Country musician Merle Haggard, who was born and raised in Oildale, was recognized Feb. 13 with a street. Formerly known as Seventh Standard Road, the road is now called Merle Haggard Drive, which starts at North Chester Avenue and reaches west to Highway 99.
According to Kern County information, “Haggard is one of the early innovators of ‘The Bakersfield Sound.'” Though Haggard was popular in the ’70s, he “continues to release successful albums.” Haggard currently has 38 number-one hits and a 2006 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Not only was Haggard commemorated with a street, Feb. 13 is also now known as “Merle Haggard Day.” Also, according to Kern County information, the day was an official launch “to establish a green belt adjacent to Merle Haggard Drive.” The zone will be known as “Hag’s Place.”