Fewer traffic jams on first day of Coachella Music Festival

The two-weekend long Coachella Music and Art festival is underway. It is a huge draw for the Valley economy.

So far, there’s been no reports of any problems. In fact, with recent road improvements, there’s a lot less traffic congestion in the area. It’s something fans, as well as residents and local businesses are happy to see.

“it is not so bad I expected it to be worse, but it’s not that bad,” said Indio resident Nicole Delgado.

It’s a surprise to many especially because 80,000 people are expected to fill the Empire Polo Grounds each day for the famous outdoor music festival.

“It’s my first time here in Coachella and we are just really happy to be out of the fog and in the sun and the warm weather,” said festival goer Kelly Fagan.

Some are camping out in their cars, but most are driving in.

“We want to make sure people get in and get out, but also for people to enjoy themselves during the festivities,” said Indio PD spokesperson Ben Guitron.

Hired security and local officers are working to keep congestion at a minimum.

“The street expansions that have been done have been a great asset to our operations. This year we’ve had very little congestion around the venue,” said Guitron.

“It’s very organized and traffic hasn’t been that bad, so we are loving it,” said festival goer Libby White.

Goldenvoice, the promoter of the festival, has hired more security on motorcycles to direct traffic. “Which is a great asset of addition help, but also helps on the perimeters trying to get traffic into the parking lots getting things to flow in, so there is no congestion on the public streets,” said Guitron.

Less crowded streets mean more people are able to access and spend money at local businesses.

“I’m seeing a lot of positives happen here. A lot of improvement, which is really good,” said Rudy Valenzuela, an employee at Ros Amarillos.

Ros Amarillos, a family run Mexican restaurant just blocks from the music festival, is already seeing a boost.

“That is going to be good for business, it’s going to help us get a little more business. We are welcoming anybody that wants to come,” said Valenzuela.

It’s not just restaurants, festival goers are expected to pump in more than $250 million into the local economy during both Coachella and Stagecoach festivals.

“Ya, at least $2,000 in groceries and supplies, so bringing a lot of commerce to Palm Springs and La Quinta for sure,” said White.

Indio Police say there hasn’t been any problems so far, in fact they are meeting with festival staff and security every few hours so they can make adjustments if need be.

Remember there are a few roads closed for this festival. For a complete list click here.