Sacramento Considers $1.2M Plan to Fix Historic Hollow Sidewalks

City council to vote on proposal to inspect and repair aging infrastructure in Old Sacramento and downtown areas.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:04pm

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The city of Sacramento is considering a $1.2 million project to inspect and repair its historic hollow sidewalks, which were constructed in the 1860s when parts of the city were raised and new walkways were built on support systems over the old ground.

Why it matters

These hollow sidewalks are a unique part of Sacramento's history, but they also pose safety risks if left unrepaired. The proposed project would help the city better monitor and maintain this aging infrastructure.

The details

In the 1860s, when parts of Sacramento were raised, new sidewalks were constructed on support systems over the old ground, creating hollow spaces underneath. The city currently has a program to monitor these sidewalks, and the proposed $1.2 million project would allow them to more thoroughly inspect and repair any issues.

  • In the 1860s, parts of Sacramento were raised and new sidewalks were constructed.
  • The city currently has a program to monitor the hollow sidewalks.
  • On Tuesday, the city council will vote on the proposed $1.2 million repair project.

The players

Phil Pluckebaum

A Sacramento city councilmember who noted that many people are unaware of the hollow spaces under the sidewalks.

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What they’re saying

“What most folks don't realize is that when you're walking that there are places that are completely hollow. There are places where they are the original 18th and 19th century structures that have just been leveled up.”

— Phil Pluckebaum, City Councilmember

What’s next

On Tuesday, the Sacramento City Council will vote on whether to approve the $1.2 million project to inspect and repair the historic hollow sidewalks.

The takeaway

This project highlights the unique history and infrastructure challenges faced by older cities like Sacramento, where aging underground structures require ongoing maintenance and investment to ensure public safety.