A system of freeway and road improvements envisioned to relieve traffic congestion in Bakersfield is challenged by cost overruns and reduced funding. Click on the symbols on the map to learn more about Bakersfield's freeway dreams.
Failing Roads Map
Gridlock in Bakersfield
A Californian examination shows we don't have enough money or time to build our way out of a nightmare traffic situation that has Bakersfield stalled.
| 03/06/07 16:45:34
Last Updated: 04/25/07 17:00:00
Bakersfield's road system is failing.
The city has exploded with large-lot urban sprawl, fast-food drive-up windows and strip malls, covering 27.6 new square miles over the last 12 years.But we haven't built a new freeway in nearly 30 years.Local politicians knew 15 years ago what kind of gridlock was coming to Bakersfield.They had a chance to prevent it by forcing growth to pay for the traffic it created. Instead they caved to pressure from developers and let the city grow unchecked.Now, not even the $630 million windfall from former Congressman Bill Thomas will stop us from becoming another Los Angeles.CLICK ON THE LINKS AT LEFT TO EXPLORE THE ISSUE.