BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — This year marks the second time the state is implementing Opportunity Zones, building on the first round held in 2018 that spurred investment in downtown Bakersfield. "What we're really excited about downtown is economic impact that it can have on our region and the growth and the job force and the housing and retail that can happen downtown," Smith said. After opening three luxury housing properties through that first project, Smith says he is disappointed that downtown Bakersfield has not been considered for this year's Opportunity Zone program. Out of 27 proposed zones in Bakersfield, only a handful have moved to the next round of consideration. The City of Bakersfield has also weighed in, saying in a statement officials do not understand:"...Why opportunity zones in the downtown and urban core have not been included.