as well as Richards Boulevard.
Alternatives
Some will try Northgate Boulevard through the American River Parkway. Others may head east to the Capital City Freeway. Another possibility: I-80 west into Yolo County, then back to Sacramento on Highway 50 or the I Street or Tower bridges.
Transit tips
North Natomas Transportation Management Association and Sacramento Regional Transit plan to boost bus service. Check Yuba- Sutter Transit as well. No special routing accommodations are being made so far, so buses will be in with the cars.
One commuter says:
Jan Mendoza commutes from Wheatland to the DMV office on Broadway and has asked for flex work time.
"I'm dreading May 30. I've pondered going into West Sacramento via I-80 then Highway 50, or surface streets to Northgate to 160, but I don't think that will be a good idea because of all of the traffic lights. I'll probably have to figure it out on a day-by-day basis."
