Jan. 21 Daily Briefing: What parking study says, PSP data, shade project progress, and more

Welcome to Tuesday! Yesterday it was pointed out by a reader that we failed to report on the presidential inauguration, so we thought this would be a good time to remind you about our mission: As a community news outlet, we cover Palm Springs. That’s it. If the inauguration was held here, we would have reported on it. But it wasn’t. So we didn’t. And, unless somebody from our city is elected president in 2028 (if you’re running, please reach out!), we’ll report on the 2029 inauguration exactly the same way — we won’t. If you’re depending on us to cover Washington D.C., we’re sorry to disappoint you. But if it’s Palm Springs news you want, read on!

🎶 Setting the mood: “Chasing Pavements” by Adele

LEADING OFF

Parking study reveals underutilization, recommends improvements

A recent parking study covering Downtown Palm Springs found that the average occupancy rate is just 29%, with weekday parking more impacted than weekends. The assessment offered recommendations to enhance the parking experience for residents, employees, and visitors.

Driving the news: The study, commissioned by PS Resorts and released after a series of public meetings, reveals a lack of uniformity in signage and wayfinding, creating confusion for both locals and visitors.

• The noon hour was found to be the most congested, with a 35% occupancy rate.

Why it matters: Implementing the study’s recommendations could significantly improve downtown parking efficiency and user experience.

• Proposed changes include consistent signage, adjusted time limits, and an employee parking permit program.

In addition: The study suggests exploring paid parking to manage on-street occupancy and increase turnover, an option many larger cities have started to implement.

• This move aims to encourage employees to use off-street parking facilities, potentially improving access for shoppers and visitors.
  
  
• There are already several lots downtown with paid parking, but they are all private lots, not city-controlled lots.

What’s next: City planners were encouraged to consider a micro-shuttle or circulator program to provide alternative mobility options in the downtown area.

• A special event parking management plan is also proposed, potentially including paid parking during major gatherings.

Dive deeper with our complete story

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BRIEFLY

✈️ City airport narrowly misses record year, eyes growth in 2025

Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) fell just 0.2% short of matching its 2023 passenger record in 2024. Despite challenges, officials are optimistic about growth in 2025, with early months showing promising increases in passenger seat counts.

• The total passenger counts for 2024 came in at about 3.23 million, about 6,000 fewer passengers compared to 2023. Airport official pointed to key factors like the grounding of the Boeing 737Max planes and construction at San Francisco International (SFO) runway which at times reduced flight capacity by 50%.
  
  
• Despite narrowly missing a new annual record, PSP is poised for growth in 2025, with scheduled seat counts showing increases of 3% in February, 6.8% in March, and 10.3% in April.
  
  
• What’s next: PSP is exploring a partnership with Landline, a luxury bus service, to provide seamless ground transportation to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Lunchtime Music On The Patio
11:30 a.mm | Welwood Murray Memorial Library
Every Tuesday in January, the Welwood Murray Memorial Library downtown is offering a chill lunchtime live music program from the Simon Duo, with Adriana Simon on vocals and Robert Simon on acoustic guitar.

Walk of Star Ceremony Honoring Phil Ford and Mimi Hines
2 p.m. | Downtown Park
The legendary musical comedy duo Phil Ford & Mimi Hines will be honored with the 473rd Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. The star will be unveiled in a ceremony celebrating one of the most enduring and dynamic musical duos in entertainment history. 

Queer Colon Care Collective
5 p.m. | Virtual
This support group is open to LGBTQ+ colorectal cancer patients, survivors, or caregivers. Organizers will offer resources and a sense of community in a safe place to share experiences. 

Melba Miller’s Jazz Oasis
5:30 p.m. | Cultural Center
Join songstress Melba Miller and special guests for an evening dedicated to serious listeners and lovers of Jazz. ($22)

Sustainability Commission
5:30 p.m. | City Hall
According to the agenda, commissioners will hear reports from each of its standing subcommittees including waste reduction, climate action, and others in addition to updates on a tree ordinance and sustainability-related Measure J projects.

SAVE THE DATE

• “The Light in the Piazza” at Coachella Valley repertory starting Wednesday. ($90)
  
  
• An Evening with figure skater Randy Gardner at the Cultural Center on Thursday. ($27)
  
  
• Library Book Sale at the Palm Springs Public Library on Friday.
  
  
• Desert Open Studios 2025 starting Friday.
  
  
• “Addicted Idol” staged reading at Revolution Stage Company on Saturday. ($10)
  
  
• Community Clean-Up event at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center on Saturday.
  
  
• Palm Springs Health Run & Wellness Festival on Saturday.
  
  
• Black History Committee Awards Gala at the Hilton Palm Springs on Feb. 1. ($100)
  
  
• Boston Brass Live in concert on Feb. 4 at PSHS. ($15-$25)
  
  
• Desert Pet Walk at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter on Feb. 22.

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AND FINALLY …

The Palm Springs Public Arts Commission unanimously chose Roger Reutimann’s “Desert Bloom” proposal for a $50,000 shade structure in a Palm Springs park. The colorful, umbrella-like sculpture will provide seating and shade for park visitors, with installation expected by September 2025.

Driving the news: The commission praised the design for its joyful and bright aesthetic, enhancing the park experience for residents and visitors alike.

• The sculpture, inspired by Slim Aarons’ iconic “Poolside Gossip” photograph, reflects Palm Springs’ mid-century modern heritage.

Why it matters: The project is part of the larger “Beautiful Shade” initiative aimed at enhancing public spaces with functional art.

The details: Safety and durability are key considerations in the selection process. The artist, Reutimann, already has his art, “Cadillactus”, featured in the city in the median of East Tahquitz Canyon Way. Chair Gary Armstrong said, “His fabrication is top notch, and overall I was impressed with his background.”

• The structure will be 15 feet tall and 17 feet wide and made of steel and fiberglass and decorated with automotive paint. The commission’s only change was to put in dividers on the seating area.

In addition: Because commissioners did not receive any submissions for a $5,000 installation and found the submissions for the $25,000 installation less compelling, they decided to combine the two amounts and approach artist Addie Boswell with $30,000 to see if she could design something for that amount.

• Commissioners admired her “Dragonfly Gazebo” design.

What’s next: The commission plans to consult with the Parks Department to determine optimal placement within their suggested park, Ruth Hardy Park.

• Suggestions include positioning near areas where families watch soccer practices or in spaces lacking shade.