Folsom Boulevard upgrade aims to boost commerce

Upgrading Folsom Boulevard has long been important to Rancho Cordovans.  The new updates make the Boulevard more functional, they are creating a new image, and the new sidewalks are a much needed safety feature for Kinney High School students, light rail riders, and other pedestrians.

"Changing what was formerly Highway 50 into a local roadway will mean that Folsom Boulevard will be more enticing to business development," said Cyrus Abhar, the City's Public Works Director.

The Boulevard has a long history of being a major highway and thoroughfare.  "We are turning it into a hometown roadway that is pedestrian friendly and provides easy access to businesses," said Ted Gaebler, Rancho Cordova City Manager.

The $25 million update is planned to re-energize, renovate, upgrade, and beautify Folsom Boulevard in Rancho Cordova.  Construction includes sidewalks, landscaping, medians, new paving and striping.  Traffic lights will be modified.  And an underground drainage system is now in place.  Most of this has been done with outside monies - Federal and State funding sources.

"We can't afford to lag behind our competitors in Folsom and Citrus Heights who are making significant infrastructure improvements.  Otherwise, business opportunities, jobs, and revenue will go to those communities instead of Rancho Cordova," said Ted Gaebler, Rancho Cordova City Manager.  "Unfortunately, traffic has been affected during construction, but you can't make an omelet without breaking a few eggs or get to second base by staying on first."

Nadeem Chaudhry, station manager of USA Gasoline on Folsom Boulevard is happy about the project and says it will be positive for his business.  "It will be beautiful when it's done," he said. 

For current construction news on Folsom Boulevard, go to www.cityofranchocordova.org.