Palm Springs buys new equipment to help keep roads clear of blowing sand that leads to closures

Piles of sand and dirt, some as tall as 6 feet or higher, have accumulated at a number of washes and roadways throughout the Coachella Valley, primarily in areas that were flooded by Tropical Storm Hilary.

The problem has been a reoccurring issue along Vista Chino and Gene Autry Trail, for example, but has been worsened following last month's storm.

The situation has prompted questions from residents about when the piles will be moved permanently to help prevent the sand from blowing back onto roads that the City shuts down during wind or rain events.

Dust from these piles is whipped up during wind events and has been problematic for drivers. However, removing the piles of sand and dirt is an arduous and time-consuming task for city street crews.

"We have purchased a new motor grader that has been ordered. It should be here in the next couple of months and with that new equipment we will be able to flatten the land and make it nicer for the drive," said Daniel Martinez, Palm Springs Acting Assistant Director for Maintenance Facilities.