Kern Council of Governments (Kern COG) March 19, 2026 Meetings

The Kern Council of Governments (Kern COG) Transportation Planning Policy Committee met on March 19, 2026, to discuss various transportation funding and project updates. Key procurement-related topics included the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TRCP) Cycle 8, with a statewide funding estimate of $950 million, encouraging local agencies to creatively apply for transit-related projects. The Active Transportation Program (ATP) Cycle also received attention, with a $619 million fund estimate over four years and Kern COG's target funding of approximately $7.9 million. Updates on federal transportation improvement program amendments, ongoing and upcoming construction projects, and grant opportunities were provided. The committee also discussed the inclusion of phase two of the truck climbing lanes project in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), with an estimated $25 million allocated. Additionally, the meeting covered staffing changes, upcoming conferences, and coordination efforts with state agencies and high-speed rail representatives. Motions were passed to approve consent agenda items and to re-elect Bob Smith as chairman and Phil Smith as vice chairman of the board.