Congressman Ami Bera: “You look at our region and how we are growing, at what’s happening in Elk Grove, in Folsom and the El Dorado Hills, and you start to see where the growth is. Then you look at Grant Line Road, which is the artery that connects it all together...It is an old, outdated two lane highway that doesn’t reflect who we are today in the Sacramento region...to get this $25 million (federal grant) really is a catalyst for us to finish the entire project. This is our step to the future.” Photo courtesy of Capital Southeast Connector Joint Powers Authority

While Congressional bipartisanship is an endangered species these days, three members of Congress from California are demonstrating how diverse political perspectives can unite to support a road project that will literally save lives and greatly alleviate traffic congestion in the state’s capital city.

Democratic Representatives Ami Bera and Doris Matsui, along with Republican Kevin Kiley, are collectively pushing for federal funding to support the Capital SouthEast Connector project. This multi-modal transportation project represents a new way of thinking about transportation.

Congressman Kevin Kiley: “This project is really a testament to what is possible when everyone in our region is working together...When you think of the political divisions that exist in this country, one of the ways we can overcome them is through local regional projects that affect people’s lives in a tangible way. The Connector is a perfect example of that...The name connector is a perfect name because that is what it is all about, connecting people and connecting communities.” Photo courtesy of Capital Southeast Connector Joint Powers Authority

Recently, the United States Department of Transportation announced a new round of federal grants, highlighting a $25 million allocation to the Capital SouthEast Connector project. This funding will play a pivotal role in transforming a segment of Grant Line Road into an expressway in Rancho Cordova, addressing longstanding safety concerns and improving traffic conditions on the heavily traveled route.

Such bipartisan collaboration enhances public trust and confidence in the project, highlighting it as a community-centric initiative rather than a politically motivated endeavor. This approach sets a positive precedent for future infrastructure projects, emphasizing the importance of cooperative governance in long-term strategic planning. By working together, these three representatives have created a model for effective governance that might inspire similar collaborations on other critical issues.

The next step to fully fund the Connector improvements in Rancho Cordova is to request matching funds from the State of California. With federal support, we now have an opportunity to leverage the funding for more dollars from the State. To do so, Sacramento’s regional transportation planning agency needs to prioritize the project - and it will consider regional transportation priorities this month.

County Supervisor Hume: “More deaths happen right there on that curve (pointing to Grant Line Road) than at any place else along Grant Line Rd. If we are not preparing for the future, we are dooming the next generation to a certainty that they don’t want... We need road capacity. We need throughput, so we need this project. It’s about time we get this project coming to fruition.” Photo courtesy of Capital Southeast Connector Joint Powers Authority

If there’s agreement on priorities, it could potentially result in over $50M in federal and state funds, presenting a tremendous opportunity for success for the entire region. Let’s hope our regional transportation planning agency and the California Transportation Commission reward the true bipartisanship modeled by Representatives Bera, Kiley, and Matsui.

The Capital SouthEast Connector project aims to improve access and connectivity for all users and modes of transportation. It includes a Class 1 regional bike trail network, a wildlife crossing, roundabouts, and 50-year environmental permits were approved by federal resource agencies due to the creation of a regional habitat conservation plan.

The goal is to create a comprehensive multi-modal transportation network in California’s capital. These non-motorized transportation options can encourage eco-friendly commuting, reduce traffic congestion, and promote healthier lifestyles. More importantly, the modernized roadway will eliminate dangers that have already led to deaths.

The Capital Southeast Connector project is more than just a roadway; it is a testament to the power of collective thinking to meet shared community needs and promote smart regional development.

To learn more about the work underway visit www.ConnectorJPA.com or visit our YouTube channel at youtube.com/@southeast-connectorexpressway.