Sonora Considers Partnering On Hospital Road Reconstruction Project

Sonora, CA — Sierra Northern Railroad is doing repairs this fall to the damage caused by a recent train derailment in Sonora, and the city is considering updating Hospital Road at the same time.

The city council will vote on a $639,362 contract with Sierra Northern Railroad's contractor, G. Hedgecock, Inc., to do the needed work. The city reports that Hospital Road is in an advanced state of degradation and has the potential to damage vehicles passing through the area.

Meeting documents prepared by city staff ahead of today's meeting note, "It would be in the best interest of the City of Sonora to partner with the Sierra Northern Railroad to fully reconstruct Hosptial Road and provide a complete project from South Washington Street through the second at-grade crossing, approximately 1,500 linear feet where the railroad tracks are adjacent to the roadway. This project will bring Hosptial Road back to a more functional street for providing access to the hospital and adjacent businesses."

The city notes that working collaboratively will also reduce the overall price of the project and reduce the required review process.

Also today, the council will vote on closing several streets on Friday, November 29 for the annual downtown Christmas Parade. 2024 will mark the 41st year of the event.

Today's council meeting starts at 5 pm at Sonora City Hall.