MATSUI ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $3 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR SACRAMENTO STITCH PARK RIVERFRONT RECONNECTION PROJECT

SACRAMENTO, CA - A new $3.15 million federal investment secured by Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) through Community Project Funding will advance the Sacramento Stitch Park Riverfront Reconnection Project, a major effort to create a vibrant community gathering space from downtown Sacramento to the city's riverfront. She announced the funding this morning at a press conference alongside Downtown Sacramento Partnership Executive Director Michael Ault, Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty, Sacramento City Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum, Visit Sacramento President and CEO Mike Testa, and other community leaders at Crocker Park.

"Sacramento's story has always been shaped by our rivers, our neighborhoods and the people who built this city from the ground up," said Congresswoman Matsui. "But when I-5 cut through this neighborhood, it separated downtown from the riverfront and displaced communities whose history deserves to be remembered. This project is about reconnecting what was divided, reclaiming access to one of our greatest shared assets and building a downtown that reflects the full diversity, history and culture of Sacramento."

"For generations, Sacramento has looked to its riverfront as both our origin story and our greatest untapped opportunity. Interstate 5 has long stood as a barrier between our community and this defining natural asset. The Riverfront Reconnection Project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bridge that divide, reclaiming space for people, restoring access to the water, and creating a signature civic destination that reflects the vitality and promise of our Capital Region," said Michael Ault, Executive Director of Downtown Sacramento Partnership. "The bold leadership of Congressmember Doris Matsui in securing federal funding is critical to advancing this vision. Her continued commitment to investing in transformative infrastructure ensures that Sacramento can finally realize what so many other great cities have achieved: a vibrant, connected riverfront that drives economic growth, fosters community, and celebrates place."

"With this project, we're transforming a barrier into a connector," said Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty. "For 60 years, the 1-5 has separated downtown from the river. Our residents deserve access to the river that built this city. I look forward to a future where the riverfront is lively and welcoming, a source of unity and pride."

"Our city was born on the banks of the Sacramento River, which was cut off by I-5 to our downtown," said Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum. "Reconnecting the City to the river gives us an opportunity to promote additional economic development along the waterfront and provide valuable greenspace to our residents."

"It takes bold vision to transform a city, and the Sacramento Riverfront 'Stitch' Reconnection Project is the perfect example of exactly that type of vision," said Mike Testa, President and CEO of Visit Sacramento. "I applaud Congresswoman Matsui's leadership in creating momentum for a project that will provide a seamless connection between Sacramento's historical district and its modern downtown, while making the destination more appealing to visitors navigating an unfamiliar place, and to residents who are ready to rediscover their city."

The proposed 4-acre park would create safer pedestrian access, expand public green space and open new opportunities for housing, tourism, economic development and community gathering in the heart of the city.

This investment builds on Congresswoman Matsui's longtime commitment to strengthening Sacramento's public spaces, expanding opportunity and supporting the region's continued growth. Earlier this year, Matsui delivered millions in federal funding for Mosaic Village project, which includes the Recovery Cafe, and Sacramento State Capital Campus. Like those initiatives, the Stitch Project will help shape a more connected and vibrant community, making it easier for residents and visitors to reach the riverfront while supporting new activity, investment and quality of life.

For more information on the Stitch Park Riverfront Reconnection Project, click HERE.