Sacramento's K Street reopens to cars

Downtown Sacramento is getting a blast from the past. A pedestrian street is reopening to vehicle traffic for the first time in more than four decades.

Mayor Kevin Johnson is expected to help kick off the transformation Saturday.

K Street was closed to vehicle traffic in 1969, when street conversions were popular.

After a three-month construction project, city leaders are hoping to draw more people by reopening four blocks to traffic, although parking is not allowed. They hope it will make the area more attractive to developers and promote business.

The city’s light rail runs between the downtown mall and 12th Street, but the stretch is dotted with vacant stores.

Saturday’s celebration will feature live music, performers and a classic car parade. Local restaurants are featuring all-day specials.