For the third consecutive year, more transportation projects than planned were delivered ahead of schedule in the Sacramento region. In spite of a late start this year, SACOG delivered $25 million more than its share of funds, which is $5 million more than expected last July. This was achieved by borrowing from other regions that could not spend their allocation this year and delivering projects in the SACOG region scheduled for future years that were ready to begin. This accelerated schedule will create additional savings from avoiding future construction cost increases.
Some of the 2006 projects that were delivered include: widening of Greenback Lane from Auburn Boulevard to Dewey Drive from 4 to 6 lanes; light rail grade separation at Folsom Boulevard and Watt Avenue; completing the Amtrak/Folsom Corridor Project; CNG bus replacement; the Tower Bridge Pedestrian project; and the Tower Bridge Gateway at Riske Lane.
SACOG's accelerated delivery meant all federal transportation funds allocated to the region were spent, which regions forfeit if they don't spend them within a specific time period. The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments wasn't able to deliver all of their projects for this year, so they loaned SACOG $6 million with zero interest. Since Santa Barbara was due to lose the $6 million at the end of the federal fiscal year, they agreed to accept a $3 million repayment from SACOG. This represents a net gain of $3 million to this region.
SACOG is among the top metropolitan planning organizations in the state for the volume of projects delivered and is unique in being able to deliver more than 100% of its obligation authority.
"This impressive performance requires local agencies, Caltrans and SACOG to closely work together. SACOG's leadership from the planning stages through project delivery shows a real commitment to identifying and improving the transportation challenges we face," said Darryl Clare, SACOG Transportation Committee Chair and Galt Mayor.
"As the Sacramento region continues to grow, innovators in the public and private sectors are striving to create more livable communities," SACOG Chair Heather Fargo said. "Each winner has made contributions that will enhance the quality of life in our region for years to come."
SACOG instituted the annual awards program in 1999 to
honor outstanding regional work by organizations, businesses
and individuals. For further information on the awards, categories
and past recipients, please visit:
www.sacog.org/about/categories.cfm.
Regional Report for December 2006 - January 2007 (text-only version)
Sacramento Area Council of Governments