New Water Infrastructure Coming to Downtown Bakersfield

California Water Service begins work on water main and hydrant upgrades in Wall and Service streets.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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California Water Service has started construction on two water infrastructure projects in downtown Bakersfield. The work includes installing 2,200 feet of new 10- and 8-inch water mains and adding three new fire hydrants, which the company says will improve water supply reliability and fire protection in the area.

Why it matters

These upgrades to the water system in downtown Bakersfield will help ensure the community has safe, reliable water for daily needs and support first responders in their efforts to protect the area.

The details

Cal Water crews will be working Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the projects located on Wall and Service streets. Temporary asphalt will be applied until the city completes a sewer project and the permanent paving can be done in August. Cal Water says they will work to minimize traffic delays and notify customers of any temporary water service interruptions.

  • Construction began on February 27, 2026.
  • The projects are expected to be completed in April 2026.
  • Permanent paving will be done in August 2026 after the city completes a sewer project.

The players

California Water Service

A water utility company providing water service to the Bakersfield area.

Rafael Molina

Bakersfield District Manager for California Water Service.

City of Bakersfield

The local government that will be coordinating with California Water Service on the permanent paving after completing a sewer project.

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What they’re saying

“Improvements like these keep the water system safe and reliable for our customers' daily needs and to support first responders as they work to protect our community, especially in our downtown. Our infrastructure improvement projects provide quality, service, and value to the communities we serve.”

— Rafael Molina, Bakersfield District Manager, California Water Service (bakersfieldnow.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These water infrastructure upgrades in downtown Bakersfield demonstrate California Water Service's commitment to providing reliable, high-quality water service and supporting the community's public safety needs through improved fire protection.