BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Amtrak’s Gold Runner Route, which runs through Kern County, will receive over $42 million in grant funding, as announced by Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) on Monday, August 17.
Sen. Schiff’s office said the $42,963,200 will support upgrades at the Cherry Avenue Grade Separation (Shafter). An overpass is set to be constructed over both a freight and intercity passenger rail corridor and a major regional arterial roadway.
The route runs through Wasco, Shafter, and Bakersfield.
“I am proud to help deliver over $42 million in new safety and modernization upgrades across our Amtrak Gold Runner route to improve passenger experience and expand accessibility. This federal funding will ensure safety between the rail route and pedestrian and vehicle access,” stated Sen. Schiff.
“I’m proud to help deliver this critical funding to support California’s economy and commuters alike,” stated Sen Padilla. “Modernizing our railways will help cut carbon emissions, strengthen our economy, and keep commuters and goods moving safely.”
Downtown Bakersfield Amtrak Station (KBAK/KBFX)
The funding was provided by the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail (FSP) program.
For more information on the Gold Runner Route construction project, visit Sen. Schiff’s website.