Modernism Group Will Not Sue Over Town & Country Demolition

PALM SPRINGS – The long sagaplayed out over the future of the Desert Fashion Plaza was shortened a bit over the weekend when a prominent modernism group promised not to file suit over a controversial part of the plan.

The proposal involves demolishing the Town and Country Center on Indian Canyon Drive. Developers wanted to flatten the area to make room for a new east/west street that could bring more traffic to the 12-acre mall.

“The City has removed all the barriers to an effective negotiation with Mr. Wessman,” said Mayor Steve Pougnet.”Now, we can produce a project the community has been looking forward to for more than 20 years.”

What was discussed in the meeting is not known, but Mayor Pounget applauded the deal.

“They were willing to open lines of communication with the City — grasping how crucial this redevelopment project is to the future success of Palm Springs — and we thank them for that.”

The City of Palm Springs can now negotiate with mall owner John Wessman on the development of the property, which both sides hope will make for a better shopping venue, more traffic, and more money being spent by customers.