The Project team is currently conducting a feasibility analysis to explore preliminary concepts for a crossing of the Deep Water Ship Channel (DWSC). As summarized below, these concepts are being evaluated at a high-level to weigh benefits and impacts to the local area. Upon screening by City staff and Council, a well-defined set of alternatives will be selected and moved into the environmental analysis and preliminary engineering phase. 

No Build

No Build: No crossing of the DWSC would be constructed. This concept analyzes effects on communities that would occur, including economic and environmental impacts, if no crossing were built.

Above-Grade

High-Level Fixed Bridge: Carries traffic over DWSC and provides vertical clearance to accommodate bulk cargo ships passage currently accessing the Port of Sacramento. The vertical clearance of this bridge type would be considerable, requiring longer approaches to maintain maximum allowable grade and meet federal requirements for ship navigation.

At-Grade

Low-Level Fixed Bridge: Constructed in shorter footprint compared to a high-level fixed bridge, requiring shorter approaches and providing a more accessible crossing for pedestrians, cyclists, and those who use mobility devices. This concept would have limited vertical clearance, which limits the type of ships that could access the Port of West Sacramento.

Vertical Lift Draw Bridge: Combines characteristics of a high-level fixed bridge crossing, which provides vertical clearance needed for safe passage of bulk cargo ships with a shorter footprint similar to a low-level fixed bridge. This concept would include a moveable deck that would rise when a ship’s passage is needed and this mechanical nature adds considerable complexity and maintenance costs to a crossing.

Single-Deck Tunnel: Includes ample soil cover between top of the tunnel and bottom of the channel. To travel under the DWSC with ample depth of soil cover, a tunnel concept could have a longer profile comparable to some bridge concepts to avoid steep grades. This concept would carry one lane of vehicular traffic in each direction.

Double-Deck Tunnel: Similar considerations to single-deck tunnel but has two levels of vehicular traffic, allowing for higher-capacity and providing resiliency. The inclusion of a second deck of vehicular traffic would increase complexity of the crossing as additional transition ramps would need to be considered.