Pumpkin Center Water Crossings: State Certified Caltrans Work Near Randall Ditch in 2023

PUMPKIN CENTER, Kern County — November 10, 2026. Highway 119 rehabilitation near Pumpkin Center involves more than pavement. California’s Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board lists a Section 401 water quality certification issued December 26, 2023 for Caltrans Project 06-0V610, Pumpkin Center 3R Rehab, under reference WDID 5C15CR00146.

Why the water review matters

The state certification directory documents the regulatory process for activities that may affect waters, ditches or drainage features. A separate CIWQS record identifies the Pumpkin Center Randall Ditch location in the Caltrans project. Irrigation and drainage infrastructure needs proper permits when construction crosses or alters protected waters.

What the 2023 certification does not establish

A state water quality certification is an environmental authorization associated with planned work. It does not establish that the ditch has been dredged or restored as of November 2026, that all drainage problems were solved, or that residents’ drinking water has been tested. It also should not be confused with a final Caltrans project acceptance, or with an emergency road closure.

How residents can follow progress

The Caltrans project page describes road improvements, drainage changes and pedestrian facilities. For exact construction or ditch work near a parcel, request current plans, a crossing permit and work schedules from Caltrans District 6, and check any notices from the water authority that operates the specific ditch. Motorists should continue to use Caltrans traffic updates for active lane restrictions.

Sources: Central Valley Regional Water Board adopted Section 401 certifications; State CIWQS Pumpkin Center Randall Ditch record; Caltrans project 06-0V610. Reviewed November 10, 2026.

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