Fix coming for unused Del Rio Trail bridge as city, contractor reach deal.
Work is expected to begin in the coming weeks on replacing a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Interstate 5 that was deemed structurally unsound before it ever opened to the public, Sacramento city officials announced.
The Del Rio Trail bridge, meant to link a new 4.8-mile path through south Sacramento neighborhoods to the Sacramento River Bike Trail, has sat unused since the trail debuted in May 2024. Inspectors discovered the problems shortly after, prompting the city to reject the structure outright and demand a full replacement from contractor Mountain Methods Inc.
A letter from a senior city engineer to the contractor last year detailed the defects: the bridge widening at Land Park Underpass deviated from approved plans, specs, and concrete mix designs. Core samples showed the lightweight concrete and rebar fell short of standards, making the bridge unsafe and prone to potential collapse if used.
These issues emerged during post-construction checks in summer 2024. Though the $23 million Del Rio Trail — running from Riverside Boulevard to the Bill Conlin Youth Sports Complex — opened on time, the bridge stayed barricaded, and by September 2024, officials confirmed the need for demolition.
Footage of existing Del Rio Trail Bridge.
Negotiations with Mountain Methods dragged on, with the contractor granted extensions to respond. To sidestep lawsuits and further holdups, both sides agreed on a fix, allowing work to begin this month.
Councilmember Rick Jennings, representing the district, voiced relief at the deal. "Seeking a resolution that allows repair work on this bridge as quickly as possible was my priority," he said. "I want to acknowledge the community's frustration with this process, and I share in this frustration."
Jennings credited staff for spotting the flaws before the opening and negotiating the outcome.
Replacement involves removing the faulty overhang and installing a compliant one, coordinated with Caltrans and California State Parks. Nighttime I-5 lane closures and temporary Riverside Boulevard shutdowns — daytime ones outside rush hours with detours — are planned. The bridge stays off-limits.
Completion is slated for year's end, restoring full trail access for cyclists and pedestrians in an area long needing safer routes.
