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1300+The southbound Highway 99 off-ramp to Stockdale Highway in Bakersfield will close permanently on Friday, Nov. 20, 2026. The closure was initially planned for August 2022 but was put on hold after pushback from residents.
Drivers who use this exit to reach southwest Bakersfield should start planning a new route now.
What Is Happening at the Stockdale Highway Off-Ramp
According to the city of Bakersfield, the closure is part of the Centennial Corridor Project and the Thomas Roads Improvement Program (TRIP). Electronic message boards will begin alerting drivers on Friday, Nov. 6.
The Stockdale exit has long been described as the last piece of an interim connection between Highway 99 and Highway 58. With the northbound ramp already gone, the southbound exit has been the only one left standing.
Why the Closure Was Delayed
Caltrans and the city postponed the 2022 closure after residents spoke up. Bakersfield City Councilman Andrae Gonzales said at the time that people feared losing easy access to businesses, hospitals, and Cal State Bakersfield.
Officials say the closure was always part of the Centennial Corridor plans and is meant to meet state safety standards. City officials have also pointed to a Caltrans policy that does not allow a southbound off-ramp without a northbound counterpart.
Who Will Feel the Change Most
Stockdale Highway is the main route to Cal State Bakersfield. Past coverage also noted that Mercy Southwest Hospital and Kaiser Permanente’s Stockdale medical offices sit close to the exit. Commuters, students, patients, and delivery drivers who rely on this ramp will need a new way in.
Drivers who are unfamiliar with alternate exits are more likely to brake suddenly or cross lanes, so a little preparation goes a long way.
What Comes Next for Highway 99 and Highway 58
The next phase of construction at the Highway 58 and 99 interchange is expected to begin in late 2027. That project will create a direct freeway connection from southbound Highway 99 to westbound Highway 58.
Once complete, the connection should reduce the frequency with which drivers need to use local roads to make that move.
How to Stay Safe During the Transition
Changes to a familiar route can catch drivers off guard. Sudden lane changes, missed exits, and heavy traffic on surface streets all raise the risk of a collision.
A few simple habits can help:
- Plan your new route before you leave, rather than while driving.
- Watch for the message boards and posted detour signs.
- Leave extra time so you are not tempted to rush.
- Avoid last-second lane changes near ramps.
When the 2022 closure was first announced, the city pointed southbound drivers to the California Avenue and White Lane exits. Check the City of Bakersfield official website for the current guidance before Nov. 20.
If You Are Hurt in a Crash Near a Construction Zone
Crashes near ramps and work zones can involve more than one at-fault party, including drivers, contractors, or public agencies. Assigning fault to ensure fair compensation will be very difficult.
If you were injured, an experienced personal injury lawyer can explain your legal options and deal with the insurance companies while you recover. Our law offices help victims across Kern County pursue the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Talk to Attorney Jeff for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one was injured in Kern County or the neighboring area, contact our law offices at (661) 490-9440 for a free case evaluation.
About the Author
JEFFREY FAYNGOR, ESQ.
Jeffrey Fayngor is the founder of Attorney Jeff Car Accident Lawyer and an experienced personal injury attorney dedicated to representing accident victims. He earned his J.D. from Whittier College School of Law and has recovered over $120 million for injured clients. He has built his practice around helping injury victims protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.