Kings County Board approves construction contract for Sixteenth Avenue bridge replacement

The Kings County Board of Supervisors convened on July 1, 2025, to address key infrastructure and legal service needs within the community. A significant decision made during the meeting was the approval of a construction agreement for the replacement of the Sixteenth Avenue bridge over the Tulare Lake Canal. This project, which has faced delays due to environmental concerns and flooding, is set to commence in September 2025, with an estimated completion time of 66 working days. The bridge, currently deemed structurally deficient, will be replaced with a more durable concrete structure, funded entirely through federal and state resources.

Mitchell Cabrera, the chief engineer with the Public Works Department, emphasized the importance of this project for local transportation safety and infrastructure improvement. The board unanimously approved the agreement with AG Construction Corporation, which submitted the lowest bid of $2.25 million. This decision marks a crucial step in enhancing the county's infrastructure, ensuring safer travel for residents.

In addition to infrastructure, the board also discussed the approval of 19 contracts with independent attorneys to provide indigent defense services for the upcoming fiscal year. Giselle Coit, an administrative analyst, explained that these contracts are vital for complying with the Bridal Court Funding Act, which mandates legal representation for individuals unable to afford an attorney. Kings County is one of the few counties in California that fulfills this requirement through private contracts rather than a county-run public defender's office.

The contracts were renewed with nearly all current attorneys, and additional qualified attorneys were brought on board to ensure comprehensive legal coverage. This move not only supports the legal rights of vulnerable community members but also reinforces the county's commitment to upholding justice and providing necessary legal services.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's ongoing efforts to address critical infrastructure needs and ensure equitable legal representation for all residents, reflecting a commitment to improving community welfare and safety.