Porterville City Council Considers Reviving Bus Routes and Infrastructure Projects

The Porterville City Council is set to deliberate on reestablishing bus routes, including a vital connection to Porterville College, during its upcoming meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on an unspecified date. If approved, the new routes would go into effect on January 2, 2026. The council previously voted to temporarily suspend bus routes 4 and 6 earlier this year, a decision aimed at improving operational cost recovery, though it resulted in service gaps in high-demand areas, particularly affecting access to educational facilities.

City staff noted that the proposed bus routes aim to enhance connectivity to significant destinations throughout the community, including Family HealthCare Network. Two concepts have been put forward for consideration: Concept 4 and Concept 5. Concept 4 involves a design with four routes operating every 45 minutes, restoring service south of downtown and along key corridors such as Westfield Avenue. This concept ensures connections to vital locations, including the downtown Transit Center, Porterville College, Sierra View Medical Center, and the South County Justice Center.

In contrast, Concept 5 consolidates service into three routes with enhanced frequency. Route B would operate every 30 minutes along Morton Avenue, Henderson Avenue, and Main Street, providing direct service to both Porterville College and downtown. Meanwhile, Routes A and C would operate hourly, offering access to schools, medical facilities, and essential commercial destinations.

Infrastructure Developments Under Council Review

In addition to transportation discussions, the council is expected to approve notifications regarding two significant infrastructure projects. The completion of the “Center” Friant-Kern Canal Turnout and Basin Project, managed by Romanazzi General Engineering, is on the agenda. This project involved the installation of new water pipelines, concrete structures, and earthworks, costing approximately $1.69 million, which is just under the authorized budget of $1.7 million. This initiative was crucial for the city’s compliance with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act.

Another project under consideration is the Butterfield Stage Corridor, an active transportation corridor spanning 3.9 miles along the former Southern Pacific Railway line. With costs approaching $24 million, the project aims to enhance walking and biking infrastructure. It will feature solar lighting, water stations, benches, and controlled crossing systems. During construction, city staff encountered significant rock formations, necessitating specialized drilling equipment and extending the project timeline. The cost of this additional work has risen to $1.86 million, prompting the council to consider an additional $500,000 from the Storm Drain Developer Fund and $200,000 from the Water Replacement Fund.

Hope Elementary School Water System Improvement

The council will also review the Hope Elementary School Water System Improvement Project, aimed at connecting the school to the city’s water system. Currently, the school relies on a single well that exceeds acceptable nitrate levels. New water mains are planned along South Indiana Street and West Teapot Dome Avenue. The project will install a 4-inch service connection and water meter, allowing the school to utilize the new water main for various needs, including irrigation and fire flow.

As part of the improvements, the existing well would be decommissioned, and fire hydrants would be positioned at least every 500 feet along the proposed alignment. By removing the well, the school would no longer draw groundwater, providing a long-term solution for water quality issues.

The upcoming council meeting promises to address critical infrastructure needs and improve public transportation, reflecting the city’s commitment to enhancing community connectivity and environmental sustainability.