Kern County Public Works completes $50M pedestrian safety and sewer projects

The Kern Council of Governments (Kern COG) held its 2024 Regional Awards of Merit Ceremony on April 24, 2025, recognizing significant contributions to transportation and public works in Kern County. The meeting highlighted the achievements of the Kern County Public Works Capital Projects Division, which received the award for its efforts in enhancing pedestrian safety and infrastructure.

The discussion began with an overview of the ongoing challenges faced by residents in disadvantaged communities regarding pedestrian safety. A lack of sidewalks has led to 675 reported pedestrian collisions in unincorporated Kern County over the past decade. In response, the county utilized state and local fiscal recovery funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to address these issues. The Public Works division designed nearly 13 miles of new sidewalks, alongside 5 miles of sewer improvements and 7 miles of road resurfacing projects, all aimed at improving safety and accessibility.

Jeff Davis, senior engineer manager, accepted the award on behalf of the division, expressing gratitude to his team and acknowledging the collaborative effort required to complete these projects. He emphasized the importance of creating safe, walkable communities, which has been a long-standing priority for residents.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the State Route 46 Widening Project, which has significantly improved traffic flow and safety. This project expanded a 7-mile stretch of roadway from two to four lanes, introduced new sidewalks, upgraded lighting, and improved drainage systems. These enhancements are expected to reduce congestion and travel times while increasing safety for all users.

Overall, the ceremony underscored the commitment of Kern County officials to improving public infrastructure and ensuring the safety of its residents, particularly in underserved areas. The successful completion of these projects reflects a concerted effort to address long-standing community needs and enhance the quality of life for all Kern County residents.