The City of Beaumont is celebrating a major victory from the California Transportation Commission (CTC) to advance two transformative infrastructure projects: the Pennsylvania Grade Separation and State Route 60/Potrero Boulevard Interchange.
Pennsylvania Grade Separation: Safer Streets, Stronger Connections
The CTC officially adopted the Pennsylvania Grade Separation project for a potential award of $50.4 million, a critical step in positioning the City for funding one of Beaumont’s highest transportation priorities. The project will eliminate a dangerous at-grade rail crossing and replace it with a grade-separated underpass, preserving a four-lane roadway and adding sidewalks for pedestrian safety. The City of Beaumont has already committed over $8 million in local and regional funding to support this effort. With the CTC’s recommendation of $50.4 million through the Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP), the project is now just $15 million away from being fully funded for construction.
The TCEP funds will be made available once key milestones are met, including securing the remaining funding and completing all required environmental reviews and clearances. We are deeply grateful to the CTC, Caltrans, state leadership, and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for recognizing the urgency and value of this project and for significantly advancing our ability to deliver critical and long-due transportation infrastructure.
Potrero Interchange: Unlocking a Critical Corridor
The CTC formally obligated $33.5 million for Phase II of the Potrero Boulevard Interchange, enabling the City to move forward with construction activities. With grant funds now released, construction is slated for this fall 2025 — advancing the City’s $80 million plan to modernize the SR-60 corridor and ease traffic for commuters and freight haulers alike. The project includes a new six-ramp partial cloverleaf interchange, extended acceleration and deceleration lanes, and the realignment of Western Knolls Avenue. These improvements will reduce congestion, improve air quality, and unlock new opportunities for economic and industrial development throughout the region. The City extends its sincerest appreciation to the CTC, Riverside County Transportation Commission, state leadership, and the FHWA for their continued investment in Beaumont’s infrastructure and future.
“This historic investment is a game-changer for Beaumont,” said Mayor Mike Lara. “We’re building safer roads, providing faster commutes, and improving emergency response times. These projects move us closer to our goal of a better-connected and more efficient traffic flow for our city and region.”
Construction timelines and community outreach opportunities will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information on city services and programs, visit www.beaumontca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.