Palm Springs parking study reveals underutilized spaces, recommends improvements

A recently-completed parking study in Downtown Palm Springs offers a series of recommendations to improve the parking experience for residents, employees, and visitors.

The assessment, conducted by DIXON Resources Unlimited and funded by PS Resorts, analyzed both on-street and off-street parking, finding that the average occupancy rate was just 29%, with on-street parking more impacted than off-street facilities.

The company also found that weekday parking (32% occupancy) was more impacted than weekend parking (27% occupancy). Notably, the noon hour was the most congested across all data collection dates, with a 35% occupancy rate. 

“There is a general lack of uniformity located throughout the study area in terms of signage and wayfinding, which makes for a confusing experience for both locals and visitors,” the report states.

To address these issues, the study recommends implementing consistent, comprehensive signage throughout the downtown area. This includes exploring opportunities for static and digital signage along Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Canyon Drive, displaying real-time capacity information for off-street parking garages, including those located underground that can hold hundreds of vehicles.

The report, which follows a series of community meetings last fall, also suggests adjusting on-street parking time limits to encourage compliance and turnover, and that, “Employees will be directed to park in off-street locations, therefore maximizing the availability of the curb and increasing turnover.”

A key recommendation is the establishment of an employee parking permit program. The existing municipal code allows for employee permits to be issued for a fee to qualified individuals, exempting them from posted time limits. The study proposes updating this language to prohibit overnight vehicle storage and clarify enforcement procedures.

Maintenance and upkeep of parking facilities, particularly garages, were identified as areas needing improvement. The report’s authors recommends introducing a routine maintenance plan for both downtown parking garages, including regular sweeping, power-washing, and painting.

“Incorporate preventative measures that discourage skateboarding, roller skating, scooter-riding, etc. to promote the safety of the community,” the study advises for the downtown parking garage.

To enhance the aesthetic appeal of parking structures, the report suggests exploring the feasibility of commissioning local artists to revitalize both parking garages with a uniform design that captures the essence of Palm Springs.

The study revealed that most parkers (92%) stayed for short durations of 0-3 hours, indicating a bustling commercial area. To further promote turnover, the report recommends establishing a no re-parking ordinance to deter abuse of on-street parking regulations.

While not likely to be adopted by city officials, the report also proposed the possibility of introducing a special event parking management plan that could include paid parking during events at the soon-to-be restored Plaza Theater, during Palm Springs Pride, VillageFest, and other major gatherings. It also suggests the city update its charter to allow for the possible implementation of paid parking systems in the future.

To improve enforcement, the study recommends modernizing the parking management program and utilizing license plate recognition technology to optimize enforcement and assist in data collection.

Looking to the future, the study suggests exploring a micro-shuttle or circulator program — similar to the Buzz Bus that used to be seen on city streets on VillageFest evenings and weekends — to provide alternative mobility options for residents, employees, and visitors.

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