City officials, community leaders, and funding partners held a celebration of the installation of a new sewer line along South MLK Boulevard in Southeast Bakersfield, last week.
The $5.5 million commitment by the city to build a 1.5-mile sewer trunk line in Southeast Bakersfield, main focus is to create affordable housing for all income levels and to drive economic growth and community improvement.
“This $5.5 million key investment marks an investment in economic opportunity for all,” said Mayor Karen Goh. “Development and growth are happening now. Let’s go, community Del Oro, and let’s lead the way into the future.”
Phase one covers 158 acres of development, which will include 1,400 new multifamily housing units. Significant progress expected by 2025-2026.
The installation will also invest in parks, amenities, and infrastructure to enhance quality of life. Plans include a new 20-acre park, safe bike lanes, and beautification projects like curbs, gutters, and sidewalks.
The project will also invest in the first major grocery store in the area and a new healthcare facility.
“We know our children in this community are ambitious. We know they have big dreams. We know they want to go all the way to the top,” said Supervisor Leticia Perez.
Councilmember Eric Arias said that the city is now taking action, not just talking, to uplift the community and acknowledged the dreams and aspirations of past generations and expressed pride in finally seeing progress.
“For decades on decades, there have been people who have come before me with dreams, hopes, and visions for what Southeast Bakersfield could be,” Arias said. “This is our vision. It’s our turn. Let’s go.”
