Traffic Alert – Indio Boulevard

Road Closure Alert on Westbound Indio Boulevard Between Clinton and Madison Streets

INDIO, Calif. (Feb. 22, 2022) –

As part of the on-going seismic retrofit of the Indio Boulevard Bridge over the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel, the City of Indio will close westbound Indio Boulevard between Clinton Street and Madison Street through March 2022. Eastbound Indio Boulevard will remain open.

The intersection of Clinton Street and Indio Boulevard will be on red flash. In addition, road signs will be placed indicating traffic speeds of 25 miles per hour should be observed. The road closure itself will begin Wednesday, Feb. 23.

  • Signal at Clinton Street and Indio Boulevard will be set to red flash
  • Plan for traffic delays on westbound Indio Boulevard beginning near Monroe Street
  • Plan for heavier traffic on Clinton Street between Indio Boulevard and Fred Waring Drive and Fred Waring Drive between Clinton Street and Jefferson Street

Drivers should take alternate routes when possible:

  • Start - Westbound Indio Boulevard to southbound Clinton Street
  • Continue - Southbound Clinton Street to westbound Fred Waring Drive
  • Continue - Westbound Fred Waring Drive to northbound Jefferson Street
  • End – Indio Boulevard

The City of Indio greatly appreciates your patience and cooperation during the bridge seismic retrofit process. Please direct any questions regarding traffic to City of Indio Public Works at (760) 391-4017.

North Indio Stormwater Flood Control Project Schedule Update

The CVWD construction contractor, Sukut Construction, has provided the following schedule for planned near-term work in our North Channel.

  • February 16
    • Cut an opening in our perimeter fence and install a gate with locks in order to create an access to the North Channel for construction equipment.
    • Begin installation of the temporary fence to surround the limits of the construction site.
  • February 17-18
    • Begin removing shrubs, trees, benches and concrete within the construction site.
  • February 22-25
    • Begin draining pond 1.
    • Capturing fish and turtles to be relocated to Lake 3, working side-by-side with a biologist.
  • February 24
    • Bring earthmoving equipment into the site and begin heavy excavation to accommodate construction of the concrete walls on either side of the pond that will protect the adjacent houses from future stormwater erosion. The location of the concrete walls is shown in the plan view below.

CERT Training – March 2022

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training
March 18, 19 & 20, 2022
Presented by by City of La Quinta

CERT is about readiness, people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency and disaster situations where citizens will be initially on their own and their actions can make a difference. Through training, citizens can manage utilities and put out small fires; treat the three killers by opening airways, controlling bleeding, and treating for shock; provide basic medical aid; search for and rescue victims safely; and organize themselves and spontaneous volunteers to be effective. CERT training is a commitment of 20 hours of training. There is no cost for the training. Only those who successfully complete the practical exercise with hands-on instruction in fire suppression, search and rescue, cribbing and medical will receive a certificate of completion.

For more information and to register visit:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/community-emergency-response-team-cert-training-march-18-19-20-2022-registration-229146151307

North Indio Regional Flood Control Project

As you may be aware, the North Indio Regional Flood Control Project has begun in surrounding areas and at the corner of Jefferson Street and Avenue 40. Please be advised that Sukut Construction will be on-site as early as next week to commence work in the North Channel Pond Area.

The work will include the installation of a fence to secure the construction site. The fence will be installed along the east side of the upper North Channel adjacent to the homes on Camino Montecito and across to our perimeter fence on Jefferson Street. The North Channel area will be closed to pedestrian traffic at the Sun City Blvd crossing for the duration of the construction. The first step in the construction will be to drain pond 1 and pond 2 to prepare the area for excavation and grading.

We thank you for your continued patience as we work alongside CVWD and Sukut Construction for a smooth project.

For your reference, please click on the link below for additional information.

https://www.cvwd.org/570/North-Indio-Regional-Flood-Control-Proje

Attachments:

📄 SCSH Construction and Lake Draining E_Blast_2022_02_11_FINAL.pdf

📄 SCSH Construction Zone Map.jpg

Southwest Arts Festival Seeks Volunteers

The Southwest Arts Festival is being held at the Empire Polo Grounds in Indio from January 27 – 30, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers to help with many different duties. There are three shifts per day, during the four day event.

To thank the volunteers, the chamber provides them with two tickets to the event, which they can use any of the four days. Volunteers also receive free parking, a shirt, a Southwest Arts Festival 2022 poster, snacks, and depending upon the shift worked, a light meal on the days they work.

Event attendance is about 2,500 per day, so there are lots of volunteer shifts available. To sign up as a volunteer, email info@gcvcc.org or call and ask for Michelle at (760) 347-0676. Volunteers should be 16 or older. All volunteers must sign a release of liability. Volunteers should be prepared to do a lot of walking!

CERT Training

Building Resilient Communities

CERT is about readiness, people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency and disaster situations where citizens will be initially on their own and their actions can make a difference. Through training, citizens can manage utilities and put out small fires; treat the three killers by opening airways, controlling bleeding, and treating for shock; provide basic medical aid; search for and rescue victims safely; and organize themselves and spontaneous volunteers to be effective.

CERT training is a commitment of 20 hours of training. There is no cost for the training. Only those who successfully complete the required 20 hours with hands-on instruction, will receive a certificate of completion.

This training is provided by: City of Indio, County of Riverside Emergency Management Department

WHERE:
45222 Towne Street
Indio, CA. 92201
Indio Emergency Operations Center

DATE:
February 4, 5, 6, 2022

TIME:
Fri. 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Sat. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sun. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Register here: https://conta.cc/3ezQuR6

Call for more information:
Office: 760-541-4459 or email
indiocert@indio.org

Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network: Sound the Alarm

https://www.cvdpn.org
https://www.facebook.com/CVDPN.org
In support of CVDPN’s Mission: Disaster Training. Education. Networking

CVDPN in partnership with the American Red Cross understands that many of us are very fortunate and may not need this valuable service. However, we may know people less fortunate that would benefit from it. Help CVDPN by “networking” this important and FREE opportunity. Thank you, Carla Sullivan-Dilley, CVDPN President.

Home fires claim seven lives every day, but together we can help change that.

The American Red Cross is offering free home fire safety information and smoke alarm installations in your community!

To register for an appointment, see link and phone number below. We will contact you when we have a team ready to install in your area. Our install teams have been vaccinated and will follow COVID-19 guidelines.

Join our national movement and pledge to keep your family safe against home fires.

Learn more or register online at
SoundTheAlarm.org/SoCal
or call 714-481-5334

CERT Training

BE CERTAIN IN A DISASTER

Be part of Indio's disaster response team by learning some basic techniques to positively contribute during an emergency! The County of Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMD) is holding a free Community Emergency Response Team CERT training Dec. 10 to 12 to prepare volunteers with basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and medical operations.

CERT training volunteers will be required to commit 20 hours of their time. Those who successfully complete the practical exercises in fire suppression, search and rescue, cribbing and medical operations will receive a certificate of completion from the County of Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMO).

The CERT training will be held at the East County Emergency Operation Center on 82695 Dr. Carreon Blvd in Indio:

  • Friday, Dec. 10, 2021from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm
  • Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021 from 8:00 amto 5:00 pm

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates community members about disaster preparedness and offers a consistent, nationwide approach to community training and organization that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations. allowing them to focus on more complex tasks. CERT members can also assist people in their neighborhoods or workplace during or after an event when professional responders are not immediately available.

To register, click on the link provided before Dec. 10, 2021: CERT Basic Training: East County Emergency Operation Center

For more information or ADA assistance contact the County of Riverside Emergency Management Department (EMO) at 951-955-4700, email at EMDTraining@rivco.org, or visit their website at www.rivcocert.org.

Interested in a future training? Email indiocert@indio.org or call (760)-541-4459.

Second CVWD Storm Channel Project Town Hall Video Now Available

For all updates related to this project, please visit www.scshca.com/cvwd

Remember Your Furry Friends This 4th of July

Meet WiFi! WiFi is the unofficial mascot of the Coachella Animal Network (CAN), and he is spreading the word about how dangerous illegal fireworks are to your family's four-legged friends. Some pups get so scared from the loud booming of illegal fireworks, they escape from their homes in terror. "Some public shelters even euthanize some of the animals already there to make room for many of the dogs that end up there because of the illegal fireworks on July 4th," said Kim Hardee, CAN's executive director.

Did you know that some of our military Veterans also suffer during 4th of July celebrations because they have flashbacks from combat when they hear fireworks? The City of Indio's Police and Fire Chiefs even took part in this video to remind residents to be respectful of others and encourage responsible use of fireworks.

Please be aware this Independence Holiday and only celebrate with safe and sane fireworks!

Indio Offers Four Cool Centers During Summer Heat

The Sun City Shadow Hills Emergency Preparedness Subcommittee is posting this for the benefit of our residents based on information from Riverside County.

Four cool centers are now located throughout Indio for those who need temporary relief from the heat.

Cool Centers are activated when temperatures reach 97 degrees, or are needed by their community, and are open to the public through October 15, 2021.

“That could mean the Cool Centers are active every day until the end of the summer here in the desert,” said Indio’s Emergency Services Manager, Dennis Day. “We were glad to be able to work with the county to add the Indio Public Library as another option here, with the added bonus of getting children involved in the library’s summer reading program.”

The four cool center locations in Indio are:

Coachella Valley Rescue Mission
84110 Manila St., Indio 92201
Mon-Sun 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
760-851-2160

Indio Senior Center
*Seniors only
45700 Aladdin St., Indio 92201
Mon-Fri 7:30 am – 4:30 pm
760-391-4170

Martha’s Village & Kitchen
83791 Date Ave., Indio 92201
Mon-Sun 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
760-347-4741

Indio Public Library
200 Civic Center Mall, Indio 92201
Mon 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tue-Thur & Sat 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
760-347-2383

If more time and relief is needed from the heat this summer, please visit any of the cool centers identified throughout Riverside County. Additional cooling center locations can be found at www.capriverside.org/cool-centers.

Upcoming CVWD Storm Channel Project Town Halls

Upcoming Town Halls

Montecito Clubhouse Ballroom
Thursday, July 8, 2021, at 10:00 am
Monday, July 12, 2021, at 5:00 pm


CVWD Storm Channel Project

Due to the continuous growth and development in recent years, of the Coachella Valley, CVWD will conduct an extensive project to enhance flood control. The project consists of a series of flood control improvements designed to meet the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 0.01 chance, or a 100-year flood event, thereby providing flood protection for developed and planned development areas. These projects are vital to CVWD’s ability to provide regional stormwater protection to the Coachella Valley.

EASEMENT AND EXCHANGE AGREEMENT Dated: August 25, 2004 by between the CVWD and Pulte Corp.

#12 Stormwater Drainage, G. Pages 10-11:

“In order to connect the channel to the regional stormwater facilities, it may be necessary to reconstruct or modify the inlet in the vicinity of Jefferson Street and Avenue 40. Pulte and /or the Association agree that the District and /or its contractors shall have the right to do such work.”

📄 Coachella Valley Regional Stormwater Project Updates

IID Conserve Alert Is In Effect

A Conserve Alert is in effect today through Saturday, June 19. By conserving energy we can take stress off the energy grid, maintain reliable energy delivery service and help avert rotating power outages. Please conserve energy during the hours of 4-9 pm

SHHS 2021 Graduation Ceremony

Please be advised that on Friday, May 28 2021, Shadow Hills High School will host a traditional graduation ceremony. The ceremony will begin at 5:30 pm and will run until 10:30 pm The ceremony will also include a live fireworks display beginning at 10:00 pm Please anticipate loud noises, as well as traffic delays on Jefferson Street and Avenue 40.

Local Vaccine Clinic Information

This post is for informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement by Sun City Shadow Hills Community Association.

 

Circe Healthcare in Palm Desert


https://www.circecares.com/

 

Desert Care Network in Indio


Thursday, April 22
Clinic hours: 11 am – 4:00 pm
Last appointments 4 pm
380 appointments for Moderna available
Sedona Surgical Center
81812 Dr Carreon Blvd STE F
Indio, CA 92201
https://myturn.ca.gov/

California Driver License Extensions

California has extended noncommercial driver licenses (including AB 60 and limited-term) expiring during the COVID-19 pandemic. The terms of your extension depends on your age.

  • License holders under the age of 70 (March-July 2020 expirations): Extension valid through July 31, 2020.
  • License holders over the age of 70 (March-December 2020 expirations): Extension valid for one year from original expiration date.

The extensions are automatic, but eligible drivers will not receive a new card or paper extension in the mail. As an option, these drivers can request a free temporary paper extension online through DMV’s Virtual Field Office to document their extension, though one is not needed to drive.

For more information, please visit the DMV website: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/covid-19-relief-information/driver-license-extensions/

Interstate 10/Monroe Street Interchange Public Comment

A public outreach virtual hearing with CalTrans and the city of Indio is scheduled for June 9, 2020, from 4 to 6:00 pm The purpose of the hearing is to keep the public updated about the Interstate 10/Monroe Street project. In addition, the Draft Initial Study/Environmental Assessment (IS/EA) is now available for review and download.

If you are unable to participate in the virtual hearing, and have comments about the IS/EA, please submit your comments in writing no later than June 22, 2020 to: California Department of Transportation, ATTN: Renetta Cloud, Senior Environmental Planner 464 W 4th Street, 6th Floor, MS 823 San Bernardino, CA 92401 or via e-mail to: Interstate10_Monroe_Int@dot.ca.gov. Please include “Interstate 10 Monroe” in the subject line. If there are no major objections, Caltrans will proceed with the project’s design.

To attend the virtual hearing, go to the City of Indio's website for a Zoom meeting link. To attend without internet access, use the following call-in numbers:

  • English - (253) 215-8782 and enter the Webinar ID: 953 6052 2503
  • Spanish - (872) 240-3311 and enter the Access Code: 126-113-853

The public review period runs from May 22- June 22, 2020.

The current estimated project cost is between $63-$65 million, and construction is scheduled to begin in late 2023.

Monroe Interchange Project Soon Ready for Community Review

Project engineers are just days away from setting a date for a public meeting on the I-10/Monroe Street interchange project. Due to the current environment involving COVID-19, the public meeting will be held 100 percent virtually. All efforts will be made to outreach to community members who would like to participate in the public review portion of this long-awaited project. Watch for more information in the next few weeks.

Some improvements include reconstructing and widening the I-10/Monroe Street bridge overcrossing and the Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel bridge; reconstructing and widening the existing on- and off-ramps; adding an eastbound auxiliary lane between the Monroe Street and Jackson Street interchanges; adding acceleration and deceleration lanes at the westbound Monroe Street on- and off-ramps and a deceleration lane at the eastbound Monroe Street off-ramp.

The current estimated project cost is $85 million, and final design is expected to begin in late 2020.

Indio Collection Events

You might recall back in March in which we passed along Indio's 2020 schedule of free collection events. That has changed due to COVID-19 concerns. All events scheduled in the month of May have been cancelled.

These include:

  • The May 2nd paper shredding event.
  • The May 16th e-waste and paper shredding event.
  • The May 30th hazardous waste collection event.

No word yet on the remainder of the 2020 schedule, but it is copied below. As you can see the next event still on the schedule is not until September 12th. If any of that changes I will let you know.

Coachella Valley Calendar of Events – March 2020

 

Empire Polo  Through Mar. 29
Every Sunday. A fun polo season filled with competitive polo tournaments and games that are open to the public. Spectators are invited to attend matches throughout the season, either by tailgating or watching from the comfort of the VIP section.
Time/Place: 12pm & 2pm / Empire Polo Club, Indio
Contact: 760-342-7755 / www.empirepolo.com

 

Playtri Desert Triathlon   Mar. 1
Desert Triathlon is the perfect race for both the new or beginner triathlete, and the experienced triathlete looking to shake off their winter rust. Were situated on the calendar as the perfect warmup to several longer distance races, including the 70.3 in Oceanside.
Time/Place: 7:30am-12:30pm / Lake Cahuilla Recreation Area, La Quinta
Contact: 949-444-2365 / www.deserttriathlon.com

 

La Quinta Art Celebration   Mar. 5-8
Fine Art, Fine Wine, Fab Food & Live Music. Will showcase 220 world-class juried artists from across the country and abroad exhibiting their fine art and craft in 12 media categories including Painting, Sculpture, Glass, Ceramics, Jewelry, Photography, Fiber, Wood and Mixed Media.
Time/Place: La Quinta Civic Center: 78495 Calle Tampico
Contact: 760-628-7770 / www.laquintaartcelebration.org

 

Living Desert Zoo Golden Anniversary Gala 2020: Palm Desert   Mar. 7
Celebrating 50 Years of Conservation Guests are invited to dress in black and gold cocktail attire and share in an evening of entertainment, unique raffle opportunities, dinner, and engaging animal encounters. The Gala fundraiser, benefitting new habitats for African black rhinoceros, lions, and a state-of-the-art event center, begins in the Living Legacy Garden with a Golden Opportunities Cocktail Reception. Following the reception is 24K Fine Dining along with Raise the Paw, the Mane Event Raffle, and Solid Gold Entertainment by The Midtown Men.
Time/Place: 5:30pm / 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert
Contact: 760-346-9584 / www.livingdesert.org

 

Braille Institute Coachella Valley Open House   Mar. 7
Join us in celebrating the opening of our new neighborhood center! Braille Institute provides free services and programs for people who have low to no vision.
Time/Place: 10am-2pm / 74-245 Highway 111, #E101, Palm Desert
Contact: 760-321-1111 / www.brailleinstitute.org/coachellavalley

 

Coachella Valley Wildflower Festival   Mar. 7
This FREE event celebrates wellness, recreation, safety and the outdoors. Featuring local artists and exhibitors, a kids zone, beer & wine garden with live music, food & beverages for purchase, raffles and much, much more! FUN for all ages.
Time/Place: 9am-4pm / Palm Desert Civic Center Park
Contact: 760-862-9918 / www.DesertMountains.org

 

Rancho Mirage Music in the Park   Mar. 7, 14 & 21
Free to the public. Food and beverage will be available for purchase inside the amphitheater. FREE PARKING is available at the park and adjacent to the park along San Jacinto Drive. Please note, the following items are NOT PERMITTED inside the amphitheater: Outside food/beverages, smoking, vaping, lawn chairs, pets or ice chests/coolers.
Time/Place: 7-9:30pm / Rancho Mirage Amphitheater
Contact: 760-324-4511 x273 / www.RanchoMirageCA.gov

 

Desert Living Home Expo   Mar. 12
Rancho Mirage is famous for the design district we have here! The chamber is bringing chamber members and the public together for something unseen in the valley before. In the height of season, local businesses will showcase their wares and products to the masses in an absolutely beautiful setting. Whether attendees are looking for a major renovation, solar, adding a pool or high end appliances this is the home showcase where it is all found under one roof.
Time/Place: 11am-5pm / Omni Rancho Las Palmas, Rancho Mirage
Contact: www.RanchoMirageChamber.org

 

Friends of the Palm Springs Library Book Sale   Mar. 13-15
FOPSL will be selling books, CDs, DVDs and more! Friday is members preview.
Time/Place: Fri 12-4pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 10am-1pm / JC Frey Building: 300 S. Sunrise Way
Contact: 760-668-8838 / www.friendsofthepalmspringslibrary.org

 

Art on Main Street   Mar. 14 & 28
Features over 100 artists each season showing and selling their paintings, jewelry, mixed media, photography, ceramics, glass, woodwork, textiles, sculptures and more.
Time/Place: 10am-4pm / Old Town La Quinta
Contact: 760-600-0758 / www.oldtownlaquinta.com

 

Cathedral City State of the City & Expo   Mar. 17
This annual event offers a review of economic activity from the previous year, as well as future development and plans significant to the business community.  Mayor John Aguilar will be the featured speaker for this event.
Time/Place: 10am-2pm / DoubleTree by Hilton Golf Resort Palm Springs, Cathedral City
Contact: 760-347-0676 / www.gcvcc.org

 

Palm Desert State of City Luncheon   Mar. 20
Join us for this valuable networking opportunity celebrating the City of Palm Desert.
Time/Place: 11am-1pm / JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
Contact: 760-346-6111 / www.pdacc.org

 

ONE-PS Picnic & Community Expo   Mar. 21
Over 1000 residents enjoy the BBQ lunch, DJ entertainment, Pooch Parade, and exhibits at more than 50 booths. Exhibitors range from the Desert Water Agency which provides our water, to the Palm Springs Art Museum. The City of Palm Springs always has a great showing with the Police Department, Fire Department, Search and Rescue teams, as well as the CERT Program. Neighborhoods get involved with booths and prizes.
Time/Place: 11am-2pm / Ruth Hardy Park, Palm Springs
Contact: www.one-ps.org

 

Cathedral City Movies in the Park   Mar. 21
Tonights movie is Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Gather the family, blankets and/or chairs. The free event, hosted by the City of Cathedral City, happens once a month on a Saturday evening between November and May, at dusk. You are welcome to bring snacks or non-alcoholic drinks.
Time/Place: 7pm / Panorama Park: 28905 Avenida Maravilla
Contact: 760-770-0340 / www.discovercathedralcity.com

 

The VIMY Awards & WineLovers Auction   Mar. 21
A signature event reflective of the extraordinary people who populate the Palm Springs area. Because of who we are, we recognized the need to honor a significant contributor to healthcare in our Coachella Valley and beyond.  This first year we have chosen R. Ron Hare, MD as our inaugural recipient. Guests of this much-anticipated event are treated to delectable appetizers and an exquisite pre-auction meal courtesy of the Thunderbirds inspired culinary team.
Time/Place: 5-10pm / Thunderbird Country Club, Rancho Mirage
Contact: 760-625-0737 / https://cvvim.org

 

Rancho Mirage State of the City Luncheon   Mar. 26
Enjoy lunch and networking with like-minded professionals and learning more about the growing city, events and upcoming plans for the center of the valley. A very special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage and our Title Sponsor, the City of Rancho Mirage, Dessert Sponsor, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Centerpiece Sponsor, Rancho Mirage Florist.
Time/Place: 11:30am-1:30pm / The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
Contact: www.RanchoMirageChamber.org

 

Cathedral City LGBT Days   Mar. 27-29
Will honor the LGBT community and celebrate the diversity of Cathedral City. The free weekend festival includes an opening night kickoff party, the 6th annual community LGBT Days bed race, live musical performances, outdoor dancing, food, beverages, and community booths.
Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Cathedral City Civic Center Plaza
Contact: www.cathedralcitylgbtdays.com

 

Candidates Forum: Rancho Mirage City Council 2020   Mar. 30
Incumbents: Ted Weil & Richard Kite. Challengers: Stephen Jaffe & Maggie Lockridge. Free to the public. Limited seating. Will be on featured on RM TV as well.
Time/Place: 4-6pm / Rancho Mirage Public Library
Contact: www.RanchoMirageChamber.org

 

Giving is Always in Fashion   Mar. 30
Join us for an exclusive sneak peek at the Carlisle Collection for women. Proceeds will benefit Loma Linda University Childrens Health - Indio.
Time/Place: 11am-1pm / Cuistot Restaurant, Palm Desert
Contact: 909-226-1085 / https://lluch.org

 

Maclins Open Air Market   Every Wed. & Sat.
More than 400 vendors and thousands of shoppers. Regional cuisine and various snack foods are available. Parking is free and a small admission fee is charged to shoppers. Nearly everything for the entire family can be found at reasonable prices by browsing the many aisles with the moon as your companion. This is a very social marketplace and friends gather to shop and eat here.
Time/Place: 4-10pm / Riverside County Fairground, Indio
Contact: www.maclinmarkets.com

 

VillageFest   Every Thursday
Downtown Palm Springs transforms into a diverse array of artists, artisans, entertainers, and purveyors of fresh fruits and veggies, flowers, jewelry, snacks and sweets. Add all that to the great shops, restaurants, clubs, and entertainment venues located along World Famous Palm Canyon Drive and the result is one of Southern Californias most popular weekly events: VillageFest!
Time/Place: 6-10pm / Palm Canyon Drive
Contact: 760-320-3781 / www.villagefest.org

 

College of the Desert Street Fair   Every Sat. & Sun.
With merchandise and services for all ages and any budget, the Street Fair offers more than 300 merchants, artists, a farmers market, live entertainment, gourmet food and much more.
Time/Place: 7am-2pm / 43500 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert
Contact: 760-636-7957 / http://codaastreetfair.com

Indio City Manager’s Message

Mark Scott
Indio City Manager

Dear Indio Neighbors,

I am happy to report this month that our long-discussed Downtown Specific Plan is in final draft form and available for review on the City’s website. We are hoping that the City’s Planning Commission will review and adopt this plan in February, and that the City Council will be holding a final public hearing in March or April.

Yes, this plan is a long-time coming! I have read some online posts suggesting that people are tired hearing about Downtown plans and wondering when something will finally happen! One post said that there has been plan after plan, but we want restaurants and brew pubs, and housing and nightlife!

Fair enough! We hear you. Let me make the case that there are all sorts of reasons for hope right now:

  • The College of the Desert just announced that the Indio campus enrollment for the current semester is more than 6,000 students. That is a population of 6,000 students who mostly drive away from campus after their classes because we have not offered them any Downtown options.
  • And what is more, COD is going to build TWO new campus buildings that will bring its enrollment up to more than 10,000 students.
  • Meanwhile, in the City’s IPAC Theater, our Desert Theaterworks community theater group is selling out show after show in yet another award-winning season. Hundreds of people come Downtown for these shows regularly, but have only a few options for dining before or after the shows.
  • And the Coachella Valley History Museum is building its following with innovative new programs and new on-site exhibits. If you have not been to the history museum lately, you will be impressed with their new energy.
  • The beautiful new Loma Linda University Children’s Health - Indio, the newest jewel in our Downtown, is doing so well in serving the kids in our region that they are looking at the possibility of expanding.
  • And of course, the California Desert Trial Academy in Downtown Indio will soon be the only law school in Riverside County.
  • The John J. Benoit Detention Center is inching its way toward completion. Hundreds of new jobs and thousands of weekly business transactions will be occurring there. This offers an exciting new employment and housing market.
  • And only a few blocks away, the owners of the proposed Indio Grand Marketplace (formerly Indio Fashion Mall) are giving us very encouraging reports on their efforts to develop an active family lifestyle/entertainment center.

Downtowns are best defined, I think, as gathering places where the whole community feels ownership. That is why they are great places for museums, theaters, the arts, civic buildings and schools. So with that exciting foundation, we are inviting private investment to bring housing, retail, hospitality and nightlife to bolster those existing uses. And I am happy to report we are doing so with some success!

We already have negotiations underway with two potential developers of mixed use residential projects – one on Oasis Street and the other on Towne Street. These would be multi-story market-rate housing with street level restaurant, entertainment or retail tenants. We are also negotiating with a potential developer of a Downtown hospitality project. Time will tell if these deals move forward, but we are quite sure it is in our near future.

As an economic opportunity, our Downtown is ripe for reinvestment. As they say in the real estate business, our Downtown still has “the bones” to be restored as an “authentic public place” reflecting the cultural history of our community. Over the last few years, the City has acquired most of the property in the core of the Downtown. And with adoption of our General Plan and Downtown Specific Plan, the development community is able to look at a development opportunity ready to go! Stay tuned to this space for updates!

Mark Scott
mscott@indio.org

Originally published at https://www.indio.org/news/displaynews.htm?NewsID=797&TargetID=49

RMHS Winter Music Spectacular Concert (Dec. 17)

After participating in our Tenth Annual Golf Cart Parade last week, the Rancho Mirage High School Band and Instrumental Music Department proudly invites our friends at Sun City Shadow Hills to attend our Winter Music Spectacular Concert December 17, 2019 at 7 pm at the Helene Galen Performing Arts Center, 31001 Rattler Rd, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270.

Featuring the String Orchestra, Brass Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching Band, the Wind Symphony, and the SCSH Pom Squad.

Admission is FREE and donations are accepted.

We will also have a silent auction with wonderful baskets for the holidays.

We hope to see you there.

~ Dr. Brian McDaniel, Director of Bands and Instrumental Music