Parlier to pursue $45M in grant-funded capital projects including pedestrian safety and wastewater upgrades

Javier, the city engineer, told council that the city has targeted roughly $45.1 million in capital investments funded largely by grants and special funds rather than the general fund.

Key projects discussed include: a $3 million Active Transportation Program (ATP) funded "limitless lanes" shared pedestrian/bicycle facility and a separate ~$6 million ATP award for school-area bulb‑outs and raised crosswalks; a $4.3 million flood‑control/groundwater‑banking project under construction; an $8 million wastewater grant to add Bilect filtration at the wastewater plant to improve treatment capacity and effluent quality; and a rails‑to‑trails conversion (about $2.7 million) that will turn an old rail alignment into a multi‑use path. Javier also described a $1 million STBG award to address safety and sidewalk gaps along Zedek Avenue, including canal undergrounding and a new crosswalk at Parlier Avenue.

Javier said the roundabout project is grant‑funded (about $1.6 million) with modest land‑acquisition costs and that roundabouts reduce severe collisions and improve traffic flow. He also noted ongoing work to integrate recharge basins with parks and sports fields where feasible to maximize public benefits.

Council members asked for timing and construction schedules; Javier said several projects are in design and slated for construction in the coming year, and staff will return formal agenda items and bid packages for council approval when ready.