BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Construction has been completed on the Kern River Canal Backup Weir, a vital piece of water infrastructure for Bakersfield, the city announced.
The weir, just east of the Coffee Road bridge, is now operational. The city stated that the weir enables Bakersfield’s water department to control floodwater and divert Kern River water for various purposes.
The weir was damaged by high flows in 2019 and again in 2023, making it non-operational. Construction began in February 2025.
The reconstructed weir will enhance the city’s ability to manage water flows more efficiently, which will reduce flooding risk, protecting property…