Drivers unaware of newly-renovated parking structure in downtown Palm Springs

It was another busy Saturday afternoon in downtown Palm Springs. The sidewalks were bustling and parking spots along North Palm Canyon were filled.

“I just said a little prayer and that’s how it happens,” Eddie Duhan told KESQ News Channel 3’s and CBS Local 2’s Katie Widner.

“It is very full,” said Vicki Watkins, who visit the area every weekend. “In fact, you had to fight for a space on the street.”

Nearly every spot was filled, except the ones in the free, newly-refurbished underground lot located in the heart of downtown. Less than two dozen vehicles populated some of the 600 spots.

“If I had known there was a parking structure down there, I would have definitely come down here,” said Cindy Prather.

Prather and her husband parked at the very north end of Palm Canyon and walked down to the shops.

Part of the problem with filling the parking structure may be that the front entrance, which is near the front of the Hyatt, looks like it could be part of the hotel, and does not have clear signage.

“There should be a sign, ‘public parking,’ Prathers said.

The city said directional signage is being completed, along with an additional 400 parking spots underground. Drivers can access the structure in front of the Hyatt on North Palm Canyon Drive, or behind it across from the Palm Springs Art Museum. Parking is free. The lot is closed from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. every day.