CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Principal Planner
REQUEST: APPROVE 2024/25 WORK PLAN FOR THE CULTURAL RESOURCE
PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the 2024/25 Annual Work Plan for the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On March 27, 2024, the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee (CRPC) met and set up priorities and objectives for the 2024/2025 Fiscal Year based off a survey of priorities submitted by the CRPC members. A staff report with details on the priorities and objectives identified by the CRPC can be found attached to this report. At the March 27th meeting, the CRPC established and provided more details on five (5) priority items to present to the City Council, which are summarized in Table 1 below:
Table 1 – FY 24/25 CRPC Work Plan
Priority Description Cost Time/Process
City wide
survey
Conduct a city-wide cultural resources
survey, complete with GIS resources,
and provide quarterly updates.
Estimate:
$40,000
Time: 6-9 months
Next Steps: RFP has been sent out to
conduct survey. Staff will provide updates
at each subsequent CRPC meeting
Update the
website
Update CRPC presence on city website
to have correct and updated
information.
City staff
time
Time: 3 months
Next Steps: City staff will work with Public
Affairs to update and refresh website
Education
Provide educational resources for new
CRPC members and for residents and
visitors, such as booklets and training.
Provide a “California Preservation
Foundation” (CPF) collaborator
membership which provides a wide
range of training material.
Estimate:
$10,000
Time: Ongoing
Next Steps: Staff will set up a collaborator
CPF membership, seek additional
educational resources to provide to CRPC,
and seek options on public education
(booklets/pamphlets)
CLG
Designation
Begin the process of an application to
the California state historic
preservation office for a Certified
Local Government designation.
City staff
time
Time: 9-12 months
Next Steps: Wait for city wide survey to
conclude then City staff will work on
submittal of application
Mills Act
Support current Mills Act actions and
reports to Committee and City Council
as required.
City staff
time
Time: Ongoing
Next Steps: Staff will update the Mills Act
guidelines and provide quarterly reports
to CRPC on Mills Act applications
City of Palm Desert
CRPC FY 24/25 Work Plan______________________________________________________
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s office.
Strategic Plan:
Implementation of the work plan will support Priority 1 of the Palm Desert Strategic Plan by assessing the current cultural landscape of the City.
CRPC Recommendation:
The CRPC at its regular meeting of March 27, 2024, recommended the City Council approve of the Work Plan as presented in Table 1 of this report.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Costs identified in the work plan have been proposed in the 2024/25 Development Services Budget.
ATTACHMENT:
1. March 27, 2024, CRPC Staff Report
CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: March 27, 2024
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Principal Planner
REQUEST: CULTURAL RESOURCES PRESERVATION COMMITTEE WORK PLAN PRIORITY RANKING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024/2025
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Recommend the City Council approve the draft Cultural Resources Preservation Committee (CRPC) Work Plan for the 2024/2025 Fiscal Year, as presented in Table 3 of the staff report BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On February 2, 2024, City Staff asked each CRPC member to provide a ranked list of CRPC priorities they would like to focus on for Fiscal Year 2024/2025. The top five (5) goals selected by the CRPC will form the basis of a workplan that will be presented to City Council. Five (5) CRPC members ranked their top goals which are provided as Attachment 1 of this memorandum. Priorities that were raised by multiple committee members are listed below in Table 1:
Table 1 – Multiple Vote Priorities
Committee
Votes
Priority Description
4 City wide
survey
Conduct a city-wide cultural resources survey, complete with GIS resources, and provide quarterly updates.
3 Update the
website
Update CRPC presence on city website to have correct and updated information.
3 Education Provide educational resources for new CRPC members and for residents and visitors, such as booklets and trainings.
The following are priorities that were provided by only one CRPC member:
Table 2 – Singular Vote Priorities
Priority Description
Certificate of Appropriateness
Application Process and Update
Update current process of applications for certificates of appropriateness and process submitted applications from landowners in a timely manner.
CLG Designation Begin the process of an application to the California state historic preservation office for a Certified Local Government designation. “Tallest tree smallest park” A national landmark for Palm Desert.
Mills Act Support current Mills Act actions and reports to Committee and City Council as required.
Preservation of native plants on
city property
Native plants that originate on city property don’t require water but benefit from it. We need an educated horticulture department.
Cultural Resources Preservation Committee
City of Palm Desert
Work Plan FY 24/25
Staff’s recommendation is to add the CLG Designation and Mills Act priorities to the FY 2024/2025 Work Plan since they were on the FY 2023/2024 CRPC Work Plan and received a vote for the 2024/2025 Work Plan. If accepted, the draft Work Plan presented to City Council would be as follows:
Table 3 – Draft FY 24/25 CRPC Work Plan
Priority Description Cost Time/Process
City wide
survey
Conduct a city-wide cultural
resources survey, complete with GIS
resources, and provide quarterly
updates.
Estimate:
$70,000
Time: 6-9 months
Next Steps: RFP has been sent out to
conduct survey. Staff will provide updates
at each subsequent CRPC meeting
Update the
website
Update CRPC presence on city
website to have correct and updated
information.
City staff
time
Time: 3 months
Next Steps: City staff will work with Public
Affairs to update and refresh website
Education
Provide educational resources for
new CRPC members and for residents
and visitors, such as booklets and
training.
Estimate:
$3,000
Time: Ongoing
Next Steps: Staff will seek educational
resources to provide to CRPC and seek
options on public education
(booklets/pamphlets)
CLG
Designation
Begin the process of an application to
the California state historic
preservation office for a Certified
Local Government designation.
City staff
time
Time: 9-12 months
Next Steps: Wait for city wide survey to
conclude then City staff will work on
submittal of application
Mills Act
Support current Mills Act actions and
reports to Committee and City
Council as required.
City staff
time
Time: Ongoing
Next Steps: Staff will update the Mills Act
guidelines and provide quarterly reports to
CRPC on Mills Act applications
ATTACHMENTS:
1. CRPC Ranking Sheets
Cultural Resource Preservation Committee – Work Plan Priority Ranking FY 24/25
March 27, 2024
Below is a summary of the submitted CRPC priorities for Fiscal Year 2024/2025, organized by Committee members who submitted responses:
Paul Clark
Ranking Priority Descrip�on Jus�fica�on
1 Cer�ficate of Appropriateness
Applica�on Process and
Update
Update current process of
applica�ons for cer�ficates of
appropriateness and process
submited applica�ons from
landowners in a �mely manner.
Submited
applica�ons should
be reviewed and
acted on. Review
need for any changes
in procedures or
ordinance.
2 Comprehensive Cultural
Resources survey of the city
and surrounding sphere areas.
Focus on historic resources and
with a professional leading and
the Commitee ac�ng as advisory
body to inventory historic
proper�es.
An informa�onal
basis to proceed to
other efforts to
preserve historic and
other cultural
resources.
3 Begin the process of an
applica�on to the California
state historic preserva�on
office for a Cer�fied Local
Government designa�on.
To provide a comprehensive plan
of reviewing and preserving civic
resources
Provides a master
plan for the future
4 GIS Resources In conjunc�on with survey and
other sources of informa�on a
data base for assessing cultural
resources
On-going
5 Mills Act Support current Mills Act ac�ons
and reports to Commitee and
City Council as required.
On-going
David Toltzmann
Ranking Priority Descrip�on Jus�fica�on
1 Keep the wood on the fire for
the citywide survey for funding
and execu�on
Have the city give us quarterly
updates on this as it moves along.
All other things hinge
on this first step.
2 Update the informa�on on the
city’s website
Have a cultural resource page for
the cultural resource commitee.
Homeowner
educa�on.
3 Create a user friendly building
resource guide for people who
plan on rehabbing.
Online informa�on or booklet. Homeowner
educa�on.
4 “Tallest tree smallest park” A na�onal landmark for Palm Desert.
Crea�ng more
landmarks for our
Cultural Resource Preservation Committee – Work Plan Priority Ranking FY 24/25
March 27, 2024
city creates more
desire $$$ spent.
5 Preserva�on of na�ve plants
on city property
Na�ve plants that originate on
city property don’t require water
but benefit from it. We need an
educated hor�culture
department.
$$$ saved
Kim Housken
Ranking Priority Descrip�on Jus�fica�on
1 Survey Formal survey to iden�fy and
create a city inventory of the
cultural resources in the city
Con�nued from our
last Work Plan.. s�ll
in the process
2 Community Outreach Educa�on – residents and visitors This overall category touches on many of
the items listed
under the Purpose of
the Commitee in the
Ordinance
3 Outreach Civic/Neighborhood Pride
4 Outreach Update CRPC presence on city
website
Update and/or
remove old
references to being
under Building and
Safety so that we are
in correct loca�on
Suggest a brainstorming workshop to develop specific ac�vi�es that will meet some/many of the itemized tasks we are given I our stated Purpose of the Cultural Resources Preserva�on Ordinance.
Such ac�vi�es may include a presence at the Concert in the Park series, an ar�cle on Rehabilita�on in the Brightside Newsleter, educa�on of the Shopper Hopper drivers, etc.
Linda Vassalli
Ranking Priority Descrip�on Jus�fica�on
1 Educa�on Educa�on for new commitee
members
Rochelle McCune
Ranking Priority Descrip�on Jus�fica�on
1 Update the website Update the Historic Preserva�on
Website
Carry over from last
year
2 City Wide Survey Conduct a City Wide Survey Carry over from last year
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Daniel Hurtado, Public Safety Analyst
REQUEST: INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 9.71 TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE) OF THE PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE, ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS PROHIBITING THE
UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS
RECOMMENDATION:
Introduce an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 9.71 (UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER PROHIBITED) TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND
WELFARE) OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE, ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS PROHIBITING THE UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS IN THE CITY.” BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emissions control device located between the exhaust manifold and the muffler of an automobile. The purpose of a catalytic converter is to convert most of a vehicle’s emissions into less harmful byproducts, which ultimately improves both air quality and vehicle performance. As part of their construction, catalytic converters contain valuable materials such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, some of which are valued at several thousand dollars per ounce on the recyclables market.
In 2023, the City of Palm Desert experienced an average of 6 catalytic converter thefts per month, which is a decrease from the 13 thefts per month in 2022. Although the number of thefts has decreased, the victims of catalytic converter theft are still greatly inconvenienced. The victims are often left to bear high repair costs and are left without a functioning vehicle until after these repairs have been made.
Catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise because individuals are incentivized to commit catalytic converter thefts for multiple reasons. These reasons include: (1) the ease and undetectable nature of committing such thefts, potentially taking place in a matter of seconds and through the use of common tools; (2) the ability to recycle catalytic converters at scrap metal yards for high dollar returns ranging from $200 to $1,200 per catalytic converter; and (3) loopholes in legislation protecting criminals from prosecution, unless a victim can be identified.
While there have been legislative attempts in Sacramento to crack down on catalytic converter theft, local agencies in California have begun to pass ordinances to assist law enforcement in holding these thieves accountable for their crimes. Some of these agencies include the County of Riverside, and the cities of Corona, Eastvale, Palm Springs, and Cathedral City.
City of Palm Desert
(Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converters Ordinance)
By criminalizing the mere possession of an unattached catalytic converter absent proof of ownership or lawful possession, this ordinance would combat this criminal practice and increase deterrence by establishing zero-tolerance for catalytic converter theft through:
Establishing criminal penalties for the possession of stolen catalytic converters. Prohibiting the falsification of information in documents and records used to verify ownership or lawful possession of a catalytic converter; Preventing criminals from profiting from the sale and recycling of stolen catalytic converters;
Providing indirect justice to the victims of catalytic converter theft cases that have gone or will go unsolved; and
Minimizing the fiscal and personnel impact on the Riverside County Sheriff's Department by reducing the time invested in deterring and investigating catalytic converter thefts.
Under the ordinance, “documentation or other proof” could include the following types of documents:
Bill of sale from the original owner with the signature of the vehicle owner authorizing the removal of the catalytic converter, as well as the name, address, and telephone number of the vehicle owner;
Documentation from an auto-body shop or similar business proving that the owner relinquished the catalytic converter to the auto-body shop or similar business; Verifiable electronic communication from the previous owner to the possessor relinquishing ownership of the catalytic converter; or
Photographs of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter originated, clearly showing the license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the car from which the catalytic converter was removed.
The proposed ordinance also makes it unlawful to falsify or cause to be falsified any information in any documentation or other proof intended to show valid proof of ownership or possession of a catalytic converter.
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s office.
Strategic Plan:
The recommendation aligns with the Public Safety and Emergency Services section of the Palm Desert Strategic Plan.
Priority 2: Increase methods of preventing crime.
Appointed Body Recommendation:
This item was brought forward to the Public Safety Committee at the April 9, 2024, 3:30 pm meeting, with the Public Safety Committee voting to move forward with a recommendation to the City Council.
City of Palm Desert
(Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converters Ordinance)
Environment Review:
The requested City Council action is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), as it is not a “Project” as defined by CEQA. (CEQA Guidelines 15060(c)(3)). Pursuant to Section 15378(a), a “Project” means the whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. The requested action is to amend the Municipal Code to create a new criminal offense and is exempt from CEQA under the “common sense” exemption (CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3)), as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. The requested action is further exempt under Section 15060(c)(2), as it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Approval of this ordinance will not, by itself, cause any fiscal impact on the City.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Draft Ordinance
2. Presentation
ORDINANCE NO. _____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 9.71 (UNLAWFUL
POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER PROHIBITED) TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE) OF THE PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE, ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS PROHIBITING THE
UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS IN THE CITY WHEREAS, the citizens of the City of Palm Desert (the “City”) have experienced rising catalytic converter thefts from automobiles over the past several years, with Palm Desert averaging 6 catalytic converter thefts a month; and WHEREAS, there is currently no City legislation applicable within the City of Palm Desert to define and punish catalytic converter thefts absent an identifiable victim; and
WHEREAS, there is currently no City, State, or Federal legislation applicable within the City of Palm Desert requiring individuals discovered to be in possession of detached catalytic converters to provide proof to law enforcement as to how they obtained catalytic converters, thus limiting law enforcement’s ability to: (1) protect the public by preventing catalytic converter thefts; and (2) seize suspected stolen catalytic converters when no victim is present; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature has enacted, and the Governor has signed into law, Senate Bill (SB) 1087 and Assembly Bill (AB) 1740, which generally prohibit: (1) individuals from purchasing a used catalytic converter from anyone other than certain specified sellers, including automobile dismantlers, automotive repair dealers, or an individual possessing documentation, as specified, that they are the lawful owner of the catalytic converter; and (2) requires core recyclers to keep a detailed written record, including the year, make, and model of the car form which a catalytic converter was removed, as well as a copy of the vehicle’s title, prior to purchasing a catalytic converter from a seller; and
WHEREAS, the Legislature has not expressed its intent, whether explicitly or impliedly, to occupy the field of catalytic converter theft legislation; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Article XI, Section 5 of the California Constitution, the City, as a charter city, has broad discretionary power to make and enforce within its limits all ordinances and regulations in respect to municipal affairs; and WHEREAS, catalytic converter thefts are on the rise because individuals are incentivized to commit catalytic converter thefts for multiple reasons including, but not limited to: (1) the ease and undetectable nature of committing such thefts, potentially in a matter of seconds and through the use of common tools such as a reciprocating saw; (2) the ability to recycle catalytic converters at scrap metal yards
Ordinance No. _____ Page 2
for high dollar returns ranging from $200 to $1,200 per catalytic converter; and (3) loopholes in legislation protecting criminals from prosecution unless a victim can be identified; and
WHEREAS, preventing these crimes at present is nearly impossible due to the ease and speed with which catalytic converter thefts can be committed and the difficulty of tracing a particular catalytic converter back to its prior owner (the victim), because catalytic converters typically have no identifying markers; and WHEREAS, the citizens of Palm Desert and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department are in need of legislation criminalizing mere possession of catalytic converters absent proof of ownership or lawful possession, for multiple reasons including, but not limited to, the following: (1) achieving deterrence by establishing zero-tolerance for catalytic converter thefts; (2) establishing sanctions for possessing stolen catalytic converters; (3) preventing criminals from profiting from the sale and recycling of stolen catalytic converters; (4) providing indirect justice to the victims of catalytic converter theft cases that have gone or will go unsolved for the reasons discussed above; and (5) minimizing the fiscal and personnel impact on the City of Palm Desert and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department by reducing the time invested in deterring and investigating catalytic converter thefts; and
WHEREAS, individuals who are in possession of stolen catalytic converters recycle them for substantial profit while victims of these thefts suffer tremendous consequences in the form of costly repairs, inconvenience, and feelings of a lack of safety in the community; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to regulate the possession of detached catalytic converters within its jurisdiction in order to better protect its citizens, their property, and their community; and
WHEREAS, regulating possession of detached catalytic converters neither contradicts nor duplicates the statutes adopted by the Legislature on the topic of catalytic converters; and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance is necessary to provide the City and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department clear legal authority to better protect the public and deter this criminal activity; and
WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The Recitals set forth above are
Ordinance No. _____ Page 3
incorporated herein and made an operative part of this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. Addition of Chapter 9.71 to Title 9 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Chapter 9.71 is hereby added to Title 9 (Public Peace, Morals and Welfare) of the Palm Desert Municipal Code to read in its entirety as follows:
“Chapter 9.71
UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC
CONVERTER
9.71.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the possession of detached catalytic converters absent proof of ownership or lawful possession, to assist in deterring future thefts, establish sanctions for possessing stolen catalytic converters, and minimize the fiscal and personnel impact on the City of Palm Desert and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department by reducing the time invested in deterring and investigating catalytic converter thefts.
9.71.020 Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following meanings shall apply:
A. “Lawful possession” includes (1) being the lawful owner of the catalytic converter or (2) in possession of the catalytic converter with the lawful owner’s written consent. It is not required to prove the catalytic converter was stolen to establish the possession is not a “lawful possession.”
B. “Documentation or other proof” means written document(s) that clearly identify the vehicle from which the catalytic converter originated based on the totality of the circumstances, and includes, but is not limited to, the following types of documents:
(1) Bill of sale from the original owner with the signature of the vehicle owner authorizing removal of the catalytic converter, as well as the name, address, and telephone number of the vehicle owner. (2) Documentation from an auto-body shop or similar business proving that the owner relinquished the catalytic converter to the auto-body shop or similar business.
(3) Verifiable electronic communication from the previous owner to the possessor relinquishing ownership of the catalytic converter. (4) Photographs of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter originated clearly showing the license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the car from which the catalytic converter was removed.
9.71.030 Unlawful possession of a catalytic converter prohibited.
Ordinance No. _____ Page 4
A. It shall be unlawful to possess any catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle, unless the possessor has valid documentation or other proof to verify that they are in lawful possession of the catalytic converter.
B. It is unlawful for any person to falsify or cause to be falsified any information in any documentation or other proof intended to show valid proof of ownership or possession of a catalytic converter.
9.71.040 Violations – Misdemeanor
A. Each and every violation of this section shall constitute a separate violation and shall be subject to all remedies and enforcement measures authorized by the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Each and every catalytic converter unlawfully possessed is a separate violation of this section.
B. Any person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction punished by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or both.
C. The remedies provided herein are not to be construed as exclusive remedies. The City is authorized to pursue any proceedings or remedies provided by law.” SECTION 3. CEQA. The City Council finds that adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) as it is not a “Project” as defined by CEQA. (CEQA Guidelines 15060(c)(3)). Pursuant to Section 15378(a), a “Project” means the whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment or a reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. The requested action is to amend the Municipal Code to create a new criminal offense and is exempt from CEQA under the “common sense” exemption (CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3)), as it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment. The requested action is further exempt under Section 15060(c)(2), as it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment.
SECTION 4. Severability. If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ordinance for any reason is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions thereof be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 5. Publication. The Mayor shall sign this Ordinance and the City Clerk shall cause the same to be published within fifteen (15) days after its passage at least once, in
Ordinance No. _____ Page 5
a newspaper of general circulation, published and circulated in the City of Palm Desert, California.
SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance takes effect thirty (30) days from and after the date of its passage.
ADOPTED ON ___________________, 2024.
KARINA QUINTANILLA
MAYOR
ATTEST:
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
Ordinance No. _____ Page 6
I, Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, California, do hereby certify that Ordinance No. ____ is a full, true, and correct copy, and was introduced at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City Council on _________, 2024, and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on __________, 2024, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
RECUSED:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Palm Desert, California, on ____________________.
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
ORDINANCE
Daniel Hurtado
Public Safety Analyst
City Managers Office
April 25, 2024
AGENDA
• Catalytic Converters
• Ordinance
Overview
• Staff
Recommendation
PURPOSE OF CATALYTIC
CONVERTERS
To reduce air pollution, modern vehicles are equipped with a device called a catalytic converter that reduces emissions of three harmful compounds found in car exhaust:
1. Carbon monoxide (a poisonous gas)
2. Nitrogen oxides (a cause of smog and acid rain)
3. Hydrocarbons (a cause of smog)
These are converted into less harmful compounds before leaving the car’s exhaust system. This is accomplished using a catalyst, which gives the device its name.
4 VALUE
• Catalytic converters have economic value as
they contain precious metals. This is the main
reason why they are sold as the most
expensive scrap. Because it contains rhodium,
palladium, and platinum, which are among the
most precious metals.
5 STATS
• In 2023, the City of Palm Desert experienced an average of 6 thefts per month, which is a decrease from the 13 thefts per month experienced in 2022
CATALYTIC
CONVERTOR
THEFTS
• Why are thefts on the rise?
• (1) the ease and undetectable nature of committing
such thefts, potentially in a matter of seconds and
through the use of common tools;
• (2) the ability to recycle catalytic converters at scrap metal yards for high dollar returns ranging from
$200 to $1,200 per catalytic converter; and
• (3) loopholes in legislation protecting criminals from prosecution unless a victim can be identified.
Currently no law to define and punish catalytic
converter thefts absent an identifiable victim.
CATALYTIC
CONVERTERS
REVIEW
• The City Council had previously requested
for a thorough review and analysis of
catalytic converters thefts.
• The Public Safety Committee at the April
9,2024 meeting voted to move forward with
a recommendation to the City Council.
• The Riverside County Sheriff's Department
has full support of such ordinance.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
(1) achieve deterrence by establishing zero-tolerance for catalytic converter thefts (2) establish sanctions for possessing stolen catalytic converters (3) prevent criminals from profiting from the sale and recycling of stolen catalytic converters (4) providing indirect justice to the victims of catalytic converter theft cases that have gone or will go unsolved for the reasons discussed above
(5) minimize the fiscal and personnel impact on the City of Palm Desert and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department by reducing the time invested in deterring and investigating catalytic converter thefts
PRESENTATION TITLE 8
Regulating possession of detached catalytic converters within the jurisdiction will:
THANK YOU
Daniel Hurtado
[email protected]
760-776-6414
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk
REQUEST: REQUEST FOR OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL FOR MAYOR QUINTANILLA
TO ATTEND THE NALEO ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN LAS VEGAS,
NEVADA
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize out-of-state travel for Mayor Quintanilla to attend the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Annual Conference held on June 17-20, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On May 25, 2023, the City Council considered and approved a request for out-of-state travel for Mayor Pro Tem Quintanilla to attend the NALEO Annual Conference in New York, New York. At that time, the City Council agreed new requests for out-of-state travel should be accompanied by a request form from the Councilmember and considered extraordinary and therefore listed on the Action Calendar.
As such, Mayor Quintanilla has submitted the out-of-state travel request form and a request letter for the NALEO Annual Conference held on June 17-20, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Mayor Quintanilla notes that the NALEO Conference in New York allowed for connections with the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Administration (CISA) and as a result CISA will serve a resource for our businesses through the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon in May.
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s office.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Registration (Early Bird) $ 800
Milage & Parking $ 350
Hotel (Block Rate) $ 857
Per Diem $ 242
Total Expenses $2,249
There is sufficient funding available in the City Council Budget, Account No. 110-4110-4312000 (City Council Conferences/Seminars/Workshops).
City of Palm Desert
Out-of-State Travel: NALEO Conference
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Travel Request Form & Request Letter
2. Letter to Senator Padilla, dated March 26, 2024
3. Conference Agenda
4. Conference Registration & Hotel
1104110-4312000
Council Conferences has available funding
Karina Quintanilla
NALEO 41th Annual Conference
National Association of Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Travel: June 17-20; Conference: June 18-20, 2024
Las Vegas, NV
National conference offering best practices supplementing City investments in CSUSB-PDC and iHub connections with the changing role of education, including AI, addressing healthcare challenges, by networking with elected leaders and policy experts across the nation. No comparable CA conferences.
Relevant to the City's economic development, such as the role of AI in education and healthcare.
Last year, I brought connections with the Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Admin, featured speaker at 5/14 PDACC. CISA is a crucial partner for our businesses. Reinforces the work of AI at the iHub.
Strengthens PD's role as educational leader supplementing my role in revising CA's Master Plan for Ed and Careers. I recently signed a letter to US Senator Padilla supporting CSUSB-PDC's $1.4M request for AI, VR and street medicine. These topics are addressed and I will network with other leaders. $800 (member rate)
$350 for mileage and parking (less expensive than round-trip airfare) $857 (NALEO group rate)
April 25, 2024
Esteemed colleagues of the City Council and City Manager:
I am making a request for support to attend the 41st NALEO Conference in Las Vegas, NV, from June 17-20, 2024. NALEO Conferences are the nation's preeminent providers of nonpartisan professional development for Latino policymakers, providing meaningful exchange of ideas and solutions to today's most pressing policy issues, as well as enhancing my leadership and governance skills. By attending the 40th Annual Conference in New York, I was able to benefit the City and our local businesses with the connections I made with the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Administration (CISA). This is a direct return on investment.
The Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast in May will feature a CISA representative. This is a free service. CISA does not charge fees, transportation, or lodging. That fruitful connection provides crucial tools to our small businesses, empowering them with knowledge on spotting phishing, and other threats to prevent ransomware. This economic development tool proactively supports our business owner's livelihoods. As a member of the Latino Caucus in the California League of Cities, I assure you there are no comparable opportunities in California. Key topics for the 2024 Conference directly align with our visions for public health, education, and CSUSB Palm Desert Campus. On March 26, I signed a letter to US Senator Alex Padilla, supporting $1.4M for the Community Funding Project to establish a Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence Research and Training Center, as well as the Nursing Department Street Medicine Program. This will enhance our iHub and our ongoing efforts to reduce homelessness. A copy of the letter is attached to this request.
Ms. Carina Tamayo, Inland Empire Deputy Director for Governor Newsom, personally invited me to a local round table for elected officials with Josh Fryday, Chief Service Officer of CA Volunteers for Governor Newsom's Master Plan for Career Education. She also invited me to attend the Inland Empire Master Plan at San Bernardino Valley College.
As the only elected official involved in the conversation that day, I was given the opportunity to review California's Master Plan for Education and advocate for the needs of the Coachella Valley. My career in education spans K-12, post-secondary, and higher education and as Mayor of Palm Desert, I am uniquely poised to elevate our needs regarding policy and objectives. The Conference enhances the creative solutions and exceptional perspectives to address the growing demands for posts-secondary and career technical education. As you can see below, three of the sessions are directly relevant to student success, innovation, higher education, including a session on Artificial Intelligence.
I will attend two sessions directly related to public health. The Coachella Valley is considered a medically underserved region due to our low per capita ratio of physicians.
Seniors are at growing risk for homelessness, and this directly ties into our proactive mitigation efforts. The session titles refer to Latinos, but the conversation is directly relevant to families with multigenerational approaches to the care of their aging loved ones. Another reinforces Palm Desert's dedication to sustainability by addressing future energy sources for transportation. This written request contains copies of the letter to US Senator Alex Padilla, conference agenda, registration materials, lodging at the discounted block rates, and mileage, which is less expensive than flying. You will see the sessions and projected expenses below.
June 18 June 19 June 20
Addressing the Health and
Social Needs of an Aging
Latino Population
Navigating the Talent
Shortage: Strategies for
Healthcare
The Future of Transportation
Energy Sources
AI, The Newest Revolution
and Disruption in Education
What’s Next for Higher
Education
Empowering and Partnering
with Families to Achieve
Student Success
The total costs associated with attending the NALEO Annual Conference is $2,197, based on the following cost estimates.
Early-Bird Conference Registration
for Members
$800 Hotel, NALEO Block Rate,
plus taxes and fees
$857
Mileage and Parking (less expensive
than round-trip airfare)
$350 Total Per-diem $242
The caliber of content, speakers, and networking opportunities will provide different perspectives on how to address these pressing issues so I can return with best practices that benefit Palm Desert. NALEO’s Annual Conferences strengthen my leadership skills and ability to mentor the next generation of Latino leaders who seek public service. As the first Latina on the Palm Desert City Council, I am dedicated to ensuring Latinos are heard clearly and have the strongest representation. NALEO strengthens my service to Palm Desert through services and resources we can offer to our constituents, businesses, and students, together, as a united City Council. Please let me know if there is anything I can further provide to support my request.
Sincerely,
Mayor Karina Quintanilla
Cc: Anthony Mejia, City Clerk
Veronica Chavez, Director of Finance
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
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AGENDA
Agenda is subject to change, Rev. 02/02/2024
All Dates
6/17-6/20
Monday
6/17
Tuesday
6/18
Wednesday
6/19
Thursday
6/20
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 2/11 Search
June 17, 2024
June 18, 2024
2:00 PM PT
Early Conference Registration Check-In
8:00 AM PT
Conference Registration Check-In
9:00 AM PT
Breakfast & Opening Plenary: A Look at Nevada’s Latino Community & Political Lead… NALEO and NALEO Educational Fund leaders will be joined by officials from Nevada and Las Vegas to welcome participants to the NALEO 41st Annual Conference.
Over the past decade, the Silver State has seen tremendous growth and change — with Latinos playing a major role in this transition. From 2010 through 2020, Nevada’s total population grew from 2.7 million to 3.1 million — an increase of 15 percent — while the state’s Latino population increased by 24 percent. Latinos now account for nearly 18 percent of all registered voters in Nevada. The state’s number of Latino elected officials also continues to increase across all levels of office, including the only Latina in the U.S.
Senate, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. However, with this growth there also have been challenges and unique needs for the Latino community. Latinos in Nevada have been disproportionally affected by national events, such as the 2008 housing crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. During this opening plenary, panelists will provide an overview of the state’s Latino community, the growth of its Latino political leadership, and the key role the state is poised to play in the national political landscape.
NALEO Marketplace & Networking Break
NALEO Service Project
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 3/11 10:30 AM PT
Addressing the Health & Social Needs of Our Nation’s Aging Latino Population According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Latinos over the age of 65 will represent the largest minority population in this age group by 2028. By 2060, this same group will represent 21 percent of the overall population of individuals over 65, comprised of about 19.9 million people. As Latinos continue to age, policymakers need to plan for this population’s needs, including healthcare, caregiving, housing, and other benefits and services. This session will explore strategies and best practices to help ensure that Latinos have access to resources and support to maintain a healthy quality of life as they age.
Disruptive Models to Accelerating Job Entry
In an era of evolving workforce dynamics, employers are increasingly redefining job entry requirements — moving away from traditional prerequisites like postsecondary degrees.
This shift is reshaping the job entry landscape and holds the potential to unlock new labor market opportunities for Latinos and all Americans. For policymakers, responding to these workforce shifts means facilitating inclusive economic growth and providing constituents with access to meaningful employment opportunities. This session will explore the multifaceted implications of this transition and the actionable role policymakers can play through strategic partnerships with employers and educational institutions to bridge the gap between talent supply and the demand to foster pathways to economic prosperity for Latinos.
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) 101
Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a specialized branch of AI and machine learning that focuses on creating new, seemingly-human-generated content using large data sets — such as images, videos, text, code, and 3D models. Generative AI has the potential to revolutionize the economy, boost productivity, and transform all industries, so it is critical for policymakers to engage in this policy area to ensure their communities are not left behind as this technology evolves. This session will provide participants with an introduction to AI, highlight its various types, and provide an overview of its potential challenges and benefits as its adoption expands across multiple sectors.
The Imperative for Ethical Leadership Among Latino Policymakers
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 4/11 As the number of Latino policymakers grows with each election, our community has the unprecedented ability to shape the nation’s political landscape. However, these gains in office come with increased scrutiny and exposure —at a time when public distrust of government and its institutions is at an all-time high. In fact, over the last year, there have been several high-profile incidents of Latino elected officials betraying their oaths of office and the public trust. As such, it is critical that policymakers carry out their official duties while maintaining the public’s trust and high ethical standards. This session will focus on ethical leadership in public office and help policymakers identify common areas of concern that may arise during their elected office tenure. 12:30 PM PT
Leadership Luncheon & Plenary: The State of World Affairs & The Impact on Latinos i… Global and regional conflicts, political upheaval, mass migration patterns, and natural disasters are just a few contributing factors to the turmoil being felt across the globe.
Inevitably, these world affairs become deciding factors for major policy areas in the United States — including the economy, security, public health, energy, and many others. This plenary will dive into the current state of world affairs and explore how and why decisions being made across the globe can affect the Latino community and the future of our nation.
2:00 PM PT
Networking Break: Café & Confections
3:15 PM PT
Funding Strategies for Housing Development
By blending public funding with private financing, policymakers are establishing innovative frameworks to enhance housing supplies to help fix the affordable housing crisis within their communities. In this session, participants will explore strategies for strengthening partnerships among public entities, the federal government, and private investors to expand the availability of resources to build more affordable housing options.
The New Status Quo: AI in Education
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 5/11 June 19, 2024
In an era of rapid technological advancement, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out as one of the most transformative forces — reshaping every aspect of our lives, including how we educate students in our schools. To keep up with this technology, governing boards and administrators must develop policies and guidelines that allow educators to leverage the potential of AI in classrooms while keeping students safe. During this session, participants will explore AI’s education integration and identify key questions to address as the education sector increasingly embraces its use.
Empowering Latina Leaders: Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Public Office Good physical and mental health are essential for overall well-being — yet more than one in five women in the United States reported experiencing a mental health condition — such as depression or anxiety — in the past year. For women in public service, it is especially challenging to pause, evaluate and share the distinct challenges they face while in public office and the effects to their mental health. During this discussion, panelists will discuss best practices for Latinas to observe self-care, including conversations on maintaining mental well-being while fulfilling their responsibilities as leaders. 8:00 PM PT
Opening Reception: Welcome to Las Vegas!
8:00 AM PT
Conference Registration Check-In
9:00 AM PT
Breakfast Plenary: Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis at the Border and Beyond According to projections reported by Axios, more than 8 million migrants and asylum seekers will be living in the United States by the end of September. These individuals have entered the United States through Mexico — originating from Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. As a result of the increased migrant population, border communities have faced extreme challenges in providing basic needs.
Additionally, the relocation of these migrants has had a considerable impact on cities like Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, and New York. This plenary will highlight strategies and partnerships available to policymakers at all levels of government to address the humanitarian concerns around the migrant crisis and communities across the country.
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 6/11 NALEO Marketplace & Networking Break
NALEO Service Project
10:30 AM PT
Mental Health in the Aging Latino Population
Negative mental health symptoms manifest at greater rates in older Latinos than in other groups. Latinos experience higher rates of depression and are more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s than their non-Latino counterparts. Additionally, while Latinas are more likely to experience depression than Latinos, Latino men are much more likely to die by suicide. This session will explore the barriers to mental health diagnoses and treatment for older Latinos, especially men, while considering the cultural stigma associated with seeking mental health services, as well as the lack of access to treatment. Panelists will also discuss some of the cultural and linguistic best practices and resources that can be utilized as policymakers prepare for a growing aging Latino population among their constituents.
Data-Driven Decisions: Leveraging AI for Local Government Efficiency Information Technology plays a critical role in delivering services across all levels of government, and the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to bolster this essential government function. By using AI to streamline systems, government agencies can improve services for their constituents while reducing waste, preventing fraud, and improving citizen engagement — while also addressing persistent workforce shortages in the public sector. In this session, experts will provide an overview of the promise — and possible pitfalls — of AI technology in government services. Participants will also learn how jurisdictions across the country already use AI to increase government efficiency.
Recipes for Success: The Do’s & Don’ts of Working for Latino Policymakers Policymakers and their career staff have a distinct opportunity to collaborate and address the pressing issues facing their communities. By leveraging their collective expertise, elected officials and their staff can build strong relationships and work together to deliver critical government services. This session, geared at career and government relations staff, will outline the diverse roles and perspectives both staff and elected officials bring to the governing process — and how the two work in tandem to better serve their communities.
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 7/11 Healthcare Heroes: Navigating the Talent Shortage in Health Services With an aging population and a rise in chronic illnesses and behavioral health conditions, the strain on healthcare professionals has reached unprecedented levels — presenting policymakers with complex challenges. To ensure access to quality care for their communities, it is crucial that policymakers understand this shortage — which can inform strategic decisions on policy, funding, and workforce development initiatives. This session will equip participants with the tools and insights to navigate these pressing challenges effectively.
12:30 PM PT
Leadership Luncheon & Plenary: Charting a Path Forward: Working through Americ… As a national organization with a diverse constituency — representing many political perspectives, national origins, gender, sexual orientation, and geographies — NALEO Educational Fund is proud of its ability to convene forums like the NALEO Annual Conference, facilitating critical discussions important to the Latino community while promoting civil public discourse. Unfortunately, our nation has seen a shift in recent years as hyper partisanship takes hold of political parties, public officials, and communities across the country — a practice that counters the core values of democracy and civility.
This plenary will explore the effects of hyper partisanship and how Latino leaders can address extreme division in the public square, as well as demonstrate their commitment to serving their constituents and preserving American democracy. 2:00 PM PT
Networking Break: Café & Confections
3:15 PM PT
What’s Next for Higher Education?
In the wake of unprecedented challenges and transformative shifts, higher education stands at a crossroads. As student enrollment continues to decline, colleges and universities must urgently reinvent themselves. By championing legislation and strategies affecting workforce development opportunities, economic competitiveness, and student social mobility, higher education administrators and governing bodies can ensure student success inside the classroom and beyond. In this session, participants will receive an overview of the forces driving higher education transformation and explore policy interventions to support institutional innovation and success.
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 8/11 June 20, 2024
The Perfect Storm: Human Trafficking & the Migrant Crisis An analysis of data from the National Human Trafficking Resource Center found that in 2021, more than 10,300 human trafficking incidents were reported in the country, identifying a total of 16,554 likely trafficking victims. While victims of human trafficking span all demographic and socioeconomic groups, the data also indicated that immigrants are particularly vulnerable to both sex and labor trafficking — revealing that 54 percent of victims in 2021 were recent migrants, and 81 percent of those trafficked for labor were Latino. During this session, panelists will offer an overview of the human trafficking crisis, highlighting strategies to fight this silent epidemic, as well as spotlighting resources available to help survivors get away from exploitative situations.
Election 2024 & Beyond: NALEO Educational Fund’s Role in Strengthening Our Dem… NALEO Educational Fund implements various strategies to fulfill its mission of facilitating the full participation of Latinos in our nation’s political process, including 1) leading advocacy efforts to protect and expand Latinos’ access to civic processes; 2) conducting research to inform the field about Latino civic participation issues; 3) engaging community members to motivate them to seek U.S. citizenship, vote, get counted in the decennial census, and participate in redistricting processes; and 4) conducting election protection efforts to safeguard Latino voting rights. In this session, participants will learn more about the organization’s efforts to strengthen our nation’s democracy through empowering Latino communities nationwide and how to engage in these efforts directly. 8:00 AM PT
Conference Registration Check-In
9:00 AM PT
Breakfast Plenary: Strengthening the Foundations for Latino Economic Growth According to a recent report from the Latino Donor Collaborative, U.S. Latino economic output reached $3.2 trillion in 2021. The same study indicates that if Latinos were an independent country, their GDP would rank fifth in the world, ahead of the United Kingdom, India, and France. At the same time, however, most major polls indicate that the economy and the rising cost of living top the list of concerns heading into the 2024 presidential election. This session will explore the current and future state of Latino economic growth and influence while identifying policies and strategies that policymakers can support and advance to increase our community’s economic mobility and prosperity.
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 9/11 NALEO Marketplace & Networking Break
NALEO Service Project
10:30 AM PT
Housing Best Practices & Policies
Policymakers play a pivotal role in creating solutions to enhance housing supply and affordability during a national housing crisis. Knowing best practices and model policies is helpful for policymakers as these strategies and governance tools can effectively address housing shortages and create vibrant, inclusive communities. In this session, participants will reflect on tried-and-true policies that have been successful in Latino communities to better understand best practices in meeting these challenges and achieving desired outcomes.
Together We Rise: Asian American and Pacific Islander and Latino Leadership As two of the fastest-growing communities in the United States, it is critical for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) and Latino populations to achieve political representation on par with their representation in society. In a similar manner that NALEO Educational Fund provides professional and leadership development programs for Latino public officials, AAPI LEAD recently has been created to provide these services for AAPI public officials. In this session, panelists will lead a discussion on the opportunities and challenges AAPI and Latino policymakers face as they govern their communities.
The Future of Transportation Energy Sources
The United States is a nation on the move. In 2021, approximately 28 percent of its total energy consumption was allocated to transporting people and goods. While federal and state governments have invested in and set goals to expand a zero-emissions transportation infrastructure, there is room for further progress. Although fossil fuels have historically dominated the transportation sector, there has been a notable shift toward renewable energy sources, including electricity, hydrogen, and biofuels. In this session, experts will discuss some of the lessons learned and progress made in implementing lowemission, energy-efficient, and affordable energy solutions in transportation and consider how policymakers can continue to enhance transportation energy security.
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 10/11 12:30 PM PT
Leadership Luncheon: The Latino Vote in 2024
Latinos are the second-largest population and eligible voting group in the country and are once again poised to play a decisive role in the presidential election and local and state contests nationwide. NALEO Educational Fund projects that at least 17.5 million Latino voters will turn out to the polls in November, an increase of 6.5 percent from 2020.This plenary will provide a profile of the Latino electorate, address the community’s potential impact on the 2024 election, and what steps candidates up and down the ballot are taking to secure the Latino vote.
2:00 PM PT
Networking Break: Café & Confections
Presidential Candidate Forum
As public servants on the front lines of addressing America’s policy challenges, NALEO Members continue to be key partners with the White House. The NALEO Presidential Forum will provide an opportunity for the presumptive presidential nominees to address the nation’s Latino elected and appointed leadership and discuss the key policy issues that millions of Latinos will be watching as they prepare to cast their ballots in 2024. 3:15 PM PT
Developing Safety Plans for Policymakers and Staff
In October 2023, the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law conducted a series of national surveys and interviews among a diverse set of state legislators and local officeholders from all 50 states. Officeholders across all demographics reported experiencing increased threats or attacks within the past three years. Given this environment of heightened threats and harassment, individual preparedness is crucial for the safety and well-being of elected officials and their staff. This session will equip policymakers and their staff with best practices, strategies, and practical self-defense applications to stay safe at work, at home, and at public events.
Empowering Families to Achieve Student Success
4/2/24, 6:20 PM Agenda - NALEO 41st Annual Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/670a6857-b7f8-4b31-8e1f-4f40ee45197a/websitePage:dfbf9afd-5bf1-4c86-b40f-9372bff2e3f5 11/11 Many students across the country fell behind during the remote learning periods associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. As schools have reopened, most students have recovered from their learning loss. Assessment scores, however, confirm that low-income families, students of color, and English-language learners, many of whom are Latino, fared considerably worse than their peers. Policymakers, administrators, and educators can support families to better advocate for children’s educational needs by promoting a wide range of programs to accelerate students’ academic recovery and growth. In this session, experts will discuss these policies and models that are proven effective in establishing favorable learning conditions for student academic success.
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CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Vanessa Mager, Management Analyst
REQUEST: ADOPT THE PALM DESERT RAIL STATION FEASIBILITY STUDY RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt the Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study.
2. Direct staff to submit the study to Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) for their consideration to include in the Tier 2 study.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
In July 2022, the Riverside County Transportation Commission (“RCTC”) adopted a Tier 1 Environmental Impact Statement (Federal) and Environmental Impact Report (“EIS/EIR”) (State) for the “Coachella Valley – San Gorgonio Pass Rail Corridor Service” plan to extend daily passenger rail service to the Coachella Valley. The new rail service would provide a 144-mile connection to Los Angeles’ Downtown Union Station, as well as a connection to the Metro and Metrolink system. These plans are a coordinated effort between RCTC, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and the Federal Rail Administration (FRA). The adopted Tier 1 plan explored potential rail stations for the Coachella Valley including:
- Palm Springs (existing)
- “Mid-Valley” (new)
- Indio / Coachella (new)
With the adoption of the Tier 1 plan, RCTC, Caltrans, and the FRA, began strategizing for the Tier 2 study to identify specific rail station locations within the Coachella Valley and provide environmental clearance for those identified locations. To position the City of Palm Desert as the best “Mid-Valley” location and to participate in the Tier 2 planning process, the City Council approved a Rail Station Feasibility Study and contracted with Kimley-Horn and Associates. The objectives of this study were as follows:
• Assess the existing land uses, transportation network, demographics, topography, and economic conditions in Palm Desert.
• Identify and evaluate strategic alternatives to enhance multi-modal traffic and circulation in and around the preferred site.
• Show the viability of Palm Desert as a passenger rail station stop for Amtrak along its existing Sunset Limited train service and/or as part of the Coachella Valley–San Gorgonio Pass.
• Analyze a design for a suitable platform for intercity passenger rail service. • Evaluate current public transit services provided by Sunline Transit Agency, which provides daily bus services.
City of Palm Desert
Adopt The Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study__________________________________
• Provide an analysis on Sunline’s current bus routes and ridership to establish the best permanent transportation hub that will serve all residents and accommodate other transportation modes to reduce single-occupancy vehicle use. • Identify the most appropriate site for a rail station facility along the 6.5-miles of rail line along Palm Desert’s northern boundary.
• Develop a conceptual design that demonstrates how an accessible station would function.
Study Highlights:
With Palm Desert’s central Coachella Valley location, its wide array of recreational, educational, shopping, housing, and entertainment opportunities, arts and cultural activities, and world-class events, the City is the ideal location for a Mid-Valley rail station.
Palm Desert benefits from approximately 6.5-miles of rail line along the City’s northern boundary and Kimley-Horn identified multiple potential sites along the line (map below).
The City, in collaboration with the project team, actively engaged the community through two public meetings and the creation of an Engage Palm Desert page, ensuring that residents' and business owner voices were heard and valued in the decision-making process regarding the preferred station location. These gatherings facilitated discussions on various aspects of the future Transit Hub, such as design principles, context, fit, adjacencies, and site constraints, while also delving into the potential benefits of a new passenger rail station for residents and visitors.
Following extensive research and community feedback, the selection of the site was guided by inclusive criteria, emphasizing the importance of community input and participation. The preferred site, identified as Site C3 in the feasibility study and depicted in the accompanying image, lies strategically between Cook Street and Frank Sinatra Drive, along the north side of Gearld Ford Drive. This location was identified as the preferred site for enhancing rider
City of Palm Desert
Adopt The Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study__________________________________
experience and mobility, accessibility, and proximity to marque institutions and facilities. Site C3's significance extends beyond its functional attributes as it serves as a vital link to the heart of the Coachella Valley and accessibility to the CSUSB Palm Desert campus, housing and commercial land-uses, and connectivity to neighboring cities. Its visibility from the freeway, proximity to transit-oriented development, and accessibility to the Acrisure Arena further reinforce its suitability for the project. Notably, Cook Street has been designated as a "multimodal corridor" in the General Plan, underscoring C3's alignment with broader regional transportation goals and making it the recommended location for a potential Mid-Valley station.
In an effort to ensure thorough consideration of potential locations, multiple meetings were also convened with key stakeholders to gather their feedback and insights. Engaging with organizations such as RCTC, CSUSB, The Berger Foundation, Acrisure Arena, SunLine Transit, Coachella Valley Water District, Southern California Gas Company, and Imperial Irrigation District, the project team sought to identify and address any potential concerns or limitations.
Through these consultations, all participating organizations expressed support for C3 as the favored location, echoing the sentiments of the community. Their endorsement were based on shared recognition of the site's strategic advantages and alignment with the project's objectives.
This consensus further underscores the collaborative approach taken in decision-making, reflecting a unified vision for the successful implementation of the project.
STRATEGIC PLAN:
• Tourism and Marketing – Priority 1: “Improve access to Palm Desert and its attractions to enhance the ease of lifestyle.”
• Transportation – Priority 3: “De-emphasize single/low-occupancy vehicles and optimize multiple modes of travel (bus, carpool, bicycle, and pedestrian).” DISCUSSION:
CV Rail Subcommittee Recommendation:
The CV Rail subcommittee, comprising City staff members from the Economic Development team, Mayor Quintanilla, Mayor Pro Tem Harnik, and representatives from Kimley Horn, actively contributed to the feasibility study process. They now recommend adopting the feasibility study and submitting it to RCTC for consideration in its Tier 2 study.
Project Description:
The feasibility study, exiting site and area conditions, and public opinion support the addition of a rail station in Palm Desert. Staff’s recommendation is to accept and adopt the Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study as presented and direct staff to provide the study to RCTC for their consideration to include in its Tier 2 study.
Upon receiving the directive, staff will promptly submit the study to RCTC for their consideration.
RCTC has obtained the necessary funding to initiated the Tier 2 study and they indicated their readiness to commence the study by year-end. They estimate completion of the study in the next two to six years depending on environmental review. Although submittal of the Palm Desert
City of Palm Desert
Adopt The Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study__________________________________
Rail Feasibility Study does not guarantee the City will be selected for the “Mid-Valley” stop, it does put the City in the best position. Unfortunately, with the anticipated timeline of the Tier 2 study the City may not know if it is selected until mid-way through RCTCs study. RCTC has indicated that the city in which a rail station is located will bear all costs related to its construction and operation. Hence, should Palm Desert be chosen, the City will be required to identify funding sources. Kimley-Horn and associates have identified potential funding sources, outlined in the report. Rail service is expected to commence by 2040.
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s office.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact to the City’s General Fund for adoption of this study.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
PALM DESERT RAIL FEASIBILITY STUDY
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This study wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and support of the following teams and people:
City of Palm Desert
Karina Quintanilla - Mayor
Jan Harnik – Mayor Pro Tem
Eric Ceja – Director of Economic Development/Public Affairs Vanessa Mager – Business and Community Outreach Coordinator Project Team
Kimley-Horn
Perkins Eastman
Kosmont
Community Stakeholders
Riverside County Regional Rail Commission
California State University San Berandino
The Berger Partnership and Acrisure Arena
Local Homeowner Associations
The City of Palm Desert
Local Transit Service Operators
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
1. Introduction, Background and Purpose ..................................1
1.1. Introduction ................................................................................1
1.2. Background and Project Purpose .................................................2
1.3. Purpose of Report .......................................................................2
2. Literature Review ...................................................................3
2.1. Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) Coachella Valley – San Gorgonio Pass Rail Corridor Service Project (Tier 1 EIR and Project Factsheet) ..................................................................................................3
2.2. City of Palm Desert Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) (May 2021) .....3
2.3. Palm Desert General Plan............................................................4
2.4. California State University, San Bernardino – Palm Desert Campus Master Plan 4 2.5. Current Planning Efforts .............................................................4
2.6. Future Planning Efforts................................................................5
3. Existing Condition Analysis ....................................................6
3.1. Current Rail Service and Existing Rail Plan............................................. 6
3.2. Location Context.........................................................................8
3.3. Existing Land Uses......................................................................9
3.4. Zoning......................................................................................11
3.5. Roadway Volumes ....................................................................12
3.6. Existing Transit Facilities and Ridership......................................13
3.7. Ridership Estimates ..................................................................16
4. Community Meetings and Stakeholder
Engagement Summary..........................................................17 Table of Contents
4.1. Consulted Interest Holders ........................................................19
5. Prioritization of Project Implementation ...............................20
5.1. Site Preparation ........................................................................20
5.2. Site Circulation and Parking ......................................................20
5.3. Station Facilities .......................................................................20
5.4. Rail Platforms and Vertical Circulation .......................................21
5.5. Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Improvements ....................21
6. Station Site Selection and Feasibility Analysis ....................22
6.1. Station Site Design Considerations ............................................22
6.2. Station Location Preliminary Selection and Screening.................23
6.3. The Palm Desert Transit Hub Vision ............................................33
6.4. CEQA Preliminary Environmental Study .....................................41
6.5. Cost Estimate ...........................................................................44
7. Potential Funding Sources....................................................46
7.1. Grant Funding Sources.............................................................46
7.2. Value Capture and Other
Financing Mechanisms ..............................................................47
7.3. Funding Partners ......................................................................48
8. Conclusion and Next Steps...................................................50 Appendix A: Station Ridership Density Methodology
and Results...............................................................................A1 Letters of Support.....................................................................L1
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Figure 1: Proposed Service within the California Rail Plan.............6 Figure 2: RCTC Rail Study Map .....................................................7 Figure 3: Local Context Map .........................................................8 Figure 4: Existing Land Uses in Project Area .................................9 Figure 5: Unbuilt Land Ownership along Project Corridor.............10 Figure 6: Zoning in Project Area ..................................................11 Figure 7: Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) Volumes in Project Area.....12 Figure 8: Existing SunLine Transit Routes and Stops in Palm Desert .....14 Figure 9: Transit Boardings in FY 22............................................15 Figure 10: Identified Station Sites ...............................................24 Figure 11: Station Platform and Track Design Assumptions .........28 Figure 12: Anticipated profile for Gerald Ford Drive .....................30 Figure 13: Cook Street Site Evaluation Map ................................31 Figure 14: Palm Desert Transit Hub Visioning Sketch...................33 Figure 15: Palm Desert Transit Facility Conceptual Site Plan........34 Figure 17: Palm Desert Transit Facility Rendering........................35 Figure 16: Palm Desert Transit Facility Conceptual Site Plan #2...35 Figure 18: Palm Desert Transit Facility Rendering #2...................35 Figure 19: Example of Envisioned Programs for the
Palm Desert Rail Station.............................................38 List of Tables
Table 1: SunLine Ridership Figures (Fiscal Year 2022) .................13 Table 2: Station Ridership Estimates (2028) ................................16 Table 3: Key Themes from the Public Meetings ...........................18 Table 4: Station Site Assessment, July 2023 Open House............25 Table 5: Palm Desert CEQA Site Evaluation..................................42 Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
List of Figures
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1. INTRODUCTION, BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
1.1. INTRODUCTION
Nestled in the vibrant heart of California’s Coachella Valley, Palm Desert shines as a regional hub among eight municipalities. Here, opportunities converge, beckoning residents, students, and tourists to experience Palm Desert firsthand.
Situated just 120 miles east of Los Angeles and a mere 15 miles from Palm Springs, this dynamic city serves as the educational center for communities from San Bernadino to Imperial Counties. With two esteemed university campuses and a thriving community college within close proximity to the proposed rail station site, Palm Desert proudly nurtures a culture of learning, particularly among those from underserved communities.
But Palm Desert offers more than just academic prowess. Its vibrant tapestry of recreational, shopping, and entertainment amenities, set against the backdrop of a uniquely beautiful desert landscape, provides an unparalleled quality of life for residents and visitors. The City has the largest workforce in the Coachella Valley and is home to many cultural activities and world-class events. This premier resort destination thrives as a safe and sustainable community, drawing inquisitive minds and innovative employers alike.
With a stable population of approximately 53,000 year-round residents, an additional 32,000 seasonal dwellers add to the vibrancy of our community each year. Yet, it’s the influx of visitors that truly sets the Coachella Valley apart from our neighboring communities. Welcoming a staggering 14.1 million tourists annually, the Valley is a tourist hotspot, and Palm Desert is in the middle of the action. Among these visitors, 50% are from the Los Angeles area, many for only a day trip or weekend getaway, a perfect audience for regular rail service between our two regions.
Palm Desert prides itself on a robust transportation network, boasting dedicated bike lanes, golf cart infrastructure, and SunLine Transit bus services, all complemented by well-maintained roads. Yet, despite these amenities, access to the city remains largely reliant on Interstate 10 and Palm Springs International Airport, which welcomed 3.2 million passengers in 2023, alongside limited Amtrak passenger rail service. While neighboring Palm Springs is a stop on Amtrak routes to Los Angeles, New Orleans, and Chicago, trains are only scheduled for overnight stops. The absence of regular commuter passenger rail service underscores a crucial gap in connectivity. Introducing such a service would not only enhance transportation capacity but also offer a sustainable, accessible option for local commuters, regional students, and visitors alike, facilitating seamless journeys to the heart of the Coachella Valley, Palm Desert.
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1.2. BACKGROUND AND PROJECT PURPOSE
Residents of Palm Desert, and the Coachella Valley as a whole, have long expressed a desire for inter-city rail service. This would provide residents and tourists the option to travel to destinations such as the Inland Empire or Greater Los Angeles area without using I-10. The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), and the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) have also expressed their support for daily intercity passenger rail service in the Coachella Valley in various existing plans.
As the population and tourism to Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley increases, a rail station would create multiple benefits for the region. These include decreasing the overall vehicle miles traveled (VMT) of the region, lowering carbon emissions, increasing the mobility of non-drivers or those without vehicles, and serving as an alternative transportation method to events, such as concerts and sporting events at the Acrisure Arena and the Coachella Arts & Music Festival. This study analyzes the existing and future market for a passenger rail station in Palm Desert, the candidate locations for a station, and the existing and future connectivity to the site. This study aligns with the previous RCTC Coachella Valley/San Gorgonio Rail Study adopted in 2022. This report describes the available land in Palm Desert that could house the station and the process used to identify one locally preferred station location for new rail service near Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive.
SunLine currently provides limited weekday commuter service through the San Gorgonio pass to San Bernardino that draws tens of thousands of riders per year. The proposed rail service will broaden and enhance that connection to draw more types of users, trip purposes with faster, more reliable, and farther reaching service.
This study expands on the Coachella Valley/San Gorgonio Rail Study by identifying the ideal sites for the rail station and includes a conceptual, or “blue-sky,” envisioning of connections between the proposed station and the existing transportation network in Palm Desert. This includes a Multimodal Transport Hub to support all travel modes throughout Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley, with potential connections to bus transit, bicycle travel, pedestrian travel, shuttle buses, ride hailing services, and a pedestrian bridge across I-10. With input from local officials and residents of Palm Desert, the City of Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study represents the collective vision for rail service in the City.
1.3. PURPOSE OF REPORT
This report is the culmination of all the previous efforts conducted for the Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study compiled in one document. It includes the following components:
◢ Review of Existing Conditions
◢ Relevant Literature Review
◢ Summary of Community Engagement Efforts
◢ Development of the Site Selection Criteria and
Subsequent Evaluation
◢ Initial Cost Estimates
◢ Implementation Plan
◢ Potential Funding Mechanisms.
This report will also recommend next steps that the City and its partners should take in beginning design and construction of a new station and securing passenger service.
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
2. LITERATURE REVIEW
The Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study incorporates regional and local planning efforts that relate to the potential station location near Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive. These efforts range from long-range regional planning to local specific plans. The following literature review sections summarize some of the planning documents that were evaluated for any improvements to the Monterey Avenue and Cook Street corridors, as well as any areas that complement or conflict with the rail service. They include a variety of land use and transportation planning projects that can contribute to a comprehensive understanding of Palm Desert’s existing and future transportation conditions to the Monterey Avenue and Cook Street Corridors.
There is already a significant number of transit oriented, development-supportive land uses in the potential station area that could directly serve and be served by station operations including 4,056 hotel rooms, 5,766 units of multifamily housing, and over 6 million square feet of built retail space.
The plans that were reviewed support the continued creation of transit-oriented development opportunities in the station area.
2.1. RIVERSIDE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION
COMMISSION (RCTC) COACHELLA VALLEY –
SAN GORGONIO PASS RAIL CORRIDOR SERVICE
PROJECT (TIER 1 EIR AND PROJECT FACTSHEET)
The San Gorgonio Pass Rail Corridor Service Project serves the many communities of the Coachella Valley with daily intercity passenger rail service between Indio in the Coachella Valley through San Gorgonio Pass to Los Angeles Union Station and assists with coordination of all public transportation services within Riverside County. The San Gorgonio Pass Rail Corridor Service Project addresses the first phase of initial service development planning and alternative analysis to identify potential routes in the Coachella Valley – San Gorgonio Pass Corridor. The regional intercity passenger rail service will provide customers in these communities with an alternate mode of travel that will link them to the Coachella Valley and the Pass Area. This plan provides an overarching vision and strategic guidance for buildable alternatives for daily intercity rail service for the Coachella Valley. The goal is to ensure an easement of congestion on local roads and freeways, and provide new economic opportunity, mobility, and quality of life.
2.2. CITY OF PALM DESERT LOCAL ROAD SAFETY
PLAN (LRSP) (MAY 2021)
The City of Palm Desert Local Road Safety Plan (LRSP) outlines a series of systemic infrastructure improvements and policy enhancements to improve roadway safety and reduce vehicle collisions in the City of Palm Desert. The plan analyzes all reported crashes that occurred in Palm Desert from 2015 to 2019 and identifies intersections and roadway segments with a high risk for collisions. The plan then proposes improvements for the near-, middle-, and long-term, as well as opportunities to apply for funding programs such as the Highway Safety Improvement Plan (HSIP).
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2.3. PALM DESERT GENERAL PLAN
The Palm Desert General Plan is a document designed to guide the growth and development of Palm Desert. The document provides goals and policies which will assist the City in achieving its economic and community development objectives. The General Plan describes the City’s goals and strategies related to transportation in the mobility element. The plan envisions an interconnected multimodal transportation system consisting of automobiles, public transit, golf carts, bicycling, and walking. The element focuses on providing a balanced transportation system that serves all modes of travel safely and efficiently.
2.4. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, SAN BERNARDINO –
PALM DESERT CAMPUS MASTER PLAN
The California State University San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus (CSUSB PDC) Master Plan represents a vision of the opportunities in which the intellectual and creative pursuits of the University and the surrounding community could support and advance the CSUSB education mission. The goal is to ensure that there is transportation and pedestrian/bicycle connectivity to access the campus and its facilities.
2.5. CURRENT PLANNING EFFORTS
A review of several additional planning documents was completed to make sure previous efforts were built upon. The following is a list of the documents that were reviewed:
◢ California State Rail Plan
◢ Better Connected Indio: Indio Multi-Modal Feasibility Study ◢ SunLine Transit Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP) FY23-25 ◢ SunLine Transit Agency Zero-Emission Bus Rollout Plan ◢ Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG)
Active Transportation Plan (ATP)
◢ RCTC Next Generation Rail Study
◢ Riverside County Long Range Transportation Plan (2016) ◢ Cotino Project Site (Disney Master – Planned Community in Rancho Mirage)
◢ CV Link Coachella Valley Active Transportation Route
◢ CV Link Neighborhood Electric Vehicle Transportation Plan Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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2.6. FUTURE PLANNING EFFORTS
The literature review conducted for this study included 18 development plans ranging from new residential developments to hotels and commercial projects. These are described in more detail in the literature review memorandum. The potential impact and benefits of these developments continue to support the preferred station location as they will provide additional housing and services in the station service area, while not overburdening the transportation infrastructure needed for station access and community mobility.
An economic analysis of proposed station operations and activity suggest that 14,000 square feet of additional convenience and quick service food and beverage, 100 additional hotel rooms near the station site, and 100 more units of workforce housing will be needed to take full advantage of the station’s potential and would generate approximately $500,000 per year in 2023 dollars which could in turn provide much of the needed support for station operations and maintenance.
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
3. EXISTING CONDITION ANALYSIS
Figure 1: Proposed Service within the California Rail Plan
3.1. CURRENT RAIL SERVICE AND EXISTING RAIL PLAN
The Coachella Valley is currently served by Amtrak rail service at the Palm Springs Station. This station is served by the Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited services, which run as a combined train on this portion of the route, three times per week in each direction. In FY 2022, the Texas Eagle Service served 253,491 riders and the Sunset Limited served 73,904 riders along the entire route. The Palm Springs Amtrak Station and the roads that access it carried 2,294 riders in FY 2022 on these Amtrak services. However, the Palm Springs Amtrak station faces issues with inclement weather, such as heavy winds and blowing sand, which can affect operations. Indian Canyon Road is also vulnerable to closures and service disruptions due to sand intrusion and flooding during both rain and wind events. These issues have led to lengthy station closures in 2021 and 2023 and make the Palm Springs station a less reliable location for passenger rail service to continue Amtrak service. A station with Amtrak service in Palm Desert would better serve the region, as it is less likely to face inclement weather, is central to Coachella Valley population centers, and has better access to wider valley communities.
Additional passenger rail service between the Coachella Valley and Los Angeles is part of the California Rail Plan. The Plan proposed operations between the Coachella Valley and Los Angeles by 2040 with hourly service to San Bernardino and Riverside.
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RCTC has studied rail operations in more detail through their rail study and Tier 1 Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and has identified a route that parallels I-10 through Coachella Valley to Colton, Interstate 215 (I-215) and State Route 91 (SR-91) to Fullerton, and Interstate 5 (I-5) to Los Angeles Union Station. The plan proposes to use the existing rail stations in Palm Springs, Riverside, Fullerton, and Los Angeles. It also suggests potential new stations in the Coachella, Indio, Palm Desert (Mid-Valley), Beaumont, Pass Area, and Loma Linda areas. Figure 2 shows the proposed service and potential stations as outlined in the RCTC rail study.
Figure 2: RCTC Rail Study Map
All funds have been secured toward a Tier 2 EIR, which will study specific stations and detailed engineering concepts along the rail corridor. The proposed service will be two daily roundtrips between Los Angeles and Coachella with an approximate trip time of 3 hours and 15 minutes. There may be additional tracks installed at selected locations to enhance train travel speeds, minimize delays, and maintain safety. The RCTC plan calls for service within 10 years, dependent upon funding.
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3.2. LOCATION CONTEXT
The City of Palm Desert is located approximately 120 miles east of Los Angeles and approximately 150 miles west of Yuma, Arizona. The existing rail line is situated parallel to the I-10 freeway and is located along the northern boundary of the City of Palm Desert.
The potential stations analyzed in this study included six sites with sufficient open space to house the station along the rail line in the City of Palm Desert. Ultimately, the Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive location located near CSUSB PDC and Acrisure Arena was selected as the most suitable locally preferred location. Acrisure Arena had just under 1 million visitors in 2023. CSUSB PDC currently has about 2,200 students enrolled; however, the campus master plan projects an enrollment of 8,000 by 2035. Residential growth will also be seen within a 2.5-mile radius, with an additional 6,221 units under construction. The City of Palm Desert is also in process of building two parks in the area, one 20-acre community park and one regional park, all within one mile of the Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive station location.
This increase in enrollment, along with increased events at the arena, would provide additional potential ridership for a rail station in Palm Desert.
Figure 3 shows the local context of the project.
Figure 3: Local Context Map
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3.3. EXISTING LAND USES
Data from the Southern California Association
of Governments’ (SCAG) 2021 Land Use Model
was used to explore the existing land uses
in the project area. There are several vacant
parcels along the existing rail line near both
the Monterey Avenue/Dinah Shore Drive and
Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive sites; however,
the Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive site has
more vacant land that fronts an access road,
whereas the vacant land at Monterey Avenue/
Dinah Shore Drive is further from an access
road. Figure 4 on the following page shows the
existing land uses in the project area.
Figure 4: Existing Land Uses in Project Area
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The existing Amtrak station at Palm Springs
occupies approximately four acres of land.
As shown by Figure 5, assuming the Palm
Desert station will need to be at least as large
as the Palm Springs station, there are no sites
east of the Eldorado Drive area that could
accommodate a sufficiently large station.
Figure 5: Unbuilt Land Ownership along Project Corridor Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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Figure 6: Zoning in Project Area
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3.4. ZONING
Zoning data was obtained from the City of Palm Desert’s Interactive Zoning Map to explore the current zoning scheme in the project area. The parcels near the Monterey Avenue/Dinah Shore Drive site are zoned primarily for commercial use with some service industry. The parcels near the Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive site are zoned for commercial, service industry and residential use. Figure 6 below shows the current zoning for the project areas.
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3.5. ROADWAY VOLUMES
Annual average daily traffic (AADT) volumes
for 2022 were obtained for the project area
from the Replica platform (gathered from
anonymized cell phone data) and verified
with AADT figures gathered in March 2022
for other projects in Palm Desert. Monterey
Avenue has the highest AADT figures in the
project area, with particularly high volumes
south of the I-10 freeway, near the Monterey
Avenue/Dinah Shore Drive site. Cook Street
also has high volumes, particularly south of
the I-10 freeway. The Monterey Avenue/Dinah
Shore Drive intersection is one of the busiest
intersections in the project area, while the
Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive intersection
has significantly less volume. Figure 7 shows
the AADT volumes in the project area. This
data will inform the traffic analysis that will be
performed later in the feasibility study.
Figure 7: Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) Volumes in Project Area Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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3.6. EXISTING TRANSIT FACILITIES AND RIDERSHIP
SunLine Transit is the agency that provides transit service for the Coachella Valley. Data from SunLine was obtained to examine the current state of transit service in the City. Palm Desert is currently served by SunLine Transit routes 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10. Routes 1-7 are local routes, while Route 10 is the Commuter Link line that connects Indio, Palm Desert and other Coachella Valley communities with San Bernardino and the Metrolink rail system. Route 10 provides service similar to that of the proposed rail service and demonstrates that there is existing demand for transit connections to the Inland Empire and connecting rail services to Los Angeles and Orange County.
There is connectivity with Route 4 at the Monterey Avenue/Dinah Shore Drive site. This connects Palm Springs International Airport with the Shops at Palm Desert—with stops serving Downtown Palm Springs, Desert Highland Gateway Estates, Desert Park Estates, Thousand Palms, Monterey Marketplace Shopping Center, and Rancho Mirage, and College of the Desert.
Table 1: SunLine Ridership Figures (Fiscal Year 2022)
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There is connectivity with Routes 5 and 10
near the Cook Street/Gerald Ford Drive site.
Route 5 runs from Desert Hot Springs to Desert
Crossing Shopping Center in Palm Desert with
stops serving CSUSB PDC and University of
California Riverside-Palm Desert (UC-Riverside
PD). Figure 8 shows the current transit service
and stops in Palm Desert. The proposed rail
station would provide an opportunity to form
a new transit hub that SunLine can use to
coordinate local services and provide a nexus
for campus, station, resident, and commercial
transportation uses with high potential for new
transit-oriented development.
The ridership figures from Fiscal Year 2022
for the routes in Palm Desert are shown
in Table 1. Route 1 has the highest yearly
ridership, followed by Route 4, and Route 6.
Figure 8: Existing SunLine Transit Routes and Stops in Palm Desert Route
1 4 5 6 7 10
Passengers
898,073 188,347 12,676 78,443 64,168 19,948
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Boardings in FY 2022 at each bus stop in
Palm Desert are shown in Figure 9. The
stops near CSUSB PDC had a total of 5,203
boardings. The stop with the highest ridership
was at Town Center Way and Hahn Road, with
a total of 81,892 boardings. This stop includes
service on the Amtrak Thruway bus to Fullerton
Station, which has the potential for inclusion in
the proposed rail station. Providing a seamless
connection between Amtrak Thruway Service
and the proposed rail service would improve
the ease of transfer for thousands of riders per
year. The terminus stop of the Route 7 service
at Washington Street and Harris Lane had
14,934 boardings. There is also the potential to
extend this service to the proposed rail station.
Figure 9: Transit Boardings in FY 22
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*Additional ridership analysis located in the appendix. 16 Table 2: Station Ridership Estimates (2028)
Station Number of All Trips
(Origin and Destination)
Percent of Trips Captured by
Rail Service Daily Ridership Estimates
Coachella 13,371 0.50% 67
Indio 51,014 0.50% 255
Loma Linda 164 0.50% 1
Riverside 2,257 0.50% 11
Fullerton 46 0.50% 1
Los Angeles 1,416 0.50% 7
Total Daily Ridership Estimate (2028) 350
3.7. RIDERSHIP ESTIMATES
Based on figures from the origin-destination analysis of the Existing Conditions Report, projections for future daily ridership figures in 2028 were created for the Palm Desert rail station, as well as additional stations that may be constructed as part of new rail service from Los Angeles to the Coachella Valley. These estimates assume that the rail service would capture 0.5% of the trips between Palm Desert and the other station areas.
Table 2 below shows the ridership from each rail station and the percentage of all trips that the service is projected to capture. This is intended to be a conservative estimate that does not take into account some of the additional draws such as events at Acrisure Arena, more connectivity between CSUSB campuses, and increases in capture due to future service enhancements. This shows that regional transit use over the San Gorgonio pass could increase by ten times the current ridership on SunLine Commuter Link, largely attributable to the ability to by-pass congestion and the increased reach of a single seat ride.*
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4. COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY The City and project team held two public meetings to gather input on a preferred station location for the RCTC Mid Valley Station.
Topics discussed included information about the future Transit Hub’s design principles, context, fit, adjacencies, and site constraints. Meetings also collected information about who a new passenger rail station could benefit—from residents to visitors.
Materials related to each public open house was also posted on the City’s website “engagepalmdesert.com.” A sample of Online comments are shown below, as well as key themes from the public meetings in Table 3:
◢ “I think this project would be great for residents and visitors alike. It will help attract younger folks to the desert and minimize traffic.”
◢ “Ideal for both tourism and commuting; I am among the remote workers who moved to the valley from LA in 2020.
I regularly travel back, and I would love to have rail as an option for the commute.”
◢ “We need this and have needed it for at least 30 years. Our Valley needs to join the 21st Century. Less air pollution and A win for all.”
◢ “A must for future growth and combatting climate change.” Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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Table 3: Key Themes from the Public Meetings
Topics Key Themes
July 2023
In Person Open House
• Overall project timeframe, the planned route, and role of RCTC in selecting a station in the Mid-Valley Region
• City of Palm Desert station location options (six options shown) • Station selection design principles (see Chapter 5)
• Prototypical characteristics of a desired station facility or “Transit Hub” including examples of non-motorized facilities, parking access and passenger amenity
• Considerations of local service connections and supporting transportation modes, such as micro mobility, cycle routes, shuttles etc. • Review of conceptual station location nearby existing and proposed development
• Recommendation at the Open House One to move forward three Cook Street sites
• Support for the Cook Street Corridor locations, interest in leveraging a partnership with the CSUSB planned campus expansion
• Interest and support for station locations that are accessible to the Acrisure Arena
• Support for complementary non-motorized access improvements and connecting into a future CV Link
• Support for station locations with good regional access, and proximity to existing City commercial areas
• Support for the “Transit Hub” concept and provision of adequate passenger amenities – shaded waiting areas
• Interest and support for the provision of parking supply; questions on how much parking and type of parking
• Strong support for the rail line generally
November 2023
In person Open House
• Site selection results: two of the Cook Street sites (C1 and C2) accommodate a future RCTC station
• Conceptual site plans for the Cook Street sites highlighting potential facility programs and elements including station facility, parking structures and transit-oriented development
• A Vision for the Valley: key best practices and design ideas to make the passenger rail station a new gateway to the valley
• Community programming opportunities
• Next Steps
• Interest and support for rail station in the Cook Street vicinity both in online comments, at the City’s Engage Page, and from Open House participants. Many comments included a desire to see the line completed quickly; “desperately needed” to mitigate traffic • Interest and support for rail station for remote work and commuters to LA and to support those who cannot or do not wish to drive. • Concern about stormwater at Cook Street Site due to the impacts of recent flooding
• An individual voiced concern about crime; discussion of activated site design to mitigate
• Interest in improving Coachella Valley connectedness, seeking future rail coordination with local transit service, and first/last mile options • Interest and support for a staffed passenger facility and access to parking
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4.1. CONSULTED INTEREST HOLDERS
During this project, the project team and City of Palm Desert met with the following:
1. Riverside County Regional Rail Commission: Several meetings were held to understand RCTC project goals, high level design constraints for platform access, operations, and site assumptions in support of conceptual site plans.
2. California State University San Bernadino. Discussion of proposed rail station locations and discussion of opportunities to coordinate planning with the future campus expansion. The University issued a letter of support for the Cook Street sites.
3. The Berger Partnership and Acrisure Arena: Discussion of proposed rail station locations. Exploration and discussion of partnership opportunities associated with the Transit Hub vision, initial exploration of existing and projected demand for event-related parking, and desired access improvements. There was support for a Palm Desert passenger rail facility at the Cook Street locations.
4. Local Homeowner Associations: Discussion of site boundaries, ownership, and potential impacts at Cook Street, and all potential station site locations. General support for locations that is not adjacent to residential development. Portola and Monterey Avenue site locations were not preferred.
5. The City of Palm Desert conducted meetings with other select property owners who might be impacted by changes at all potential host locations, including the site C1 property owner.
6. Local Transit Service Operators – SunLine and Greyhound: Discussion about preferred site programs, design constraints, and operations requirements. Discussion of several scenarios for bus facility lay out, access, and lay over space.
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
5. PRIORITIZATION OF PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
The Palm Desert Transit Hub’s development should be strategically prioritized, aligning with the initiation schedules of services from the collective cities, regions, and RCTC. The foundational premise is that the site will serve as a multimodal hub catering to local and regional needs, even before the commencement of rail services. It will initially support basic functionalities for buses, shuttles, and parking, with provisions for expansion in anticipation of rail services. Should the City decide to commence site enhancements ahead of rail operations, the following prioritization framework is proposed:
5.1. SITE PREPARATION
The initial step involves executing preliminary site work and establishing the City’s stormwater management system. Early construction efforts will focus on rough grading, soil stabilization, and the installation of essential site utilities, including sewer, stormwater management systems, water, power, and communication infrastructure such as fiber optics.
5.2. SITE CIRCULATION AND PARKING
Development of site access and internal circulation routes to support the transit services initially provided. This encompasses constructing roundabouts at station entry points on Gerald Ford Drive, facilitating ingress to parking spaces, and arranging drop-off/pick-up lanes. The infrastructure would also extend to bikeways and facilities; multi-use paths; associated utilities encompassing site and path lighting, solar installations, charging stations; and sidewalks.
The development of parking facilities can be scaled to align with passenger volume and potential shared use by Acrisure Arena and/or CSUSB. A surface parking lot can be provisioned initially with structured parking planned to coincide with rail service. The full buildout of anticipated structured parking needs would be required to be built at once if a single garage is proposed.
The construction of bus access points and passenger zones may proceed simultaneously or be deferred based on the anticipated services.
Initially, regional and local bus services could share the designated passenger pick-up/drop-off areas. With the increase in bus service coinciding with the start of rail operations, dedicated bus loops and stops could be established.
5.3. STATION FACILITIES
The station facilities and supporting amenities could be introduced prior to or simultaneously with the introduction of rail service. The facilities would include the Station Building, incorporating air-conditioned waiting areas, ticketing and information services, restrooms, concessions, and back of house. The facilities would be developed to accommodate RCTC, SunLine, and the City of Palm Desert. Together with the station building, the bike station, and vehicle rental service kiosks would be built along with exterior waiting areas, shade structures, and landscaping.
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5.4. RAIL PLATFORMS AND VERTICAL CIRCULATION
Predicated on the development of the RCTC rail services, this phase would see the construction of rail platforms, shelters, passenger amenities, pedestrian overcrossing, elevators, and stairs, supported by necessary services, including signage and wayfinding, and utilities such as lighting, power, and water.
5.5. TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TOD)
IMPROVEMENTS
TOD Improvements could be prioritized based on the timing of the collective cities, regions, and RCTC services are scheduled to begin.
The base assumption is rough utility stub outs and services to the TOD sites would be constructed during the site preparation phase and each site would be developed by their respective developers.
This structured approach allows the Palm Desert Transit Hub to evolve in phases, integrating with future transportation services while catering to immediate and future mobility demands.
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
6. STATION SITE SELECTION AND FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS
6.1. STATION SITE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Palm Desert occupies a strategic position in the heart of the Coachella Valley, located at the midpoint of the RCTC’s “Mid Valley” station geography. It is equidistant, about 15 miles, from both the existing Palm Springs Station and the future Indio/Coachella terminus station. The City envisions a new RCTC station location and facility design that leverages this centrality, facilitating valley accessibility for residents and visitors alike, and creating a new, convenient gateway for its many destinations.
The site locations describe connections with vital regional transportation routes; are adjacent to land uses such as employment, education, healthcare, culture, and leisure; and are accessible to a wide range of amenities. All sites benefit from excellent access notably the Cook Street multimodal corridor connecting I-10 with State Route 111 (SR-111)—the main north-south transit route and retail corridor serving the Coachella Valley.
The site considerations aim to:
◢ Establish the best site that will serve all residents and accommodate other transportation modes, including SunLine Transit Agency ◢ Identify and test a preliminary design on the selected site, suitable for intercity passenger rail service
◢ Demonstrate how an accessible station would function
Design goals for the future station location are:
Community Serving. The station location should provide equitable access for all communities in the Coachella Valley, local and regional visitors, and vulnerable populations.
Accessible. A future station location should have excellent site access for vehicles, buses, and pedestrians. It should be proximate to major streets, Coachella Valley assets, and key destinations.
Intuitive Arrival. The future station should be highly visible with a functional site configuration.
Connected. A future station should enable future connections to local transit service providers and support a range of transportation alternatives.
Supports Economic Development. The selected station location should facilitate partnerships with other Valley stakeholders and be attractive to uses that can complement a future station.
Future Flexibility. The site location should provide adequate space for an appropriately scaled facility and the ability to expand in the future.
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6.2. STATION LOCATION PRELIMINARY SELECTION
AND SCREENING
The project team identified site areas suitable for a future RCTC Mid-Valley Station. All preliminary station locations exhibit the following attributes:
◢ Location adjacent to the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) Right-of-Way (ROW) that will support 1000’ long platforms
◢ Available undeveloped parcels along the ROW boundary edge of sufficient size to enable adequate site circulation, parking, and facilities (+/- 4 acres)
◢ Adjacency to existing or planned commercial, retail, and transit supportive land uses (e.g., services, educational, hospitality, medical, leisure, recreational facilities, etic.)
◢ Excellent access to regional street networks and access to nearby local transit service
The team focused on the locations with direct access to north-south multimodal corridors connecting I-10 with SR-111, supporting regional connectivity. Multimodal corridors assessed:
◢ Monterey Avenue, a north-south corridor with direct I-10 access with auto-oriented commercial, retail, and shopping near the station area ◢ Portola Avenue, a street with a planned I-10 freeway connection adjacent to hospitality and residential areas and a new city park ◢ Cook Street corridor, an area with existing entertainment, retail and residential uses, and a planned expansion of the CSUSB Palm Desert, and UCR PD campus. Cook Street is also designated for a future micromobility network and planned “complete street” roadway improvements The pre-screened identified sites are shown in Figure 10. This screening was presented in a City of Palm Desert Public Open House in July 2023. The screening focused on topics related to improved connectivity for riders, mobility and access, site challenges, and future development opportunities. The site assessment process from the July 2023 open house shown in Table 4 resulted in the three Cook Street sites ranking the highest.
Qualitative assessment and key questions included:
Rider Experience: Does the station option enable direct and safe connections to I-10 and the local/regional street network? Does it connect to bikeways, cart paths, and pedestrian infrastructure? Does the site present an opportunity for reducing reliance on personal vehicles? Is its location visible and prominent?
Mobility and Access: Does the option improve on traffic and other modes’ circulation and management needs (access to parking, station, or entertainment activities)?
Challenges: Is the project consistent with the City’s vision and land use goals? Do adjacent land uses support a station location? Is there construction, geometric, or technical feasibility challenges? Do specific spatial or other constraints preclude a station? Is there infrastructure to support it?
Future Investment: Is the location favorable for development? What partnership opportunities are available? Does the station location fit into the City’s or stakeholder’s identified goals and priorities? Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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Figure 10: Identified Station Sites
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
Table 4: Station Site Assessment, July 2023 Open House
Station Site
Locations Rider Experience Mobility and Access Challenges Future Investment Advance? Monterey
Ave M1
Limited visibility
into proposed site,
adjacent development
is less walkable.
Monterey Ave is a higher traffic
volume, auto-oriented corridor
connecting to the I-10. The
intersection of Monterey Ave and
Dinah Shore Dr has the third
highest number of collisions
in the City. Micro-mobility
connections are challenging
along Monterey due to the higher
traffic volumes and speeds.
Site is space constrained for
passenger drop off and arrival
via car. Less connected for
local bus service.
Redevelopment of adjacent
parcels to transit-oriented
uses requires collaboration of
adjacent private landowners.
No
Portola
Avenue
P1
Site has good connections
to south and central Palm
Desert. Adjacent to planned
developments to the
south and east.
Portola connects a series of
residential neighborhoods. It
has separated bike facilities and
lower traffic volumes.
Site is adjacent to a future
Portola freeway over crossing
and exit for site access.
Portola is a lower intensity
roadway which could
allow for micro-mobility
network connections.
Adjacent to residential
development; transit uses
may be incongruous.
Potential for new Portola
Avenue I-10 crossing.
Low TOD opportunity.
Located within lower scale
residential neighborhood.
No
P2
Limited quick access to
the site due to reliance on
smaller secondary roads.
Station site is located within
a planned city park.
Requires use of land planned
for city park/open space.
Site is adjacent to residential
uses which could be sensitive
to station noise.
Limited opportunity for
denser housing. Potential
opportunity to coordinate with
future public park to create a
“park station”.
No
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Station Site Locations Rider Experience Mobility and Access Challenges Future Investment Advance? Cook
Street
C1
Adjacent to retail, good
visibility from Cook
Street and I-10
Cook Street is identified
in the General Plan as a
“multimodal corridor.”
Cook Street is transitioning
to become an important
connector across the city,
connecting the University area,
the resorts along Cook Street,
and downtown Palm Desert via
Fred Waring and Highway 111.
Challenged vehicle circulation
and entry approach. Location
is further from core of CSUSB
campus and Arisure Arena.
Cook Street bridge structure
over tracks poses constraints
onto rail alignment and
platform positioning.
Redevelopment of adjacent
parcels to transit oriented uses
requires collaboration of adjacent
private landowners.
Yes
C2
Well connected to
proposed CSUSB Palm
Desert Campus expansion.
Visibility from freeway.
Location is further from
Acrisure Arena. More
constrained site development
between two already
developed sites.
High TOD opportunity. Supports
General Plan goal to facilitate
the development of a universityoriented neighborhood
and “town center”
Yes
C3
Well connected to proposed
CSUSB Palm Desert
Campus expansion.
Visibility from freeway.
Potential for future bridge
crossing to the north side
of I-10 with a connection to
Acrisure Arena.
Access to Acrisure Arena is
contingent on a future bridge
crossing over the 1-10.
High TOD opportunity. Supports
General Plan goal to facilitate
the development of a universityoriented neighborhood
and “town center.”
Closest location to Acrisure Arena
with potential for coordination
of on/off site shared parking
and future connection crossing
I-10 to the arena.
Yes
Due to various challenges, the city decided to not move forward with sites M1, P1, and P2. Though they are vacant, M1 is adjacent to the highest collision intersection in the city, making micro mobility and transit options limited and challenging. Meanwhile, P1 and P2 sit along Portola Ave., a lower volume residential street and a future planned park area, making a popular station area incongruous with surrounding uses.
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Transit Facility Design Assumptions
To assess suitability of the station sites moving forward (C1, C2, and C3), the project team established high-level assumptions including platform criteria, transit facility requirements, parking, bus accommodations, and transit-oriented development objectives. Critical siting parameters for the rail platform and station structures were developed in coordination with RCTC.
The assumptions led to preliminary concept plans for sites C2 and C3.
Preliminary concept plans were shared in a second Public Open House in November 2023. Building from comments on C2 and C3 and further study of the assumptions below, a preferred conceptual site plan was developed and is shown in Section 5.3.
Siting Constraints
Future rail platforms and stations must meet RCTC technical requirements and its forthcoming station design criteria. All facilities sited within the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) right-of-way (ROW) are subject to UPRR approval. RCTC is coordinating directly with UPRR to clarify these constraints. Final platform and track configurations remain unresolved at this time and will evolve during subsequent phases of this project led by RCTC.
Design assumptions, listed below in Figure 11, build from the RCTC San Gorgonio Passenger Rail Corridor Service Program Tier 1 EIS/EIR, and incorporate accessibility, fire and life safety standards, and Amtrak passenger facility design standards1.
◢ Trackway: The RCTC San Gorgonio Pass Project will provide three mainline tracks vs the two currently located in the UPRR ROW. UPRR’s ROW is 150 feet wide, and with the addition of the new mainline, additional ROW will be required at the station platform locations to accommodate two platforms and the required access roads etc. For purposes of the facility concept development and station siting, the team assumed the north mainline track will relocate to accommodate the 3rd mainline track while the south mainline track will be modified to accommodate a new center passenger platform.
◢ Operations: Operating passenger rail services within a UPRR freight corridor presents constraints due to the different operational, safety, and infrastructure requirements of freight service. To preserve operational flexibility for both freight and passenger operator’s platforms allow for RCTC trains operating on any of the main line tracks in either direction to arrive at the platform. Both a center and side platform configuration have been considered.
◢ Crossings: UPPR does not allow at grade crossings of the mainline track. All passenger access to the center platform will require a grade-separated crossing to access the platform including elevators, and bridge connection. A side platform can be accessed at-grade, passengers may board and alight into the station building directly.
While either an undercrossing or overcrossing is acceptable, an overcrossing is the assumed alternative for this study. ◢ Clearances and Protections: UPRR requires a clearance envelope of 23’-4” above top of rail, 5‘-6” from center line of track to the edge of platform and 12’-4” inches from the centerline of track to any permanent structure.
1 AMTRAK Station and Development Guidelines, January 2022, v.4 Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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Platform Assumptions:
◢ (1) 36-foot-wide center platform serving passengers in both directions located between the two northerly mainline tracks
◢ (1) 20’ wide side platform served outside of the third mainline track ◢ A pedestrian bridge spans the two most southerly tracks providing platform access and egress to the center platform
◢ Platform length: 1,000-foot platforms accommodate up to 10 cars ◢ Providing shade and mitigating wind are important for passenger comfort and have been included as a design assumption for the platform. A 36-foot-wide center platform allows up to 16 feet of shelter width. Maximizing the canopy width will address low sun angles Additional site constraints:
◢ The City of Palm Desert owns and manages an open storm drainage channel that extends along the boundary between the UPRR ROW and the Cook Street station sites. The open storm drainage channel may preclude an underpass or below grade platform connections due to flood mitigation and conflicts with the channel construction and management ◢ Stormwater management will include an on-site stormwater retention area on the C3 site
◢ High voltage power transmission lines run along the south edge of the ROW within city-owned property at the north end of the C- sites. Further study will be required to assess the cost and feasibility to underground the power lines to accommodate the pedestrian overcrossing to the platform. Design assumptions assume undergrounding to avoid interference
◢ All sites are susceptible to high winds and blowing sand.
Mitigating sand accumulation is a consideration for building and passenger amenity siting
◢ Heat and sun require mitigation with large outdoor shade canopies at all outdoor passenger waiting areas and pedestrian walkways.
Figure 11: Station Platform and Track Design Assumptions
PREFERRED SCHEME
SCHEME B
ACCESS ROAD
ACCESS ROAD
VARIES PER SITE SELECTI0N
VARIES PER SITE SELECTI0N
30'
30'
30'
30'
100'
100'
1000'
1000'
46' - 8"
46' - 8"
20'
20'
20'
100+00
100+00
106+00
106+00
118+00
118+00
124+00
124+00
36'
36'
20'
20'
20'
20'
100'
100'
108'
108'
20'
20'
20'
20'
ML 1
ML 1
ML 2
ML 2
ML 3
ML 3
ACCESS ROAD
ACCESS ROAD
COOK ST COOK ST
UPRR ROW
UPROW
INTERSTATE 10
INTERSTATE 10
LEGEND
Existing Rail
New Rail
Station
Platform
Access Bridge
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Vertical Circulation and Connectivity Assumptions
A pedestrian overcrossing to the center platform vs an undercrossing for the reasons cited above form the basis of the conceptual design.
To meet accessibility requirements to the platform, both ramps and elevators were considered. The UPRR height clearances above top of rail to the underside of the pedestrian overcrossing is 23’-4” with a total vertical distance of ~ 30’ from the station level. The preferred solution is installing elevators over ramps for the above grade crossing. This preference is based on several factors, including space constraints, the impact on the platform’s usability, and the overall efficiency of passenger movement. Long ramps, extending over 400 feet on either side of the bridge, were considered impractical for several reasons:
◢ Space Constraints: The platform space is limited, and long ramps would significantly encroach upon areas intended for passengers and amenities—such as seating areas, information boards, and other facilities
◢ Passenger Experience: The use of long ramps would adversely affect the travel time for passengers, making it more timeconsuming and physically taxing to access the train platform. This could be especially challenging for those with mobility issues or those carrying luggage, potentially making the station less accessible to a portion of the public
Given these considerations, elevators are seen as the preferred solution to provide an accessible route to the center platform. Elevators would occupy less space, have minimal impact on the platform’s functional areas, and offer a quicker, more efficient way for all passengers, including those with disabilities, to access the platform. This aligns with the goal of making public transportation systems accessible to everyone, following principles of universal design and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
It is proposed that the pedestrian bridge provide direct connections to both the parking structure and the station building to minimize walking distances and reduce the potential need to go up and down multiple times between destinations. This shared use of elevators can also enhance convenience for commuter passengers by providing a seamless transition between parking, the station, and train services.
Ancillary Uses and Structures
The site selection processes considered both the potential and ease for on-site transit-oriented development at the Cook Street sites to enhance site functionality and convenience. Various scenarios were evaluated for buildings, public space, parking, access routes, and use mix. The City of Palm Desert Zoning and Land Use policies will determine the type, scale, and volume of permitted development.
Local Transit Service
This study assumes a maximum coach/bus length of 45-feet and no future articulated buses (this would require larger turning radii and maneuvering space). Straight curbs are preferred over sawtooth bus geometries. No fueling or charging infrastructure needs are anticipated in the current program. A dedicated bus loop and dedicated curb space should be included to avoid conflicts with vehicular traffic.
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Local Road Access
Gerald Ford Drive is the primary access point to the station site via Cook Street, which in turn provides access to other Palm Desert neighborhoods and I-10, or Frank Sinatra Drive. Traffic analysis has shown that there is sufficient roadway capacity on Cook Street and the I-10 interchange to support new development and station activity. Gerald Ford Drive will need to be expanded to allow 2 travel lanes in both directions with appropriate turn lanes and intersection control at major campus entrances, the station entrance, and for the proposed new fire station. The station design concept and cost estimates assume construction of a roundabout at the station entrance. Figure 12 shows the anticipated profile for Gerald Ford Drive that will support a multimodal friendly neighborhood access route. 5 Sustainability
Potential conditions:
• ‘Right-sized’ street
• Environment for walking and biking
• Wide sidewalks and two-way cycle track
• Supportive of transit-oriented development
Figure 12: Anticipated profile for Gerald Ford Drive
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Other Physical Design Constraints
The City of Palm Desert owns and manages
an open storm drainage channel that abuts the
UPRR ROW to the south. It is assumed that the
open storm drainage channel may preclude an
underpass or below grade platform connections
due to flood mitigation and conflicts with the
channel construction and management. The
City of Palm Desert is also exploring approaches
to mitigate stormwater—especially in the
Cook Street corridor. Options for stormwater
management may include a new stormwater
retention area on the C3 site. The design of this
area is outside the scope of this study. Highpowered transmission lines line the south edge of the ROW within city-owned property. Further
study will be required to assess the cost and
feasibility to underground elevated power lines.
This feasibility study assumes power lines are
underground to avoid interference with a bridge
overcrossing to the platforms.
Selecting the Preferred Site Location
The project team applied the design
assumptions to the three Cook Street Sites to
understand the potential for each site to host
the station facility. Findings are summarized
below and shown in Figure 13.
Figure 13: Cook Street Site Evaluation Map
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
Cook Street evaluation findings:
Both C2 and C3 have the technical ability to host the rail platform and ancillary station structure.
C1: While the site is of sufficient size and strategically located near Cook Street, it faces significant challenges. Access to the site from Gerald Ford Drive and the CSUSB campus is indirect, which complicates access to the site for vehicles and buses and creates circulation challenges. The site is constrained from the Cook Street overcrossing bridge abutments and columns that restrict where a rail turnout can begin for the start of the platform. The site visibility from both Cook Street and the I-10 freeway is also negatively impacted due to the overcrossing ramp structures.
C2: While smallest in size, C2 provides adequate area for a transit facility and offers good connections to the CSUSB campus planned expansion, and good site visibility. A drawback is a planned development on the site at of the time of this report’s publication which may eliminate it as a viable option.
C3: This is the largest site and offers more area than C1/C2. C3 meets all design assumptions and offers flexibility for a variety of complementary programs/development. The C3 site is directly accessible from the CSUSB campus expansion and may offer a “Gateway” opportunity to welcome visitors to the campus. The site has high TOD opportunity and potential to coordinate for on or-off-site parking for Arena. There is potential for future bridge crossing to north side of I-10 and connection to Acrisure Arena. There is also potential to coordinate for on or-off-site parking for Arena. This location supports the City of Palm Desert’s General Plan goal to facilitate the development of a university-oriented neighborhood. A stormwater mitigation study is currently underway.
C3 is the preferred location. This site offers not only flexibility for a future station platform but has the potential to support broader city goals and leverages the potential expansion of the CSUSB campus and access to Acrisure Arena. The City is in discussions with the property owner to purchase the parcel.
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Palm Desert’s vision for a future RCTC station is
to create a “transit hub” serving the Coachella
Valley and provide options for all Coachella
Valley residents and visitors integrated travel
options to connect where they work, learn, live,
shop, and play. The vision for the Transit-Hub is
to create a safe, vibrant, and accessible station
area providing users access to communityoriented services and affordable housing, together with compatible off-peak secondary
uses to create resource-efficient, high-quality,
and environmentally healthy developments
that maximize the social and economic vitality
of the region.
The conceptual Transit Hub design will serve
RCTC rail passengers and future Amtrak
passengers as well. The design accommodates
local bus and shuttle transfers, facilitates park
and ride uses, transfers between micro-mobility
options, and connects to the City’s bike network
extending to CV Link. The site can also be
developed incrementally, and in coordination
with its adjacent landowners – UCR and CSUSB.
Key elements to be considered for a successful
station area include (see Figure 14):
Figure 14: Palm Desert Transit Hub Visioning Sketch
6.3. THE PALM DESERT TRANSIT HUB VISION
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Transit Facility Program
Building from the vision above and meeting the design assumptions listed in section 5.2., a conceptual site plan and station renderings (Figures 14, 15, 16, and 17) illustrates the transit facility’s core components and includes opportunities for a future final build out scenario. Core components shown on the site plan are:
1. Center and Side Rail Platforms
2. Dedicated Local and Regional Bus Pick Up and Drop Off
3. Passenger Amenity Spaces and Shade Covered Outdoor Waiting Area and Pedestrian Circulation
4. Station Services/TOD Development Opportunities
5. Structured Parking
6. On-Site Stormwater Retention Basin
7. Multimodal Connections to CSUSB Campus
Cycling, rideshare, transit, shuttles, private buses, event mobility, micro-mobility, car share, and pedestrian access are accommodated in the transit hub concept.
Figure 15: Palm Desert Transit Facility Conceptual Site Plan Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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Figure 17: Palm Desert Transit Facility Rendering
Figure 16: Palm Desert Transit Facility Conceptual Site Plan #2 Figure 18: Palm Desert Transit Facility Rendering #2
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Identifying Opportunities
ᇷCreate a destination through placemaking:
Passengers will alight from the train and platform into an activated station building and welcoming “station square”. The concept illustrated above focuses on the arrival experience that accentuates relaxed easy access into “the heart of the Coachella Valley”. The station will be designed to host quality, hospitality-conscious visitors and residents. The building will encompass ticketing functions, wayfinding, and passenger amenity space (e.g., concierge/visitor center, bathrooms, waiting areas, etc). Plantings serve a useful passenger comfort function by providing shading and visual interest. Future designs should consider strategically incorporating plantings to provide shade for walking and waiting areas as well as reduce heat island effects of paved areas. Water elements and passive evaporative cooling should also be incorporated. Native plants will be selected to support local biomes and flora/fauna. Preliminary concepts for the station facility are described as follows:
◢ Generous conditioned space for waiting, ticketing, and support spaces ◢ Integrated retail and passenger amenities (e.g. concierge (security), bathrooms, coffee kiosk, etc.)
◢ Ancillary administrative spaces are included as components of the station building
◢ A shaded porte cochere, drop off area, and landscaped plaza area support passenger comfort for those leaving and arriving at the station ◢ Comfortable outdoor waiting space incorporated into the station site ◢ Flexible curb space will facilitate the transfer to multiple transportation modes
◢ At least 200 feet to facilitate transportation network companies (TNC) and shuttle drop offs as well as passenger vehicle drop offs ᇷExplore Opportunities for Transit Oriented and Joint Development:
Land uses on the site should support/compliment transit and visitorserving usage. This might include walkable convenience retail, food and beverage, and other activities that contribute to create an active environment. Land uses may also be oriented to pre- or post-event visitors and can make the area a destination for evening event goers at the nearby arena. A hotel, and on-site hospitality functions, may have some potential to encourage rail service passengers to stay overnight and be able to visit the valley car-free. The project team explored the opportunity for leasable square footage to be incorporated into the station building or into the ground-floor of the parking garage.
The anticipated growth of the CSUSB campus is certain to be augmented by the arrival of rail service, and offer greater and more convenient access for students throughout the region. Additionally, the “town square” with complementary uses identified above broadens the campus offering for both students and faculty.
ᇷPlanning for Regional Bus Service:
SunLine does not operate on Gerald Ford Drive; however, growth may enable future direct services or interchanges at the proposed transit facility. SunLine’s Number 10 Bus Line is a commuter service with a stop at CSUSB and along I-10. In the future, SunLine service could complement both the new passenger rail commuters and the expanded campus, including reoriented routes.
There is an opportunity to include a bus layover at the station facility, as well as a future driver breakroom. In the case of mechanical breakdowns or bus exchanges, a parking zone for disabled buses should be considered if space allows.
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Based on meetings with SunLine, the draft concept plan assumes a 45- foot coach/bus maximum length and no future articulated buses (which would require larger turning radii and maneuvering space). Straight curbs are slightly preferred over sawtooth bus geometries. Future fleets may include hydrogen or electric operation, but no fueling or charging infrastructure needs are anticipated. A dedicated bus loop and dedicated curb space is shown to avoid conflicts and delays with private vehicular traffic.
POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Further discussions with SunLine will ensure the new station site fits into the future SunLine network and creates those first/last mile connections with the surrounding Coachella Valley.
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ᇷ Beyond Traditional Transit Operations:
The Palm Desert Station facility could offer opportunities for partnerships with regional institutions, event operators, and destinations. For example, the transit facility can serve as a connection point for rail passengers to resorts, local casinos, event spaces such as Acrisure, annual festivals, sports events, local and regional tour operators, and others.
The site design can support passengers arriving on foot, by car, transit, micro-mobility, or other means. Programs envisioned for the future station are listed below, and shown in Figure 19.
◢ Bus exchange to local transit providers (SunLine)
◢ Flexible curb space for rideshare such as TNCs,
Drop Off/Pick Ups, Taxis
◢ Shuttles and private buses (ex: events)
◢ Micro-mobility and rental/share programs (ex: E-bike, golf cart parking or rental)
◢ On-demand car rental parking and pick up/drop off
◢ Passenger amenity spaces such as protected waiting areas ◢ Complementary site uses such as convenience, retail, or eateries. ◢ Parking for long-term and short-term users
Facilitating these connections would require planning for appropriate curb space for peak passenger loads meeting arriving trains. Exploring partnerships to mode-shift visitors to rail travel can help facilitate a reduction in VMT for visitors and residents of the Coachella Valley. Private operators may own and maintain their own vehicle fleets or sub-contract at specific times for special events.
Figure 19: Example of Envisioned Programs for the Palm Desert Rail Station Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Continue to coordinate with SunLine on future service network expansion to serve a future transit facility
◢ Explore options to connect existing commuter services with on-site parking and other mobility connections
◢ Plan future micro-mobility networks (golf cart paths, bike lanes, etc) into the buildout of the transit facility
◢ Explore opportunities for partnerships with shared parking, shuttles, and intermodal transfer to leverage public and private investment with institutions, neighbors, key valley destinations, and stakeholders ᇷPark-and-Ride Facilities
Parking can be phased to expand as service increases. Commuter and short-term parking will become more desirable as rail service increases in frequency. Lower frequency train schedules are less attractive for commuter riders, but would be appropriate for CSUSB students, day trips, weekend trips, leisure trips, or longer periods of time.
At full rail service in the future, a structured parking garage is assumed on the site to allow for shaded and protected parking and to free up adjacent land for transit supportive/complementary uses and facilitate the establishment of a new “town center.” A parking garage serving riders is also assumed in the final configuration. POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Further study is required to confirm phased parking quantities, types, and arrangement in coordination with RCTC passenger ridership estimates and potential site users
◢ Identify opportunities for shared off-site parking for Acrisure Arena, or with CSUSB. These alternative parking uses can leverage investments and improve the return on investment (ROI) for built parking infrastructure ᇷOpportunities for Connections and Improvements to the
Street Network:
A new Class-I bikeway assumed along the rail alignment will complement the Coachella Valley’s network of E-vehicle (ex: Golf Cart) and multimodal pathways (Ex: Coachella Valley Link).
POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Coordinate multimodal connections to the south to adjacent developments and the CSUSB campus core
◢ Consider opportunities to tie into valley networks more broadly (i.e. such as along the Cook Street corridor).
ᇷPublic Improvements:
Gerald Ford Drive is the key access road that will provide access to the station site. Today Gerald Ford Drive has two lanes heading westbound and one lane heading eastbound. With the changes proposed for the CSUSB campus expansion, and a potential transit hub, this street could be redesigned to included landscape buffers, wide sidewalks, and incorporate traffic calming features to facilitate walking, biking, and micro-mobility network safety to support a walkable “town center.” Gerald Ford Drive’s character (e.g., width, pathways, mobility networks, pedestrian safety) can be considered to strengthen walkability and connectivity between the transit hub location and adjacent development and complementary uses.
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POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Lane quantities and level of service (LOS) analysis should be confirmed especially as planning for the CSUSB campus and adjacent development gets confirmed to support future traffic volumes ◢ Additional pedestrian amenities or dedicated infrastructure for bikes and micro-mobility networks can be included in any future roadway redesign
◢ Consider roundabout or traffic circle options for new intersections along Gerald Ford Drive. Similar circles have been incorporated on roadways elsewhere within the City of Palm Desert (e.g., Dinah Shore Drive and Pacific Avenue) and provided requisite traffic calming and moderated speeds to facilitate safe vehicular travel of all modes ◢ Use public realm improvements to include placemaking opportunities (e.g., traffic circles, prominent urban corners, and view corridors) that can be incorporated into future design thinking to establish “a sense of place” for the new station area and “town center”.
◢ If traffic circles are incorporated into a future Gerald Ford Drive design, coordinate with planned vehicular circulation needs (e.g., Buses, shuttles, emergency vehicle, etc. turning radii) and available site area for station site development areas.
ᇷFuture Gateway Bridge:
A future connection opportunity includes a bridge connection across I-10 to Acrisure Arena. This connection is envisioned as a pedestrian/ micro-mobility network connector that could facilitate pedestrian access all the way up to small scale shuttle vehicles.
This connection dramatically shortens the distance on the local road network between the station and the arena from about 2.5 miles via Cook Street to approximately 0.5 miles.
The connection also supports reducing auto traffic associated with large events and could facilitate the utilization of on-site station parking during off-peak times for use by arena event goers. Solving for a connection to the arena may also provide additional revenue streams to the city through parking fees or additional tax receipts from local businesses.
POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Continue to explore with Caltrans and RCTC an opportunity for a future connection to Acrisure Arena.
◢ Continued outreach with Acrisure Arena for future
transportation integration
◢ Lastly, future provisioning of an I-10 bridge crossing should be considered with future planning and opportunities for grant funding ᇷPartnerships:
Ongoing coordination with CSUSB / UCR campus planning can ensure the long-term campus vision is coordinated with any proposed transit hub planning.
POTENTIAL NEXT STEPS:
◢ Continue discussions with local property owners and
institutions (ex: CSUSB) to synergize site planning, uses, and development opportunities.
◢ New streets transportation linkages from the transit facility and through the campus should be coordinated with future campus planning. ◢ Coordinate with the planned fire station and street design along Gerald Ford Dr.
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6.4. CEQA PRELIMINARY ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY
The next steps in the RCTC San Gorgonio Pass Project will be a Tier 2 EIR/ EIS review. During this phase, a detailed assessment description of the selected project site will be developed—including location, background, objectives, and technical details. This phase also often includes necessary permits and approvals.
During environmental review, the project will focus on potential impacts and unique issues not covered (or were only covered generally) in the now complete Tier 1 analysis. During Tier 2, the project will identify and assess the “footprint” of potential station sites. As necessary, mitigation measures will address the new or more severe impacts identified.
Topics within the EIR are comprised of areas such as:
◢ Air Quality and Climate Change: Analysis of emissions resulting from construction and operation, including greenhouse gas emissions and their contribution to climate change, as well as conformity with state and federal air quality standards, appear to be within state guidelines with a net benefit from supporting multimodal alternatives to driving private vehicles
◢ Water Resources: Analysis of the project’s impact on local water supply, quality, and hydrology, including stormwater management and potential flood risks indicates the site can support potential storm water management best management practices (BMP). A further study is being conducted by the City of Palm Desert assessing this
◢ Biological Resources: Evaluation of impacts on local wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems, especially considering the Coachella Valley’s diverse desert ecology. This includes potential effects on endangered species and sensitive habitats. Initial assessment showed no adverse impacts ◢ Cultural and Historical Resources: Consideration of impacts on archaeological sites, historic buildings, and cultural landscapes, ensuring compliance with relevant preservation laws, revealed no adverse impacts ◢ Socioeconomic Impacts and Environmental Justice: Analysis of how the project affects local economies, property values, and particularly, the distribution of environmental benefits and burdens across different socioeconomic groups; ensuring equitable outcomes showed a positive impact
◢ Transportation and Traffic: Evaluation of the project’s impact on local and regional transportation networks, including traffic congestion, changes in traffic patterns, and integration with existing transportation modes showed no significant adverse impacts
◢ Noise and Vibration: Assessment of noise and vibration impacts on nearby communities from construction activities and the operation of trains, including potential mitigation measures were not assessed ◢ Land Use and Planning: An initial assessment of how the C3 project site project aligns with existing land use plans and zoning ordinances showed no adverse impacts with community benefits, including promoting sustainable land uses
◢ Visual and Aesthetic Resources: Assessment of the project’s visual impact on the surrounding landscape and urban environment, including views and community character, indicate a positive impact ◢ Public Health and Safety: Examination of how the project affects local communities’ health and safety, including emergency services accessibility, showed no adverse impacts.
A preliminary screening of both site locations, C2 and C3, showed significant environmental impacts beyond the typical are not projected.
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An area that will require further resolution in the next phase of work is assessment of cultural resources. The sites are located beyond the scope of the most recent maps conducted for the City of Palm Desert General Plan2. Consultation and coordination with local tribal entities will also be conducted during Tier 2 studies.
Site Prominence C1 C2 C3
Visual
Resources/ Aesthetics
Visibility from Street Poor Excellent Excellent
From I-10 EB – Obscured EB – Good EB – good
WB - good WB - good WB - good
From Cook obscured by ramp poor poor
From Gerald Ford obscured by development good good
Direct Connection to
Primary Travel Corridors C1 C2 C3
Traffic
and Transportation
Vehicular and Transit Access Fair Excellent Good
Distance from Arterial Cook Street .38 mi Cook Street .28 mi Cook Street .55 mi Gerald Ford .18 mi Gerald Ford 0 mi Gerald Ford 0 mi
Transit Connections Cook Street .38 mi Cook Street .28 mi Cook Street .55 mi Number of turns in /
out of property
Cook St: 5 Cook St: 2 Cook St: 2
Gerald Ford 3 Gerald Ford 1 Gerald Ford 1
Connection to CSUSB
Palm Desert Campus Indirect Direct Direct
Vehicular Connection
- Acrisure Arena Cook Street 1. 70 mi Cook Street 1.96 mi Cook Street 2.24 mi Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Good Good Good
Table 5: Palm Desert CEQA Site Evaluation
2 https://www.palmdesert.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/34535/638373010609730000 p. 90 Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
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Site Prominence C1 C2 C3
Traffic and
Transportation
(continued)
Bicycle & Golf Cart Network Direct to Cook,
indirect to Gerald Ford
Indirect to Cook,
direct to Gerald Ford
Direct to Cook,
indirect to Gerald Ford
CV Link from Cook, from Cook, N/A
CSUSB Palm Desert
Campus Connection Not aligned Alignment with primary axis Alignment
with primary axis
Acrisure Arena Cook Street 1.70mi Cook Street 1.96 mi Cook Street 2.24 mi Ped Bridge .90 mi Ped Bridge .61 mi Ped Bridge .29 mi
Site Suitability C1 C2 C3
Socioeconomic
Impact
Transit Oriented Development
(TOD) Potential Good Good Good
Buildable Area 7.1 acres 4.6 acres 8.2 acres
Mixed Use Viability Good Fair Fair
Shopping,hospitality, recreation,
services, employment and
arts and culture.
Good Fair Fair
Parcel Acquisition / Joint
Dev Opportunity Fair Poor Good
Parcel Availability Existing
Development Plans
Existing
Development Plans N/A
Parcel Cost $$$ $$ $$$
Highest and Best Use No Yes Yes
Joint Development Opportunity Yes N/A N/A
Potential Infrastructure Costs High Fair Fair
Trackwork, geometry constraints High Low Low
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Site Prominence C1 C2 C3
Socioeconomic
Impact
(Continued)
Bridge Abutments / RR ROW High Low Low
Utilities N/A N/A N/A
Controlled intersections 2 1 1
Land Use Compatibility C1 C2 C3
Land Use and Planning
Site Adjacencies Good Good Good
Town Center Neighborhoods Good Fair Fair
Employment District Good Good Good
Public Facility / Institutional District Good Good Good CSUSB Interface Fair Good Good
Environmental Consequences C1 C2 C3
Environmental Impacts
Good Good Good
Air Quality (Sand Mitigation) Good Fair Fair
Storm Water Management Good Good Good
Noise Good Good Fair
Biological resources Good Good Good
6.5. COST ESTIMATE
Construction of a rail station suitable for the estimated level of traffic and the resort gateway architecture that is needed to provide the visitor experience expected of the Coachella Valley is a significant investment for a local community. The City of Palm Desert plans to partner with state and federal agencies as well as other local agencies and private-sector partners to share the cost of station development, operations, and maintenance so local taxpayers aren’t bearing the full burden of this important part of the regional transportation infrastructure. Section 7 describes some of the funding opportunities that the City is exploring to share station costs.
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The cost estimates presented here are Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) or planning level costs with an accuracy range of -25% to +80%. This estimate uses ballpark costing based on professional opinion using limited available conceptual information and the costs to construct similar stations elsewhere in California. Actual construction costs may vary significantly from this estimate depending upon the timing of construction, volatility of material costs, design elements that are chosen as part of the architectural process, etc.
The ultimate station concept can be built in phases which will allow the cost to be spread over a longer period of time with some station elements being needed as soon as train service starts, while others will be needed later as station ridership and multimodal connections increase. For example, the parking structure is one of the most expensive parts of the station construction and likely won’t be needed until rail ridership reaches a certain threshold or other shared uses create enough demand that a surface lot can no longer provide the needed capacity.
The new Multimodal Transit HUB on a 10-acre site include:
◢ Site access and circulation, utilities, and station buildings ◢ Two train platforms including a pedestrian overcrossing spanning UPRR ROW with stairs and elevators
◢ Sitework including passenger plazas, dedicated bus loop, lighting, and landscape
◢ Project also includes TOD site opportunities
Total construction costs for the ultimate station design are expected to be around $190 million in 2023 dollars. This includes $13.5 million to build the internal roads and landscaping, $63 million for the ultimate parking structure (assumed 3-levels), $32 million for the platform, access bridge, and passenger plaza, and $13 million for station buildings and signage. An additional $40 million will be needed for design, engineering, and contracting services, and $30 million for contingency costs to account for unexpected challenges or delays.
The cost estimate uses the following assumptions:
1. Cost estimate based on year of construction of 2026
2. Construction management and construction administration costs are not included
3. Agency review fees and permit fees are not included.
4. Railroad and track work costs by others
5. Phased construction, multiple contractor, or mobilization costs are not included.
In addition to station development, Gerald Ford Drive is currently incomplete and will need to be widened to accommodate 2 lanes in each direction with appropriate turning and intersection control. Similarly, the City will seek partnerships with public and private entities to assist with construction costs. The roadway improvements are expected to cost approximately $41M, including a roundabout at the station entrance.
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7. POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES
This section identifies funding programs available for agencies in California from Federal, State, and regional sources and how they can be implemented for transportation infrastructure. Competitive funding resources are available to assist in the development and implementation of rail infrastructure in the City of Palm Desert. The following is a high-level introduction into some of the main funding programs and grants the City of Palm Desert can apply.
7.1. GRANT FUNDING SOURCES
Infrastructure and Jobs Act
The Infrastructure and Jobs Act is a federal investment for transportation and infrastructure. The investment allocates funds for intermodal transportation system to enhance the nation’s rail network. This investment is to rebuild the nation’s water, road, transit, and broadband systems, grow our economy, and create good-paying jobs. Funding opportunities for infrastructure include:
◢ Roads, bridges,
and major projects
◢ Passenger and freight rail
◢ Highway and
pedestrian safety
◢ Public transit
◢ Broadband
◢ Ports and waterways
◢ Airports
◢ Water infrastructure
◢ Power and grid
reliability and resiliency
◢ Resiliency, including funding for
coastal resiliency, ecosystem
restoration, and weatherization
◢ Clean school buses and ferries
◢ Electric vehicle charging
◢ Addressing legacy pollution
by cleaning up Brownfield and
Superfund sites and reclaiming
abandoned mines
◢ Western water infrastructure
The Infrastructure and Jobs Act offers opportunities for local governments and communities to secure competitive federal grants and improve infrastructure. Additional information regarding this program at the federal level can be found online at: https://www.phmsa.dot. gov/legislative-mandates/bipartisan-infrastructure-law-bilinfrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-iija California’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) Grants from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund to fund transformative capital improvements that will modernize California’s intercity, commuter, and urban rail; bus; and ferry transit systems to significantly reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, vehicle miles traveled, and congestion.
Federal Railroad Administration’s Corridor Identification and Development Program
A comprehensive intercity passenger rail planning and development program that will help guide intercity passenger rail development throughout the country and create a pipeline of intercity passenger rail projects ready for implementation.
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Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements This program funds a wide range of projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail to enhance multimodal connections. This program invests in railroad infrastructure projects that improve safety, support economic growth, develop jobs, increase capacity and supply chain resilience, apply innovative technology, climate change, and equity.
Mega Grant for Grade Separations
This program supports large, complex projects that are difficult to fund by other means and likely to generate national or regional economic, mobility, or safety benefits.
7.2. VALUE CAPTURE AND OTHER
FINANCING MECHANISMS
Transportation infrastructure has historically proven to be a catalyst for economic development in the immediate environs of station areas, as well as further throughout the local communities. This circumstance presents the City with an opportunity to utilize available “value capture” funding and financing tools to capture the value of that future economic development and create funding for those infrastructure costs, including initial capital expenditures and maintenance costs, as well as potential funding for related community benefits and amenities.
A funding and financing strategy that includes financing districts, monetization of public agency owned assets (e.g., new parking facilities in the station area), grants, and other complementary sources may be well-suited to capture value from new development to fund the targeted infrastructure, as well as related transit-oriented first-/lastmile infrastructure improvements, and even affordable housing in the station area.
Consulting team member Kosmont Companies has prepared a Value Capture Feasibility Analysis that estimates approximately $22 million to $94 million in present-value funding capacity from a financing district such as an Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD), not including potential complementary funding available from monetization of public assets and grants. The financing district would represent the sustainable, ongoing revenue stream that could directly support initial infrastructure capital expenditures, as well as maintenance of the infrastructure.
Part of the overall financing strategy would then be to leverage the capacity of financing districts to increase scoring and priority for other complementary funding, such as state transportation, transitoriented development, housing, climate resilience grants, and federal transportation and economic development grants, on an opportunistic basis. While the financing district would make the City more competitive for such grants, the grants would also in turn improve the financial viability of the financing district, solving initial cash flow needs while the funding capacity of the financing district builds up.
Analysis considered a range of financing district boundary scenarios (i.e., smaller boundaries focused on the immediate environs of the station area versus larger boundaries encapsulating opportunity sites farther from the station), district durations (i.e., 30 years, 45 years), and very importantly, taxing entity partnership scenarios. While a City-only Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
48
financing district strategy can achieve favorable “return on investment” for the City (e.g., evaluated to be $0.5 to $3.1 million in annual net fiscal revenues), a broader partnership including the County of Riverside, for example, would further improve financial feasibility and funding capacity.
Subject to confirmation of other components of rail station feasibility and eventual station site selection, implementation of such a financing strategy would require a series of public meetings and hearings for approval, pursuant to state law.
7.3. FUNDING PARTNERS
Due to the significant local and regional benefits of transportation infrastructure, as well as the significant cost associated with such improvements, the funding plan for these projects typically involves myriad partners from the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Based on the consulting team’s similar experience in other communities across the state, county, and internationally, the coalition of funding partners could include, but not be limited to, the following types of organizations:
Local Public Agencies
◢ Local city (City of Palm Desert)
◢ Local county (County of Riverside)
◢ Local transportation authority(ies) (e.g., Riverside County Transportation Commission, SunLine Transit Agency)
◢ Local association of governments (e.g., Coachella Valley Association of Governments)
Local Private Sector and Non-Profit Partners
◢ Local landowners and real estate developers
◢ Local businesses and visitor destinations (e.g., Acrisure Arena, local hotels, etc.)
◢ Affordable housing developers and related partners (e.g., Lift to Rise) ◢ Potential private sector infrastructure developers
◢ Local educational institutions (e.g., California State University San Bernardino, University of California Riverside, College of the Desert, California Indian Nations College)
◢ Local medical institutions (e.g., Kaiser Permanente)
◢ Philanthropic individuals and organizations
Potential State Grant / Loan Sources
◢ State of California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD)
◢ California Department of Transportation (CalTrans)
◢ Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR)
◢ Strategic Growth Council (SGC)
◢ California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) Potential Federal Grant Sources
◢ U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)
◢ U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA)
◢ U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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The form of funding partnership typically varies highly by partner and circumstance, but could include frameworks
such as participation in local financing districts (EIFDs, Community Facilities Districts, Tourism Business
Improvement Districts), one-time monetary contributions, ongoing allocations of recurring revenues (e.g., sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes, fees), contributions of land, lowcost and/or conduit financing, loan guarantees, support in applications and related pursuit of third-party funding (e.g., grant writing, letters of support), and other means.
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Palm Desert Rail Feasibility Study
8. CONCLUSION AND NEXT STEPS
The existing conditions and public opinion support the addition of a rail station in Palm Desert. As this study progresses into future planning, design, and implementation phases, stakeholder engagement will remain a critical component of the process. Key stakeholders include the City of Palm Desert, CSU San Bernardino, Acrisure Arena, Local Homeowners Associations, SunLine Transit, Greyhound, Amtrak, Metrolink, Union Pacific, and residents of Palm Desert. Additional key stakeholders may be consulted as this project progresses. Further feasibility analysis will be conducted to finalize a location and layout of the station. This may be supported through accompanying projects to improve roads, transit service, and parking at or near the station. In addition, incentives to attract transit-oriented development should be considered to create a greater number of destinations in proximity to the rail station.
All funding avenues for the station, and by extension for transit operators, should be considered and scrutinized. This includes, but is not limited to, the local and regional tax base, grants, and value capture. Preliminary engineering and final design plans will also need to be prepared and obtain environmental clearance. Negotiations will also need to be conducted with Union Pacific for construction within the right-of-way, and an operating agreement will need to be developed with rail service providers such as Metrolink and Amtrak.
A rail station in Palm Desert will create significant benefits to the City and Coachella Valley region by reducing overall VMT and air pollution, providing an alternative long-distance travel option for non-drivers, and creating opportunities for transit-oriented development and walkable communities. The station will also benefit visitors to Palm Desert and the region through a potential direct connection to the Acrisure Arena, and by providing better access to Palm Desert’s universities, local events, and festivals. While this study represents the collective vision for rail service in the City of Palm Desert, further study and design will refine the proposed improvements in this document. Subsequent phases will ensure the successful implementation of a rail station with regular passenger service to Palm Desert.
APPENDIX A: STATION RIDERSHIP DENSITY
METHODOLOGY AND RESULTS
Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study – Final Report | Appendix A Page A‐1
Appendix A: Station Ridership Density Methodology and Results Introduction:
An analysis was conducted to determine the ridership potential along the existing Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) corridor in the central Coachella Valley. This analysis determined which sections of the rail corridor could potentially serve the most residents, workers and visitors based on nearby land uses.
Methodology:
The methodology evaluated the number of residents, jobs, and special uses or activities with a half‐mile and three‐mile radius of proposed station locations along the corridor. Data was sourced from the US Census, Longitudinal Employer‐Household Dynamics data, and existing land uses and was examined at the census block level. In order to determine the service potential of each of these census blocks, the following data were obtained for inclusion in the analysis. Population of Census Blocks (from 2020 US Decennial Census) Location of Employment and Number Employed (from 2021 Longitudinal Employer‐Household Dynamics (LEHD) data)
Additional “Special Activities” such as Large Gathering Sites (includes Casinos, Theatres/Concert Venues, and Universities/Trade Schools)
The information regarding any “special activities” that occur in each block was added based on capacity information obtained from local universities, casinos, and concert venues. A heatmap of the total residents, jobs, and special activities was then generated using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method in GIS (See Figure 1).
The analysis was conducted at half mile intervals along the rail line resulting in 15 total sites. The GIS system counted the number of residents, jobs, and special activity seats that were within 3 miles of each site. It then counted the same information within a half mile of each site. Residents, jobs, and special uses within ½ a mile of the site were weighted at double those that are further out to reflect the increase in potential attraction to the station site.
The points representing the station locations were then ranked from 1‐15, with 1 being the segment with the highest number of weighted residents, jobs, and visitors, and 15 being the one with the least, with color coding assigned to each (see Figure 1).
Results:
The potential station sites ranged from 38,222 weighted residents, jobs, and visitors up to 77,086 weighted residents, jobs, and visitors. The locally preferred site location selected as part of the Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study is located at the number 1‐ranked site.
Palm Desert Rail Station Feasibility Study – Final Report | Appendix A Page A‐2
Figure 1: Ridership Potential from Pedestrians and Transit Users Along Rail Corridor in Palm Desert, California
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Gary Shaffer, Director of Library Services Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk
REQUEST: INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.74 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE
TO ESTABLISH A PALM DESERT LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND
LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMITTEE AND MAKING A FINDING OF
EXEMPTION UNDER CEQA
RECOMMENDATION:
Introduce an Ordinance entitled “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.74 OF THE PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH A LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND MAKING A FINDING OF EXEMPTION UNDER CEQA.” BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On October 12, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2023-047 withdrawing from the Riverside County Library System with the intent to establish an independent municipal library.
On February 15, 2024, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1408 adding Chapter 2.74 to the Palm Desert Municipal Code establishing the Palm Desert Public Library.
On March 28, 2024, the City Council conducted a Study Session regarding the formation of a Library Board of Trustees and Library Advisory Committee. The City Council provided initial feedback in support of the City Council, as the Library Board of Trustees, serving as the legislative body responsible for the Library and the creation of a new Library Advisory Committee. The City Council agreed to refer further discussion regarding the responsibilities of the Library Advisory Committee to the City Council Ad Hoc Committee on Boards and Commissions. The Ad Hoc Committee has reviewed the proposed ordinance and recommends approval.
Ordinance Highlights
Library Board of Trustees (Board)
o The City Council shall serve as the Library Board of Trustees with terms running concurrent with their respective terms of office on the City Council. o The Board shall be responsible for fiduciary and administrative oversight and establishing policies and long-term plans for the library. o Board meetings shall be held concurrently with regular City Council meetings, similar to the Housing Authority.
City of Palm Desert
Library Board of Trustees and Advisory Committee Ordinance
Library Advisory Committee (Committee)
o The Committee shall be composed of five community members with up to two alternate members (non-voting members).
o The Committee may hold monthly regular meetings.
o The Committee shall be responsible for: 1) providing input on the programming and space planning; 2) monitoring performance indicators, activities, and outcomes; 3) assisting staff in connecting with community groups and organizations; and 4) other functions as the Board may request.
In addition, the Committee shall be subject to Chapter 2.34, Boards, Commissions, Committees, and Task Forces – General Provisions. This chapter addresses the length of terms (4 years), the staggering of initial terms, roles and responsibilities, absences, and resignations.
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s office.
Environment Review:
This action is exempt under CEQA.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is minimal financial impact associated with the recruitment and interviewing of applicants for the Library Advisory Committee. The City Clerk budget has sufficient funding for these activities.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Draft Ordinance
ORDINANCE NO. ____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.74 OF THE PALM
DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE TO ESTABLISH A PALM DESERT LIBRARY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
City Attorney’s Summary
The purpose of this ordinance is to amend the Palm Desert Municipal Code to establish the City Council as the Library Board of Trustees and establishing a Library Advisory Committee.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 2023-047, as of July 1, 2024, or upon transfer of property, whichever is later, that City of Palm Desert will withdraw from the Riverside County Library System (RCLS) and shall assume the responsibility for the provision of library services within the City’s jurisdiction; and WHEREAS, the City is authorized to establish a municipal public library pursuant to Section 101 of the Palm Desert Charter and Article XI, Section 5 of the California Constitution; and
WHEREAS, for the efficient operation and management of the Palm Desert Public Library, it is the desire of the City Council to serve as the Library Board of Trustees and establish a Library Advisory Committee.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The recitals above are each incorporated by reference and adopted as findings of the City Council.
SECTION 2. Amendment to Municipal Code. The Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 2.74, Public Library, is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 2.74.060 Library Board of Trustees
A. Established.
The Library Board of Trustees (“Board”) is hereby established and shall serve as the legislative body responsible for the fiduciary and administrative oversight and establishing policies and long-term plans for the library. The faithful implementation of the policies adopted by the board shall be the responsibility of the city employees assigned to the library.
Ordinance No. _____ Page 2
B. Members.
The Board shall consist of the five members of the City Council. The Board Members shall individually hold office for a term which coincides with their respective terms of office on the City Council.
C. Meetings.
Regular meetings of the Board shall be held concurrently with the regular City Council meeting. Special meetings may be held from time to time as necessary and in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act.
Section 2.74.070 Library Advisory Committee
A. Established.
A Library Advisory Committee (“Committee”) is hereby established for the City of Palm Desert. The provisions set forth in Chapter 2.34 of this code shall apply to this Committee, except as otherwise required by state law. If there is any conflict between this chapter and Chapter 2.34 of this code, the provisions of this chapter shall control.
B. Purpose.
The Committee shall advise and provide input to the Board relative to programming and space planning; monitor performance indicators, activities, and outcomes; assist staff in connecting with community groups and organizations; and such other functions as the Library Board of Trustees may request.
C. Members.
The Committee shall be comprised of five community members and up to two alternate members.
D. Meetings.
The Committee may hold monthly regular meetings at such date, time, and place as set by Committee resolution or minute order.
Ordinance No. _____ Page 3
E. Responsibilities.
The Committee has the following responsibilities:
1. Provide input on programming and space planning;
2. Monitor performance indicators, activities, and outcomes;
3. Assist staff in connecting with community groups and organizations; and
4. Other functions as the Library Board of Trustees may request.
Section 3. Severability. If any section, subsection, clause or phrase of this Ordinance or any part thereof is for any reason held to be invalid, unconstitutional, or unenforceable by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of the Ordinance. The City Council declares that it would have passed each section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase would be declared invalid, unconstitutional or unenforceable.
SECTION 4. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, California, is hereby directed to publish a summary of this Ordinance in the Desert Sun, a newspaper of general circulation, published and circulated in the City of Palm Desert, California, and shall be in full force and effective thirty (30) days after its adoption.
ADOPTED ON ___________________, 2024.
KARINA QUINTANILLA
MAYOR
ATTEST:
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
Ordinance No. _____ Page 4
I, Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, California, do hereby certify that Ordinance No. ____ is a full, true, and correct copy, and was introduced at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City Council on _________, 2024, and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on __________, 2024, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
RECUSED:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Palm Desert, California, on ____________________.
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Randy Chavez, Deputy Director of Public Works REQUEST: APPROVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE UNIVERSITY DOG PARK
PARKING AND THE EL PASEO MID-BLOCK CROSSWALKS
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Approve additional street parking and a standard crosswalk with a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) system on University Park Drive.
2. Approve the replacement of three RRFB systems at mid-block crosswalks on El Paseo and Larkspur Lane.
3. Approve two new mid-block crosswalks with RRFB systems on El Paseo.
4. Approve asphalt finish with decorative art on all five mid-block crosswalks.
5. Authorize the removal of multi-colored decorative crosswalk painting.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On March 14, 2024, the City Council held a study session to discuss two items, including parking at University Dog Park and existing and proposed two additional mid-block crosswalks on El Paseo. In addition, staff have since held an Active Transportation Program (ATP) Subcommittee meeting to present additional information and seek clarification and direction. The following recommendations are a direct outcome of the discussions held during these sessions.
University Dog Park
At University Dog Park, there are 13 parking spaces, with 2 designated for ADA use. This limited parking availability poses challenges for residents and visitors, especially during peak times. At the study session, three alternatives were presented to the City Council to address parking concerns. Those alternatives are outlined in the table below.
University Dog Park: Parking Alternatives
Location Alternatives New Spaces Cost Per Space Total
Alternative 1:
Parking Pocket
Build new parking pocket to accommodate
additional parking spaces
8 $88,800 $710,000
Alternative 2:
Parking Area
Build new parking area above park to
accommodate parking spaces
34 $62,900 $2,140,000
Alternative 3A:
Street Parking
(Raised Crosswalk)
Remove existing median & bike lane, construct
crosswalk with RRFB, & divert bike lane into
sidewalk to accommodate parking spaces on
both sides of street
42 $16,500 $694,000
Alternative 3B:
Street Parking
(Striped
Crosswalk)
Remove existing median & bike lane,
construct crosswalk with RRFB, & divert
bike lane into sidewalk to accommodate
parking spaces on both sides of street
42 $10,500 $440,000
City of Palm Desert
(University Dog Park and El Paseo Mid-block Crosswalks)
Staff recommends Alternative 3B: Street Parking (Striped Crosswalk), given a raised crosswalk is not recommended at this location due to the speed limit of 35 MPH on University Park Drive.
El Paseo Mid-block Crosswalks – Existing Locations
There are currently three raised mid-block crosswalks locations, with two situated along El Paseo and one on Larkspur Lane. At the study session, the City Council discussed the replacement of three RRFB systems to rectify equipment issues. In addition, to address ADA issues, the City Council discussed constructing a raised sidewalk bulb-out along the mid-block crosswalk at Larkspur Lane. The estimated costs are detailed in the table provided below.
Existing Mid-block Crosswalks
Location Scope Cost
El Paseo (San Pablo Avenue to Larkspur Lane) Retain existing raised crosswalk Replace RRFB system
Asphalt with decorative finish
$164,000
El Paseo (Larkspur Lane to San Luis Rey Avenue) Retain existing raised crosswalk Replace RRFB system
Asphalt with decorative finish
$164,000
Larkspur Lane (El Paseo & Shadow Mountain Drive) Construct a raised sidewalk bulbout on east side & west sides Replace RRFB system
Asphalt with decorative finish
$274,000
Total: $602,000
Staff recommends replacing the RRFB systems at the three locations above, along with constructing the raised sidewalk bulb-outs along Larkspur Lane.
El Paseo Mid-block Crosswalks – New Locations
Staff was previously directed to study the potential for new raised mid-block crosswalks along El Paseo. The proposed locations along El Paseo include 1) between Ocotillo Drive and Sage Lane, 2) between Sage Lane and Lupine Lane, and 3) between Lupine Lane and San Pablo Avenue. The estimated costs are detailed in the table below.
New Mid-block Crosswalks
Location Scope Cost
El Paseo (Ocotillo Drive to Sage Lane) Construct raised crosswalk w/RRFBs $504,000 El Paseo (Sage Lane to Lupine Lane) Construct raised crosswalk w/RRFBs $504,000 El Paseo (Lupine Lane to San Pablo Avenue) * Construct raised crosswalk w/RRFBs N/A Total: $1,008,000
* Not recommended
Staff recommends adding the raised crosswalks with the RRFB systems at the two new locations above, along with constructing the raised sidewalk bulb-outs along Larkspur Lane. The crosswalk between Lupine Lane and San Pablo is not recommended due to the short distance between street blocks and drive approaches.
City of Palm Desert
(University Dog Park and El Paseo Mid-block Crosswalks)
Mid-block Crosswalk Finishes – Asphalt with Decorative Art Following the study session, staff further consulted engineering staff to discuss the finished materials for the raised mid-block crosswalks. Upon further examination, staff adjusted its recommendation to feature an asphalt finish with decorative art at each location. This revised recommendation was influenced by maintenance considerations, particularly regarding concerns arising where concrete meets asphalt. Staff communicated these concerns and the revised recommendation with the ATP Subcommittee, who concurred with the approach.
The cost for asphalt with decorative art is approximately $34,000 per location and included in the costs above. Note the decorative design options have not yet to be determined and will be presented at a later date. Finally, staff anticipates the mid-block crosswalks improvements will be completed in summer 2024, corresponding with the re-paving of El Paseo.
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s Office.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The total cost of the recommended action items is estimated at $3,000,000. Staff will request approval for construction of both projects at a future meeting(s). Funding for the El Paseo MidBlock Crossings Project was included in the approved Capital Improvement Project (CIP) List for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24 and FY 2024-25. The University Dog Park Parking Project has been included in the proposed CIP List for FY 2024-25.
Project Funding Source Fiscal Year Description Project Budget El Paseo Mid-Block
Crossings
4514679-5000102
2023-24
Construction $500,000
2134311-4332000 Construction $750,000
2134311-4332000 2024-25 Construction $1,000,000
University Dog Park On-Site
Parking Improvements 4004618-4400100 2024-25 Construction $750,000 Total $3,000,000
The remaining funds for both projects will be available for future project enhancements including, but not limited to, replacement equipment, maintenance, and other measures aimed at improving safety and accessibility.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Presentation
University Dog Park:
Parking Study
April 25, 2024
Why Study Parking?
Initially developed as a neighborhood park
Residential growth in North Sphere has
increased demand on park space & parking
5,800 additional homes in development
Resident requests to increase parking
13 parking spaces
On-street parking prohibited
Explore options to increase parking
Recommendation:
Street Parking
Remove raised median on University Drive
(Baylor Way & College Drive)
Remove Class II bike lane & divert bicycle
traffic to sidewalk
Realign travel lanes to accommodate left
& right turns (College Drive)
Provides 42 additional parking spaces
Construct mid-block crosswalk with
Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB)
Cost: $440,000 (striped) – $10,500 per space
El Paseo
Raised
Mid-block
Crossings
Why Study Raised Crosswalks?
Why study raised crosswalks on El Paseo?
El Paseo merchants requested the City to explore additional mid-block raised crosswalks on El Paseo
What locations are apart of the study?
3 existing locations
3 new locations
Recommendations:
Existing Raised Crosswalks Keep 3 existing raised crosswalks El Paseo (San Pablo & Larkspur) El Paseo (Larkspur & San Luis Rey) Larkspur Lane (El Paseo & Shadow Mountain) Replace RRFB units (Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons)
Asphalt with decorative finish Construct a sidewalk bulb-out (Larkspur Lane)
Total Cost: $602,000
Recommendations:
New Raised Crosswalks
Install 2 new raised crosswalks
El Paseo (Ocotillo Drive to Sage Lane)
El Paseo (Larkspur & San Luis Rey)
Includes RRFB units
(Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons)
Asphalt with decorative finish
Total Cost: $1,008,000
Questions
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 25, 2024
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Principal Planner
REQUEST: CONSIDER MAKING A FINDING OF EXEMPTION UNDER CEQA AND APPROVE A STREET VACATION OF AN 8,582 SQUARE FOOT
PORTION OF SHADOW LAKE DRIVE IN FAVOR OF A PROPERTY AT
73745 SHADOW LAKE DRIVE
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, MAKING A FINDING OF EXEMPTION UNDER CEQA AND APPROVING A PROPOSED STREET VACATION OF AN 8,582 SQUARE FOOT PORTION OF SHADOW LAKE DRIVE IN FAVOR OF A PROPERTY AT 73745 SHADOW LAKE DRIVE IS CONSISTENT WITH THE CITY OF PALM DESERT GENERAL PLAN (APNS: 627-342- 001).”
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
Gordon German (Owner/Applicant) has filed Street Vacation 23-0008 (Vacation) to vacate an 8,852 square foot (sf) portion of Shadow Lake Drive adjacent to an existing single family residential property at 73745 Shadow Lake Drive. Chapter 3, Part 3, Division 9 of the Streets and Highway Code allows for Street Vacation proceedings to be initiated by the City Council.
Legal Review:
This report has been reviewed by the City Attorney’s office.
Planning Commission Recommendation:
California Government Code Section 65402 requires that prior to streets being vacated by the City Council, the Planning Commission make a finding that the proposed vacation is consistent with the City’s General Plan. On March 19, 2024, the City of Palm Desert Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 2860 finding this request to be consistent with the Palm Desert General Plan.
Project Description:
The proposed Vacation area off Shadow Lake Drive was dedicated for public use as part of Lot F in the Shadow Mountain Park Estates, Unit No. 1, as shown on a map recorded in Book 28 at Pages 18 and 19 of maps in the office of the County Recorder for Riverside County, California.
The Vacation area has remained vacant and unimproved since recordation, with no physical improvements existing or planned. The area has an existing drainage easement reserved to the City of Palm Desert and a sanitation easement reserved to the Coachella Valley Water District.
The Vacation proposes the 8,582 sf to be vacated in favor of 73745 Shadow Lake Drive, which has an existing single family residential home. If approved, the Owner would be able to construct
City of Palm Desert
ST23-0008 SHADOW LAKE DR VACATION________________________________________
structures further west into the existing vacant and unimproved area. The Owner’s property line would be further west, allowing for structures to be constructed further west and still meet side yard setback requirements. The Owner is seeking this approval to build accessory structures and/or add to the primary dwelling in the future, in addition to improving the area, which would otherwise be left vacant and unimproved. The Vacation would reserve a 3,316 sf drainage easement to the City of Palm Desert and a 20’ wide CVWD Sanitation easement throughout the site. All new construction for 73745 Shadow Lake Drive would be subject to the PDMC development standards.
As shown below in Table 1, the existing property is designated as residential within the City’s General Plan and surrounded by residential designations. The vacation would allow for expansion of existing residential uses adjacent to other residential properties.
Table 1 – General Plan Land Use Designation
Property Site Existing Land use General Plan Land Use Designation 73745 Shadow Lake Drive Existing Residential Conventional Suburban Neighborhood North Existing Residential Small Town Neighborhood
South Existing Residential Golf Course & Resort Neighborhood East Existing Residential Conventional Suburban Neighborhood West Existing Residential Golf Course & Resort Neighborhood The proposed Vacation is consistent with the City of Palm Desert General Plan goals and policies relating to land use and mobility. The General Plan Land Use Element promotes having complete neighborhoods, conventional neighborhood design, appropriate roadway scale, and encouragement of infill neighborhoods. The General Plan Mobility Element envisions an interconnected multi-modal transportation system that promotes livable streets and ongoing monitoring of the transportation facilities. The proposed Vacation area is not needed for street purposes, is unnecessary for present or prospective public use, and can be conveyed to the adjacent property owner without compromising the operational capacity of the roadway.
Environment Review:
City staff has reviewed the project in accordance with CEQA and recommends that the Project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Class 1, Section 15301 – Existing Facilities.
This Section pertains to existing highways and streets and this project can be found that the vacation of the subject right of way will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. Therefore, no further environmental review is required under CEQA and a notice of exemption may be adopted.
Public Review
Pursuant to Sections 8322 and 8323 of the California Streets and Highways Code, due notice of the public hearing was given including: A public hearing notice for this item was published in the Desert Sun on April 12, 2024, distributed to property owners within 300 feet of the project site, and three (3) notices were posted along the line of the street to be vacated. No comments have been received from the public as of the date of publishing this report.
City of Palm Desert
ST23-0008 SHADOW LAKE DR VACATION________________________________________
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft Resolution
2. Street Vacation Plans (Exhibit A and B of the resolution)
3. Public Hearing Notice
RESOLUTION NO. ____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT,
CALIFORNIA, MAKING A FINDING OF EXEMPTION UNDER CEQA AND APPROVING A PROPOSED STREET VACATION OF AN 8,582 SQUARE
FOOT PORTION OF SHADOW LAKE DRIVE IN FAVOR OF A PROPERTY AT 73745 SHADOW LAKE DRIVE IS CONSISTENT WITH THE CITY OF PALM DESERT GENERAL PLAN (APNS: 627-342-001)
CASE NOS. ST23-0008
WHEREAS, Gordon German, the owner of the property located at 73745 Shadow Lake Drive, did submit a request for a street vacation to vacate an 8,582 square foot portion of Shadow Lake Drive adjacent to 73745 Shadow Lake Drive; and WHEREAS, the Project site (73745 Shadow Lake Drive) has a land use designation of Conventional Suburban Neighborhood in the General Plan adopted on November 10, 2016; and
WHEREAS, under Section 21067 of the Public Resources Code, Section 15367 of the State California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.) and the City of Palm Desert’s (“City’s”) Local CEQA Guidelines, the City is the lead agency for the Project; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the requirements of the CEQA, the State Guidelines for Implementation of CEQA (State CEQA Guidelines) and the City of Palm Desert CEQA Implementation Requirements, the City of Palm Desert Development Services Department has determined that the Project will not have a significant impact on the environment and that the Project is exempt under Section 15301(c) – Class 1, Existing Facilities; therefore, no further environmental review is necessary; and
WHEREAS, street vacation proceedings may be initiated by the City Council or may act on a petition or request of an interested person, pursuant to Chapter 3, Part 3, Division 9 of the Streets and Highways Code; and
WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65402 requires that prior to the streets being vacated by the City Council, the Planning Commission shall make a finding that the proposed street vacation is consistent with the City’s General Plan; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the 19th day of March 2024, consider the request for street vacation identified above and adopt Planning Commission Resolution 2860 finding the request to be consistent with the Palm Desert General Plan ; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 8322 and 8323 of the California Streets and Highways Code, due notice of the public hearing was given; WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have occurred; and
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION
2 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council hereby finds that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein as substantive findings of this Resolution.
SECTION 2. Findings for Street Vacation. Under Chapter 3, Part 3, Division 9 of the California Streets and Highways Code, the City Council hereby finds:
1. The proposed street vacation conforms with the City of Palm Desert General Plan.
The proposed street vacation is consistent with the City of Palm Desert General Plan, including goals and policies relating to land use and mobility.
2. The proposed street vacation will have no environmental effects that adversely impact the public safety or welfare.
3. The portion of right of way being vacated is unnecessary for present or prospective public use.
SECTION 3. Project Approval. The City Council finds that the proposed street vacation of a 8,852 square foot portion of Shadow Lake Drive adjacent to 73745 Shadow Lake Drive legally described in Exhibit A and depicted in Exhibit B, attached hereto is consistent with the General Plan.
ADOPTED ON ________________, 20__.
Karina Quintanilla
MAYOR
ATTEST:
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION
3 I, Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, hereby certify that Resolution No. 2022-__ is a full, true, and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert on _______________________, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
RECUSED:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Palm Desert, California, on ______________, 2024.
ANTHONY J. MEJIA
CITY CLERK
CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION
4
APPROVEDTY
02/20/2024
APPROVEDTY
02/20/2024
APPROVEDTY
02/20/2024
C I T Y O F P A L M
D E S E R T 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578
TEL: 760-346-0611
[email protected]
CITY OF PALM DESERT
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
CASE NO. ST23-0008
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, TO CONSIDER ADOPTING A
NOTICE OF EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) AND APPROVE A STREET VACATION OF AN 8,582 SQUARE FOOT PORTION OF SHADOW LAKE DRIVE IN FAVOR OF A PROPERTY AT 73745 SHADOW LAKE DRIVE The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project and pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), has determined the project to be exempt from further environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, Existing Facilities.
PROJECT LOCATION: 73745 Shadow Lake Drive in the City of Palm Desert, located in Riverside County. Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 627-342-001
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The consideration is a request to vacate an 8,582 square foot portion of public right of way in favor of 73745 Shadow Lake Drive, which has an existing single family residential home.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: On March 19, 2024, the City of Palm Desert Planning Commission adopted Resolution No. 2860 finding this request to be consistent with the Palm Desert General Plan.
PUBLIC HEARING: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, April 25, 2024. The City Council meeting begins at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California.
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted as a hybrid meeting, allowing public access via teleconference or in person. Options for remote participation will be listed on the Posted Agenda for the meeting at: https://www.palmdesert.gov/connect/city-council REVIEW OF PROJECT INFORMATION: Information concerning the proposed Street Vacation is available for review in the Office of the City Clerk at 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California during regular business hours and on the City’s website at City Council Meetings | City of Palm Desert
COMMENT ON THIS APPLICATION: Response to this notice may be made as follows:
Written comments may be submitted to the City Council by letter to the address below or email at [email protected]. Transmittal prior to the start of the meeting is required. Any correspondence received during or after the meeting will be distributed to the City Council as soon as practicable and retained for the official record.
Any challenge of the proposed project in court may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at, or prior, to the public hearing. (Government Code Section 65009[b][2]).
Si necesita ayuda con esta notificación, por favor llame a la Ciudad de Palm Desert y comuníquese con Gloria Sanchez (760) 346-0611 ext. 354
PUBLISH: THE DESERT SUN ANTHONY J. MEJIA, MMC, CITY CLERK APRIL 12, 2024 CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA