Crucial route into, out of city partially reopens ahead of schedule ⋆ The Palm Springs Post

Motorists negotiate a temporary route through the wash along North Indian Canyon Drive Monday in Palm Springs. *(Photo: Andrea Talkington)*

North Indian Canyon Drive through the wash has now partially reopened as of Monday afternoon.

Driving the news: City officials announced street crews were able to open two newly constructed temporary lanes along North Indian Canyon Drive at the wash, once again opening a crucial path into the city and Desert Regional Medical Center.

A new four-way stop has also been installed at Palm Springs Station Road and North Indian Canyon Drive. Motorists are advised to use caution when crossing the construction zone.

Looking back: Tropical Storm Hilary laid waste to Indian Canyon and several other streets throughout the Coachella Valley. Most other roads had opened, except for this one.

The reopening comes ahead of schedule. As of late August, city officials predicted it could close well into October.

Background: It’s no surprise the road was damaged during the storm. It’s frequently closed when there’s rain or wind. But this time, it closed for several weeks because four feet of mud needed to be removed to rebuild the street.

Utility lines and fiber optic cables also needed to be repaired, further delaying reopening.

Zoom out: The latest closure highlights the need for state money to help fund a pre-fabricated bridge for $75 million that can be installed over the road. At the most recent Palm Springs City Council meeting, councilmembers and staff said they have had discussions with the governor’s staff to keep the issue at the top of their minds.

“I want to say that they were extremely receptive,” Councilmember Lisa Middleton said of the city’s request for $50 million in state funding.
The rest of the money would come from the other nine valley cities that comprise the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG).

What to watch for: Middleton also mentioned that the city has met with Rep. Ken Calvert to look into the opportunity for federal funding for another solution on Gene Autry Trail.

She wanted to remind residents that the city has secured federal funding for a project on Vista Chino, but it has yet to start.

Bottom line: “A big thank you to our street crews for their hard work and ingenuity making this happen,” said City Manager Scott Stiles of the Monday opening. “I am extremely proud of this incredibly dedicated team for putting in the hours and going the extra mile.”