Department of Transportation and Police helping mall handle hordes of holiday shoppers

The City of Sacramento Department of Transportation (DOT), Sacramento Police and Arden Fair Mall management are encouraging drivers to avoid delays getting in and out of the Arden Fair Mall parking lot by taking the mall’s free shuttle, especially during the busiest shopping day of the year – Black Friday.

This year, the mall paid the City to install 10 way-finding signs and employ a changeable message board to alert and direct drivers to Cal Expo where they can park for free and take the free shuttle. “The shuttle has proven to be even faster than accessing the mall parking lot during peak times and cruising for a parking space,” explained Steve Reed, Arden Fair Mall Security and Guest Services Manager. Shuttle information is available under “holiday shuttle” at http://www.ardenfair.com/events.asp?id=36071&start=11/26/2009.

DOT’s Traffic Engineering Division and Sacramento Police have met several times in recent months to coordinate on Arden Way traffic. Last year, the City adjusted the timing of traffic signals and posted signs at the parking lot entrance warning about the fine for blocking an intersection. The fine is $256. These measures also will be in place this year along with enhanced police enforcement monitoring the area to encourage compliance in hopes of minimizing traffic congestion and maintaining safety. DOT’s Traffic Operations Center staff will be available on an on-call basis to assist the mall with traffic control if necessary during the City holiday, Friday, November 27 and throughout the weekend.

Linda Tucker is the public information officer for the City of Sacramento Department of Transportation.