Tram reopens as firefighters work to put out wildfire

Firefighters hope today to contain a brush firethat has charred about 60 acres near the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, causingthe attraction to close for a day.

The blaze broke out near the tram’s upper parking lot near Highway 111and Tramway Road about 1:40 p.m. Tuesday and burned uphill, according to theU.S. Forest Service.

Firefighters had the fire 20 percent contained, or surrounded, thismorning and they hope to have the fire fully surrounded by 8 p.m. today. Theblaze was stopped at 60 acres, and firefighters prevented it from spreading tothe tram, according to the Forest Service.

The tram reopened this morning, according to spokeswoman Lena Smith.

“We are grateful to the firefighters for their quick response and hardwork in getting this fire under control,” Rob Parkins, the tram’s generalmanager, said.

Today, firefighters will keep monitoring fire conditions, and will usewater and retardant-dropping helicopters as needed. The steep and rocky terrainand heat can make firefighting in the area difficult, according to the ForestService.

There were no reports of injuries or damaged structures as a result ofthe fire, which was being fought mainly by hand crews and helicopters becauseof the steep terrain. A total of 200 firefighters were deployed, along withseven engines and four air tankers, according to the Forest Service.

How the fire started, if known, has not been disclosed. The Palm SpringsFire Department is in charge of the probe, according to the Forest Service.

The tram will be closed from Saturday to Aug. 31 for annual maintenance.