Shafter residents may soon see long-awaited changes to their neighborhoods as plans for sidewalk construction, improved drainage, bike lanes, repaved roads, and street lighting move forward in North Shafter and North Park.
The City of Shafter was recently awarded grant funding to develop a Transportation Sustainability Plan. In partnership with Diversified Project Services International, Inc. (DPSI), the City used community survey results to create conceptual plans for improving roadways in the designated areas. These conceptual designs illustrate several possibilities for upgrading existing right-of-ways, though no final option has been selected.
The City of Shafter held a community meeting to continue the discussion on future infrastructure planning throughout the city. They reviewed community priorities, survey results, and progress on planning. City Council members Chad Givens and Gustavo Olvera Jr. will also assist with the study for infrastructure planning.
Leading a recent community meeting, Michael James, Public Works Director for the City of Shafter, was joined by Alexa Koloksy, principal director of DPSI, to discuss current infrastructure plans and future development goals.
James reassured residents that funding has already been secured to build sidewalks along Highway 43—a nearly 100-mile stretch through the San Joaquin Valley that has seen numerous vehicle and pedestrian accidents, particularly between Wasco and Shafter.
“We have the funding, and the work is underway. We hope to have that bid out later this year,” James said.
One resident on Prince Street voiced frustration, questioning the repeated delays in local projects, including the construction of a new park that has been in planning stages for three years.
James responded that construction on the park is expected to begin this summer, with completion targeted for summer 2026. He explained that large-scale public works projects often face long timelines due to the complexities of planning and funding. The City Council recently added $2 million to the project, on top of the original $3.8 million awarded by the State of California.
“[The State] wanted to make sure that it got built and had more amenities than originally authorized,” James said. “The park will not only include the recreational features requested by the community, but also the wall recommended by the Council.”
Construction of both the new park and the sidewalks along SR-43 is expected to begin next week, with completion projected for next summer. These projects aim to promote walkability and cycling throughout the city.
To continue gathering public input, community members and city staff agreed to extend the online survey deadline to July 21. Residents are encouraged to share their feedback on infrastructure improvements and community needs.
To participate in the survey, visit: Shape Our City Survey