Palmdale Secures $5.3 Million Federal Grant for Major Street Safety Improvements

PALMDALE, CA - The City of Palmdale has secured a $5,382,164 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Program. This funding will support the 20th St. East Corridor Improvement Project, enhancing safety and accessibility along a 1.92-mile segment of this major thoroughfare.

The project addresses critical safety concerns on 20th St. East, a high-traffic corridor serving three schools and connecting residents to essential community resources. Planned improvements include new sidewalks, bike lanes, enhanced crosswalks, additional lighting, and reconstruction of the 20th Street East intersection.

"This project will significantly improve safety for all road users, especially for the over 5,500 students attending the three schools along this corridor," said Mayor Austin Bishop. "These enhancements align with our Sustainable Transportation Plan and directly address community input on critical safety needs."

The improvements will benefit students from Tamarisk Elementary, Sage Academy Middle School and Palmdale High School, as well as residents in the surrounding areas. The project also aims to enhance connectivity to public transit, parks and employment centers, including Edwards Air Force Base Plant 42.

"This grant not only allows us to improve road safety but also advances our goals for equity, sustainability and economic development," said Councilmember Eric Ohlsen. "By creating safer, more accessible streets, we're investing in the long-term vitality of our community."

The City plans to begin implementation before the end of the year, with ongoing community engagement throughout the process. Residents can expect to see improved pedestrian and cyclist safety, reduced traffic speeds and improved overall connectivity in the area.

"The safety of our residents is top priority," said Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa. "This project will have a significant impact on ensuring our streets are safer for everyone and will improve our residents' quality of life through the investments made with this grant."

For additional information regarding the project, please visit CityofPalmdaleCA.gov or call Public Works at 661/ 267-5300.