Second Street Extension Celebrated In Beaumont

BEAUMONT, CA — Train stoppages in the Pass Area have long caused traffic backups and delays along the community's key transportation corridors.

Some of those headaches should end.

Last week, Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) joined the city of Beaumont and Mayor Mike Lara to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the Second Street Extension, a major infrastructure project designed to ease traffic congestion and improve safety across the region, and give motorists an alternative east-west route when Union Pacific trains unexpectedly stop in the area.

The Second Street extension goes from the westerly boundary of the Home Depot shopping center to Pennsylvania Avenue. The improvements included extending Second Street approximately 2,525 feet and widening the road.

"By improving accessibility and reducing delays, this project will help families spend less time in traffic and more time where it matters most," Ruiz said in a released statement. "I’m proud to have secured $1 million in federal funding to make this project a reality for the people of Beaumont and our entire region."

Beaumont’s rapid population and commercial growth have increased pressure on key routes, such as First Street between Highland Springs Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue. Heavy congestion, combined with train stoppages, created significant delays for drivers, emergency responders and local businesses.

“We are grateful to Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D., a steadfast champion for Beaumont, whose support helped make projects like Pennsylvania Avenue and the 2nd Street Extension possible," Lara said. "He is investing in real projects that make a tangible difference for our residents."