Elk Grove Citizen - RT Parking Garage Going Up at CRC

News Article

By Kristie West

Cosumnes River College (CRC) and Sacramento Regional Transit (RT) began construction on a multi-level parking structure this week.

The $31.5 million five-level, four-story parking garage will have 2,000 spaces that will serve both the students and RT light rail passengers when the Blue Line to Cosumnes River College light rail extension is completed in 2015.

"The start of construction for this parking structure demonstrates RT and CRC's determination to push forward on the Blue Line project during difficult economic times," Mike Wiley, RT General Manager/CEO said. "In addition to the benefit for students and RT passengers, the parking structure will also create approximately 100 jobs in the Sacramento region."

The jobs created with this construction project are much needed in the region and is something Rep. Doris Matsui (D-Sacramento) praised during the groundbreaking ceremony for the parking garage recently.

"This is precisely the kind of project that needs to be supported- those that serve the community and create jobs," she said.

Matsui also talked about the accessibility to higher education this project will provide.

"Both RT and CRC, and our region's leaders, understand that access to our community colleges is not just about keeping tuition affordable, " she added. "Students must also be able to get to and from campus easily and safely."

CRC President Deborah Travis agreed that increasing access to college is vital.

"Part of our strategic plan is grounded on providing access to public transit routes and this joint facility is the first step," she said. "The launch of construction on this facility represents a new gateway for students, staff and the community- a tangible and accessible portal for Sacramento residents and students to civic activities and educational opportunities."

RT staff reported that the Blue Line to CRC is one of the highest priority transit projects in the region and, once completed, will extend light rail 4.3 miles south from the existing terminus at Meadowview Road.

Sacramento County Supervisor and RT Board Chair Don Nottoli is enthusiastic about seeing this project begin.

"This parking structure is only the beginning, and in the near future other developments for the extension of the Blue Line will allow those in this area to access and utilize more public transit options," he said.

As part of an overall transportation network that will link Sacramento City College and CRC, the future site will also be the home for a light rail station and transit center linking the south corridor with three other planned light rail stations beyond Meadowview.

The parking structure will be built by the spring of 2013.

Kristie West is the spokesperson of Cosumnes River College.

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