Tram to reopen Monday after weeks of repairs

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is set to reopen Monday, April 1, after closing its doors for 46 days.

The tram was forced to shut down following the record-breaking rainfall that hit the valley on Valentine’s Day.

Video shows water rushing through the Tram’s valley station, carrying dangerous debris and causing significant damage.

Work is now completed on the access road that washed out, severed powerlines, the contaminated water supply, and mountains of debris left behind.

Officials said the Tram is out nearly $4 million — which includes $1.5 million in repair costs, and $2.5 million in lost ticket sales revenue.

“That’s 5 weeks — that’s a lot during our peak season,” said Cara Youngman, the Tram’s public relations manager. “So it’s been pretty rough for us.”

It’s the third natural disaster to strike the Tram this year. First was the Cranston Fire, then the Chino Canyon Fire, and the valley’s worst flood in 70 years.

During this closure, employees were still paid.

“That does so much for our family and our well being and our livelihood,” Youngman said. She’s expecting big crowds for Monday’s reopening.

“We are so thankful to the public for their patience and understanding during this closure, we’re happy to have them back and we just can’t wait,” Youngman said.

Rides will begin up the mountain Monday at 10am. Advance ticket sales won’t begin until the following week. Tram officials recommend arriving early to avoid long wait times.

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