Plans progress for Palmdale's planned grade separation

Last month, the city of Palmdale, California, learned it secured $2 million in federal funding to advance a grade separation project at Rancho Vista Boulevard. 

The funding will support right-of-way acquisition and utility relocation costs for a long-planned bridge at the intersection of Rancho Vista Boulevard, Sierra Highway and a double-track grade crossing of Metrolink and Union Pacific Railroad tracks.  

The city plans to create a six-lane grade separation that includes access ramps to Sierra Highway. The bridge is designed to enhance safety and reduce traffic congestion for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians and trains, Palmdale officials said in a press release. 

“The grade separation will mean the end of delays caused by rail activity, more predictable travel across town and improved access through a corridor that serves neighborhoods, businesses and key routes used by first responders,” they said. 

The project also will support operations at a U.S. Air Force plant in Palmdale, which employs about 12,000 in the area, city officials said. That workforce is expected to grow to 16,000 over time. 

“This project strengthens our position as a hub for aerospace and defense,” said Palmdale Mayor Eric Ohlsen.