San Bernardino County projects receive nearly $7 million in federal funds

San Bernardino County is receiving nearly $7 million in federal Community Project Funding for seven local infrastructure, public safety and facility improvement projects secured by members of the county’s congressional delegation.

The funding — included in federal appropriations legislation for the current fiscal year — will support upgrades to animal shelters, wastewater and sewer infrastructure, behavioral health services, aviation facilities, roadway improvements and the Sheriff’s Department search and rescue fleet.

Community Project Funding, formerly known as earmarks, allows members of Congress to request direct federal investments for specific projects in their districts during the annual appropriations process.

“This funding demonstrates what is possible when local priorities are elevated to the federal level,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “We appreciate the leadership of our congressional delegation in securing federal resources that will have long-term benefits for communities across San Bernardino County.”

The funding will go towards:

• Bloomington Septic to Sewer Conversion Project will receive approximately $1.1 million to extend approximately 1,200 linear feet of sewer mainline along Valley Boulevard to Alder Ave., replacing reliance on aging septic systems and laying the groundwork for future expansion.
• Construction of the Bloomington Animal Shelter will receive $2 million.
• The Merrill Center Crisis Stabilization Unit, a mental health urgent care center for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric crises in Fontana will receive $1.1 million for rehabilitation.
• The Twentynine Palms Airport will receive $1 million for electrical and water infrastructure upgrades, including conversion to a three-phase power system to support reliable water pumping and fire suppression capabilities.
• In Trona, $1 million will fund roadway repaving and bike path repairs along Trona Road.
• Joshua Tree will receive $750,000 for Phase I pre-construction activities and preliminary analysis for a potential septic-to-sewer transition.
• Approximately $1 million will assist the purchase of a new search and rescue helicopter for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.