BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The southbound Highway 99 off-ramp to Stockdale Highway is scheduled to close permanently Nov. 20, according to the City of Bakersfield.
City of Bakersfield Press Release
The city said the closure is part of the Centennial Corridor Project and the Thomas Roads Improvement Program, which includes improvements to the Highway 58 and 99 interchange. The city and Caltrans said the closure is consistent with state safety standards and will “enhance safety for the traveling public.”
The remaining work at the interchange is expected to begin in late 2027. According to the city, the project will give southbound Highway 99 drivers a direct connection to westbound Highway 58, reducing the need to use local roads.
Community members around the area had different reactions to the planned closure.
Lorrie Payne, who lives in the area, said she is worried about traffic and getting out of her neighborhood.
“We’re upset about it, a lot of us in this neighborhood, because we only have two exits out,” Payne said. “Everybody will be taking the California off the 99 trying to get to Stockdale, and this whole neighborhood is going to be blocked. We can hardly get out of here now.”
Nick Martinez, who said he uses the off-ramp, also expressed concern about congestion.
“We have enough congestion as it is with traffic being congested in this area…With that being closed off it would just create more,” Martinez said. He said he would likely backtrack toward the California exit or continue to the Ming exit.
Irene Romero supports the closure because of the noise she hears from trucks using the ramp.
“I think it’s a wonderful idea because one, the noise,” Romero said. “If you live on this side of the freeway, you hear noise 24/7, especially at night.” Romero said the closure would affect her family more than it affects her.
Eyewitness News reached out to the City of Bakersfield and Caltrans for an interview; both are working with us to schedule an interview at a later time.