$12 million from state means more fun along Lower American River Parkway

Sacramento (Oct. 26, 2021) Mayor Darrell Steinberg joined state and local leaders Tuesday to celebrate a $12 million investment to improve public access to the Lower American River Parkway. The money was secured in the state budget by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty and Sen. Richard Pan.

It will help pay for more than a dozen planned improvements to the lower portion of the parkway, including a paddleboard concession stand at Sutter’s Landing Park, a new observation deck at the historic Camp Pollock, and the extension of the Two Rivers Trail west from Sutter’s Landing Park toward downtown.

McCarty, Pan and Mayor Steinberg appeared at a press conference Tuesday at Sutter’s Landing Park overlooking the American River to formally announce the state grant funding. Other elected officials included County Supervisor Phil Serna and Councilmember Jeff Harris, a champion of the Two Rivers Trail and other parkway improvements.

“It is something to note when our legislative delegation really focuses the way this legislative delegation has focused to make sure these investments benefit this jewel here,” Mayor Steinberg said. “I know (the parkway) is a state asset, but it’s also a local asset. You deserve a lot of credit for coming through for your community.”  

Here are some highlights of the parkway spending package:

·        $3.5 million for Camp Pollock will include an outdoor observation deck, lodge improvements, improved access for non-motorized watercraft and murals by artist Maren Conrad

·        $2 million to complete planning to connect the Two Rivers Trail from Sutter’s Landing Park to the Sacramento Northern Bikeway Trail in the River District

·        $1.2 million for a new concession building with kayak and paddleboard rentals in Sutter’s Landing Park