County secures nearly $7 million for infrastructure, public safety and community facilities

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San Bernardino County flag with mountain emblem and “1853” flies before the U.S. Capitol and a civic building under blue skies. — The nearly $7 million in federal Community Project Funding for seven county infrastructure, public safety and facility improvement projects was secured through the annual congressional appropriations process.

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.”

Sewer infrastructure and animal care

Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Redlands, secured approximately $3.1 million in funding for two county priorities in the Bloomington area.

Phase 1 of the Bloomington Septic to Sewer Conversion Project will receive approximately $1.1 million in funding. The project will 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.

“Modernizing Bloomington’s infrastructure is a key priority for our community,” said Vice Chair Baca, Jr., whose First District includes Bloomington. “Transitioning from septic to sewer systems will provide more reliable utility service and deliver lasting benefits for families and local businesses.”

The largest allocation — $2 million — will support construction of the county’s new Bloomington Animal Shelter and advance planning and design to renovate the existing Devore Animal Shelter. The Devore facility, originally built in the 1980s, will be transformed into a flexible emergency response space capable of housing horses, livestock and displaced animals during wildfires and other natural disasters, while also expanding kennel capacity and upgrading infrastructure.

“These improvements will ensure our region has modern, resilient animal care facilities that can serve residents and respond to emergencies for decades to come,” said Baca.

“Securing this funding means real, tangible improvements for families in Bloomington and across San Bernardino County,” Aguilar said. “By investing in projects that strengthen public health, emergency response and long-term community planning, we’re delivering federal resources where they can make the greatest impact.”

Behavioral health facility rehabilitation

Rep. Norma Torres, D-Pomona, secured $1.1 million to rehabilitate the Merrill Center Crisis Stabilization Unit in Fontana.

The facility serves as a mental health urgent care center for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric crises, stabilizing between 300 and 350 individuals each month. Nearly 30 percent of those served are at risk of homelessness or currently unhoused.

“Ensuring safe, modern facilities for behavioral health treatment is critical to protecting some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Supervisor Jesse Armendarez, whose Second District includes Fontana. “This funding allows us to improve both patient care and working conditions for staff.”

Planned renovations will enhance safety, durability and functionality through upgrades to common areas, commercial-grade kitchen equipment, security infrastructure, lighting and outdoor amenities.

“Access to quality mental health services saves lives,” said Torres. “I secured this critical federal funding to expand mental health care in Fontana and surrounding communities, ensuring that individuals experiencing a crisis have access to compassionate, lifesaving support in a safe and supportive environment. This investment reflects my commitment to delivering real resources that strengthen our local health infrastructure and protect our families.”

Airport, roadway and sewer improvements

Rep. Jay Obernolte, R-Hesperia, secured $2.75 million across three High Desert and desert-region projects.

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.

“Upgrading critical infrastructure at Twentynine Palms Airport strengthens emergency response capabilities and positions the region for continued economic growth,” said Rowe, whose Third District includes Twentynine Palms.

In Trona, $1 million will fund roadway repaving and bike path repairs along Trona Road, benefiting residents and students in the isolated desert community. The project includes chip-seal pavement treatment and additional rehabilitation strategies to improve safety and connectivity.

“Trona is a resilient but geographically isolated community, and safe, reliable roads are essential for residents, visitors and first responders,” said Supervisor Col. Paul Cook (Ret.), whose First District includes Trona. “This investment strengthens critical transportation links and supports the long-term stability and economic vitality of the region.”

Joshua Tree will receive $750,000 for Phase I pre-construction activities and preliminary analysis for a potential septic-to-sewer transition. Funding will support planning and a feasibility study, including for a potential sewer district and design work aimed at protecting groundwater quality and supporting sustainable tourism growth.

“Investing in modern wastewater infrastructure protects groundwater and helps preserve the desert ecosystem,” said Rowe, whose Third District includes Joshua Tree.

“The High Desert and our desert communities are not just growing, they are thriving,” said Obernolte. “As new businesses expand, tourism increases, and more families choose to put down roots here, strategic federal investments like these help ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with that progress and lay the foundation for long-term prosperity across our region.”

Sheriff’s search and rescue helicopter

Rep. Judy Chu, D-Monterey Park, secured approximately $1 million to assist with the purchase of a new search and rescue helicopter for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

“Our deputies regularly conduct complex rescue missions in challenging terrain and severe weather,” said Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman. “This investment strengthens our ability to save lives while ensuring the reliability of our aviation fleet.”

Since 2020, the department has conducted more than 100 rescue operations on Mt. Baldy in the Angeles National Forest alone. The addition of a new aircraft will help alleviate strain on the existing fleet and support life-saving missions throughout the county’s vast geographic area.

“San Bernardino County covers an expansive and diverse landscape, and search and rescue teams play a critical role in protecting residents and visitors,” Chu said. “This funding will help ensure deputies have the equipment they need to carry out lifesaving operations safely and effectively.”

Collectively, the nearly $7 million secured through the federal appropriations process reflects coordinated advocacy between the county and its congressional delegation.

By partnering with the local congressional delegation to support public infrastructure, behavioral health, animal care, public safety and community resiliency planning initiatives, the county is working to achieve the Countywide Vision.

Additional County Update News – March 5, 2026