Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) has secured nearly $104 million in federal funding for projects across California’s 20th District as part of the fiscal year 2026 appropriations bills. The legislation, which passed the House and Senate and was signed into law by President Trump, ends a partial government shutdown and provides funding for a range of local infrastructure, public safety, and national security initiatives.
“I was honored to partner with our community to deliver critical funding for California’s 20th District that strengthens our communities, invests in local water infrastructure, enhances public safety, and reinforces our national security,” said Congressman Fong. “Today’s House vote restores fiscal responsibility in Washington by reopening the government, cuts wasteful spending, and makes needed investments throughout the Central Valley. I thank President Trump for signing this important bill into law.”
In Fresno County, $2 million will be used to establish groundwater recharge basins across several irrigation districts. Bill Stretch, General Manager of the Fresno Irrigation District, stated: “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Representative Fong, the $2 million community project funding for the Upper Kings Water Resiliency Project marks a significant step forward in enhancing our Valley’s water security. These dollars will go towards ensuring that our communities and agricultural industry have reliable access to water for years to come. By focusing on sustainability and resilience, we are not just addressing immediate needs; we are building a foundation for future generations in the Valley.”
Kern County will receive funds for transportation improvements such as $3 million for advancing the Centennial Corridor connector ramp between State Route 99 and State Route 58. Chairman Phillip Peters of the Kern County Board of Supervisors commented: “Congressman Vince Fong’s leadership in securing $3 million in vital funding for the Centennial Corridor Connector Ramp is a major win for Kern County, strengthening roadway safety, easing traffic flow, and supporting efficient freight transportation between State Route 99 and State Route 58.” Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh added: “Securing $3 million in funding for the Centennial Corridor Connector Ramp is a key victory for Bakersfield. I’m grateful to Congressman Fong for delivering this investment, which will make our roads safer, keep traffic moving, and support the businesses and workers who rely on efficient transportation every day.”
Other allocations include $7 million to upgrade rocket testing facilities at Edwards Air Force Base; $5 million toward AI-enabled software upgrades within military security programs; $4 million supporting advanced work at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake; nearly $9 million to design a new Child Development Center at NAWS China Lake; over $1 million each toward Ridgecrest’s wastewater plant modernization and Cerro Coso Community College’s cybersecurity program.
John (Jay) Schlosser from TRIP noted: “The Thomas Roads Improvement Program (TRIP) team appreciates the continued support from Representative Fong in the form of this appropriation… With this appropriation, the project is fully funded… This project marks the final piece of a 20-year endeavor to dramatically improve access in Bakersfield.”
Justin Salters from Griffiss Institute said: “East Kern has a proud history of flight test and evaluation. The MACH Program builds on this legacy… We appreciate Rep. Fong’s leadership on the MACH Program and the positive impacts it will bring to our region.” Dr. Shawn Phillips emphasized: “The infrastructure funding for the AFRL Rocket Lab by Congressman Fong has been critical in ensuring national test capabilities don’t atrophy during such a critical time for our nation.”
Stephen Farmer from China Lake Alliance highlighted broader impacts: “Congressman Fong’s leadership in these investments will have a profound and enduring impact on both NAWS China Lake, Ridgecrest, and surrounding communities… Furthermore, funding for the Navy Rapid Capabilities Office ensures that China Lake will continue its progress in developing critical technologies essential for countering escalating global threats.”
Kings County projects include $3 million toward new headquarters facilities for fire services; over $17 million directed at Naval Air Station Lemoore improvements including an aircraft maintenance hangar; as well as investments supporting water conservation.
Rusty Robinson from Kings County Board said: “Congressman Fong really came through… The new Fire Department and Emergency Operations Center headquarters will give our firefighters…the space and tools they need… At the same time continued investment at NAS Lemoore strengthens base mission…”
Tulare County received funds such as $2 million expanding Visalia’s groundwater recharge capacity; over half-a-million dollars upgrading Tulare Police Department dispatch operations; more than $14 million finalizing requirements at Success Reservoir.
Visalia Mayor Brett Taylor stated: “The $2 million received …will have a lasting impact on our community… We respectfully thank Representative Fong…” Tulare Mayor Patrick Isherwood said: “On behalf of City of Tulare we are grateful … This investment will directly improve emergency response capabilities…” Eric Limas from Lower Tule River Irrigation Districts remarked: “We appreciate Congressman Vince Fong …for their leadership in securing $14.6M …for Success Reservoir Enlargement Project (SREP)…”
A directive also allows up to $15M after agency review toward NASA’s Making Advancements in Commercial Hypersonic (MACH) Program.
