OILEDALE, Calif. -- For the second time, Supervisor Mike Maggard has convinced the state to put some money into making Oildale's streets a little safer.

Maggard asked for the state money in his ongoing effort to make the streets of Oildale a safer place to walk. The California Department of Transportation has approved Maggard’s request for $510,700 for curbs, gutters and sidewalks in East Bakersfield and Oildale.

“This is great news, especially in light of the state's budget meltdown. We are grateful the California Department of Transportation has been responsive to the needs of those whom we serve,” exclaimed Maggard. “Both projects will improve the quality of life for our community. Our children will be safer as they walk to and from school as the result of these projects."

The $510,700 represents two projects within the 3rd Supervisorial District. Construction of the first project, in the amount of $113,850, will take place on the south side of Woodrow Avenue in Oildale benefitting the students in the Beardsley Elementary area. The second project will cost $396,450 and will occur along Eucalyptus Drivr., Park Drive., and Foothill Road benefiting the students at Voorhies Elementary and Foothill High School. Construction is projected to be completed prior to the beginning of school in August 2010.

The state funded program was established to help reduce injuries and fatalities among children who walk and bicycle to school. The money is allocated based on a point system and is awarded based on safety concerns. New sidewalks will be installed along Woodrow ave and Sanford Drive in Oildale.

California was the first state in the country to legislate its own safe routes to school program with dedicated funding from the state highway account.