Parks Commission advances projects, policies and initiatives during meeting

The Palm Springs Parks and Recreation Commission approved new park signage, facility rules and policy updates while receiving progress reports on major capital projects and long-range planning during its regular monthly meeting Monday.

Commissioners voted to move forward with new no-smoking and no-vaping signage in city parks in partnership with the Palm Springs Blue Zones Project. After discussion over design options and wording, the commission approved signage that clearly states the prohibition, includes Spanish translation and can later be integrated into a future citywide park signage program.

The commission also approved new indoor fitness center and gymnasium rules governing use of facilities at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center and the Demuth Community Center. The rules require all users to check in at the front desk with a membership card or pay a drop-in fee, return and re-rack weights after use, and wipe down and sanitize equipment following each workout.

Additional provisions prohibit amplified music and external sound equipment, ban swearing and fighting, and require members to report damaged equipment, injuries requiring first aid or any questionable activity to front desk staff. The rules also note that open fitness hours may be modified or canceled due to city programs, events or maintenance, and that users who violate the rules or the community centers code of conduct may be asked to leave.

Capital Projects and Construction Updates

Staff provided updates on ongoing and upcoming capital projects across the park system. The Demuth Park improvement project includes upgrades to both dog parks, parking lot improvements and construction of a new restroom building. Construction is expected to begin after contract approval.

The Desert Highland Park playground replacement received Measure J funding approval and is moving through procurement and engineering, with construction anticipated this spring. Staff also reported that work at Ruth Hardy Park is largely complete, with minor final adjustments pending.

The downtown splash pad project is nearing completion and expected to be finished by the end of February. Plans for the Victoria Park restroom replacement are moving toward a bid process later this month, with construction targeted for the summer.

Renovations at the Pavilion were also discussed, with staff reporting that demolition and remediation work are complete. Upcoming work will focus on technology upgrades, HVAC improvements and replacement of exterior doors and windows to improve security and energy efficiency.

Programming and Planning Initiatives

Staff outlined details of the city’s “50 Years of Sunrise Park: A Year of Play” initiative, a yearlong series of park-based events planned across the park system to celebrate Sunrise Park’s anniversary and promote outdoor recreation. Events are expected to rotate among city parks throughout the year, culminating in a large celebration at Sunrise Park in November.

The commission also received an update on implementation of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including progress on signage standardization, accessibility improvements, maintenance planning, sustainability efforts, programming and revenue tracking.

Facility Concerns and Operations

Concerns related to temporary pickleball facilities at Demuth Park were raised during ad hoc committee reports, including complaints about restroom access during construction. Staff said temporary conditions are expected to remain in place until permanent facilities are completed later this year.

The golf course ad hoc committee also reported maintenance and safety concerns at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, including structural repairs, restroom conditions, signage for cyclists and dog walkers, and ongoing discussions related to fees and facility operations.

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