Sutter Street Facelift Underway Soon

The Historic District is Folsom’s crown jewel. Preserving and enhancing the unique character and historical nature of the area is a high priority for the City of Folsom.  The Sutter Street Revitalization Project is a community driven effort launched by Historic District merchants several years ago. 

The City Council awarded a $8.4 million construction contract to Teichert Construction on Jan. 12.  Work should begin in February and be substantially completed before the 2010 holiday season.





What does the project include? 

Streetscape project work includes removing medians and trees, relocating traffic lanes, creating limited on-street parking and delivery areas, replacing some shed roofs, adding ramps for ADA access and widening sidewalks to accommodate shoppers, outdoor eating areas and new shade trees.  

Why make any changes? 

The City’s goal was to preserve our Historic District’s cherished character and ambiance, while improving access for people with disabilities, improving fire protection, repairing aging water and sewer infrastructure and attracting new business through beautification.   

Will special events continue during the Streetscape project? 

Popular Sutter Street activities such as Thursday Night Markets, Folsom Live and the Peddler’s Fair will continue as usual.  Stores and restaurants will remain open.  While there will be some occasional street closures, pedestrian access will be maintained. 

Will historic elements be preserved? 

Preserving the historic resources of Sutter Street is an important priority.  The City hired a consultant with expertise in historic preservation to help safeguard the historic authenticity of Sutter Street.  The consultant worked closely with the Folsom Historical Society and the Heritage Preservation League to identify specific historic buildings and features that are worthy of reservation or restoration.  They also participated in the design process to ensure historical integrity of the plan. 

Why remove the large trees in the median? 

The 40-year-old trees are dying and must be removed for safety reasons.  The trees were planted in just 12 inches of soil atop the original Highway 50.  The roots are growing sideways, creating pedestrian hazards and shortening the trees’ lifespan. 

Were Historic District merchants and residents involved in the design process? 

Historic District merchants initiated the project in 2005 and have actively participated in the process.  Merchants, as well as many Historic District residents, have attended numerous meetings over the past three to four years.  They reviewed design alternatives and provided many suggestions that were incorporated into the final design.   

What is the construction time table for the Sutter Street Revitalization Project? 

The City expects that work will begin in January 2010 and be substantially completed before the start of the 2010 holiday shopping season.  

Will new businesses open on Sutter Street after the project is complete? 

The Sutter Streetscape Project will create a more effective center for commerce that will most likely attract new business ventures once the economy rebounds. 

Is the Railroad Block property near the parking garage included in this project?  

The Historic Folsom Station located on Folsom’s Railroad Block is a separate project.  However, work on the Historic Folsom Station Public Plaza will follow a similar construction time table as the Sutter Street Revitalization Project.   

What does the Historic Folsom Station project include? 

The Historic Folsom Station Public Plaza will be a community gathering spot that features a stage and amphitheater that seats 300 to 500 people, outdoor dining and seating areas and temporary tents for outdoor markets.   The Public Plaza will be surrounded by the private mixed-use buildings planned by the Railroad Block Development Partners, LLC.  That project will include residential lofts, retail and office space, and a restaurant.  Visit http://www.folsomstation.com/ to learn more.