Can a major arterial be the heart of a community? A vibrant new streetscape design for this 3.5-mile commercial spine now fosters a community sense of place and supports economic development. The West Capitol Avenue redesign included traffic and circulation improvements, colored pavers to indicate crossings, shade trees, planting and green infrastructure for rainwater management, lighting, plenty of seating, and art elements that play on the Sacramento River Cats baseball team.

The improved street has brought in private investments by a hotel, bank and many small businesses, as well as a new community college, community center, library and transit center.

The project won APA’s 2010 Transportation Project of the Year award.