PRESS RELEASE

Solano County, in partnership with Yolo County, is moving forward with the rehabilitation of the historic Stevenson Bridge, a 298-foot, multi-span arch bridge spanning Putah Creek between the two counties. While both counties are served by the bridge, Solano County was originally established as the agency responsible for its maintenance. Yolo County contributes to half of the ongoing maintenance costs for the structure.

At more than 100 years old, Stevenson Bridge is designated as a historical landmark and serves as a critical transportation link connecting Solano and Yolo counties. According to California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the bridge “is a rare example of a reinforced concrete through tied arch in California and is the oldest bridge of this type in California and possibly the United States.” Often referred to locally as “Graffiti Bridge,” it is the only remaining concrete double arch span bridge of its kind from its era.

The comprehensive rehabilitation project will preserve and strengthen the historic structure while improving safety and extending its lifespan. Planned improvements include scour protection, seismic retrofitting, roadway realignment, new foundations, and concrete repairs throughout the bridge.

“The crossing of Stevenson Bridge is an important route for many modes, including bicyclists, and this temporary closure will present an inconvenience for those who frequently use this path for recreation and commuting,” said District 2 Yolo County Board of Supervisors Lucas Frerichs. “Yolo County will continue to perform monthly street sweeping and vegetation maintenance along County Road 31 to improve bicycle safety for those using this alternate route more frequently due to the temporary construction closure of Stevenson Bridge.”

Solano County has contracted with A&B Construction to complete the project for a bid price of $8,341,926. Each county’s share of the project cost will total approximately $1.65 million, with the majority of the funding provided through the federal Highway Bridge Program. Preliminary mobilization activities, environmental mitigation, and construction signage installation are already underway.

Construction is currently anticipated to begin in May. The active construction phase will require a temporary closure of Stevenson Bridge Road in Solano County (between Putah Creek Road and the bridge) and County Road 95A in Yolo County (between the bridge and Russell Boulevard).

Bridge closure is scheduled to begin Friday, May 1, and is expected to continue through October, with the goal of completing the work within a single summer construction season. Detours will be in place during this period. Local access to properties and businesses within the closure areas will be maintained throughout construction.

Stevenson Bridge is a vital link for residents, agricultural operations, and emergency services. Solano County is committed to restoring access for emergency response vehicles as early as possible during construction; however, the bridge will remain closed to regular vehicle traffic for the duration of the project.

County staff will continue coordinating closely with local agencies, emergency responders, and community stakeholders to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions.

Rehabilitating Stevenson Bridge is essential to preserving one of California’s most unique historic transportation structures. Addressing the bridge’s structural needs will ensure its continued accessibility, safety, and historical significance for generations to come.

Solano County and Yolo County both appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as this important infrastructure and preservation effort moves forward.

For more information about the Stevenson Bridge Rehabilitation Project, please contact the Solano County Department of Resource Management at (707) 784-6765 or speak with County inspectors on-site during construction.

For a map of Yolo County road closures and major maintenance projects, please visit www.YoloCounty.gov/road-closures. The public is reminded to slow down and obey all posted construction signs and directions from flaggers when traveling through work zones.