California is poised for a transformative year in 2025, with numerous construction projects across the state. These initiatives span various sectors, including transportation, housing, commercial development, and infrastructure, reflecting California’s commitment to modernization and sustainability.
Transportation Projects
Brightline West High-Speed Rail: Construction is ramping up on the Brightline West high-speed rail line, a $12-billion project connecting Southern California to Las Vegas. Spanning 218 miles along the Interstate 15 corridor, trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 200 miles per hour, significantly reducing travel time between these major hubs.
Foothill Extension Phase 2B: The Metro A Line (formerly Gold Line) is extending eastward from Pomona to Montclair. With substantial completion of the segment to Pomona achieved in early 2025, construction from Pomona to Montclair is slated to begin in spring 2025, aiming for a 2030 completion. This extension will enhance connectivity across the San Gabriel Valley.
OC Streetcar: In Orange County, the OC Streetcar project is progressing, with the Harbor Transit Center in Garden Grove serving as the western terminus. Once operational, it will provide a vital link between Santa Ana and Garden Grove, improving local transit options.
Housing Developments
Innovation Park in Sacramento: The former Sleep Train Arena site is being transformed into Innovation Park, a master-planned community featuring 2,500 housing units, including 10% designated as affordable housing. The development will also host the California Northstate University Medical Center, parks, schools, and retail spaces. Infrastructure construction is expected to begin in 2025, addressing the region’s growing housing needs.
“Small Lots, Big Impacts” Initiative: UCLA’s cityLAB has launched this project to convert vacant city-owned land into affordable starter homes. By inviting architects and designers to propose innovative housing solutions, the initiative aims to address housing shortages in urban areas.
Commercial and Mixed-Use Developments
In Pico Rivera, plans are underway for a massive 305-acre mixed-use district. The development encompasses various zones, including low-rise and high-rise multifamily properties totaling over 2,300 units with ground-floor commercial space. Additionally, the project includes approximately 1.7 million square feet of commercial space and 860,000 square feet designated for industrial use. This ambitious initiative aims to revitalize the area and stimulate economic growth.
Baldwin Hills Costco Development: In South Los Angeles, a pioneering mixed-use project is set to begin in early 2025. This $425 million development will feature a Costco warehouse with 800 apartment units above it, including 184 units designated for low-income households. The project aims to address housing affordability while providing convenient retail access.
Infrastructure and Environmental Initiatives
Sites Reservoir: Addressing California’s water storage needs, the Sites Reservoir project in the Sacramento Valley is slated for construction commencement in 2025, with operations targeted by 2030. Once completed, it will hold up to 1.5 million acre-feet of water, enhancing the state’s water resilience during droughts.
El Capitan State Beach Renovation: Near Santa Barbara, El Capitan State Beach will undergo a $5.5 million renovation starting in early 2025. The project includes updating camping facilities, improving stormwater runoff management, and modernizing roads. While overnight camping will be suspended during construction, the park will remain open for day use.
These projects underscore California’s dynamic approach to development, balancing urban growth with environmental stewardship and community enhancement. As these initiatives unfold, they promise to reshape the state’s landscape, economy, and quality of life for its residents.
How Certis Solutions Can Help
As California embarks on a wave of construction projects in 2025, the demand for skilled professionals across architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) will only continue to grow. That’s where Certis Solutions comes in.
As a trusted AEC staffing agency, Certis Solutions connects top-tier talent with leading firms across California. Whether you’re ramping up a large infrastructure project, breaking ground on a new mixed-use development, or need specialized engineers for sustainable building initiatives, Certis provides:
- Qualified professionals in construction management, civil engineering, architecture, project controls, and more
- Flexible staffing solutions including contract, contract-to-hire, and direct placement
- Speed and precision, helping firms scale quickly without sacrificing quality
- Industry insight, with recruiters who understand the complexities and timelines of AEC projects
From high-speed rail to affordable housing developments, Certis Solutions supports the teams shaping California’s future. If your project is launching in 2025, now’s the time to ensure you’ve got the right people on the ground.
Contact us to learn how we can help build your team—and your next big milestone.
