The special meeting of the Bakersfield City Council convened on September 5, 2024, at 12 PM, led by Mayor Karen K. Goh. The meeting began with a roll call, confirming the presence of all council members except Council Member Weir.

The primary agenda item was the Centennial Corridor E eastbound 58 to northbound 99 Loop Connector Project. City Manager Mr. Clegg explained the urgency of the meeting, noting that this was the seventh movement of a larger interchange project. He emphasized the importance of timely approval to secure grant funds and lock in bid prices, as the council was nearing the deadline for awarding the construction contract.

Interim Director Zach Meyer provided further details about the project, highlighting that the seventh movement would facilitate a seamless connection for eastbound traffic on Highway 58 to northbound 99. He noted that the project was critical for completing the interchange and that the council was on day 58 of a 60-day requirement to award the construction contract after the bid opening.

Meyer also addressed a previous funding shortfall of $6 million, which had been resolved with updated documentation from Caltrans, allowing for full funding of construction and engineering services. He recommended the council approve the contract based on this new information.

Vice Mayor Gonzales expressed gratitude to the staff for organizing the special meeting and acknowledged the potential savings for taxpayers. Following this, a motion was made to approve the contract, which passed with a vote, noting Council Member Weir's absence.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for council and mayor statements, although no additional comments were recorded. The council's swift action on this significant infrastructure project reflects their commitment to enhancing transportation efficiency in Bakersfield.