Board OKs $100K allotment to install new lights at Coachella Valley Parks

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors today approved a $100,000 allocation to install new lights at parks in Indio Hills and North Shore for security and to improve recreational opportunities.

In a 5-0 vote without comment, the board authorized the Riverside County Executive Office to draw down the Unincorporated Communities Fund for the benefit of the Desert Recreation District.

The appropriation will be divided between Indio Hills Community Center Park and North Shore's Parque de Pueblo Park, officials said.   

"Community parks within the Indio Hills and North Shore communities currently lack sufficient lighting,'' according to an EO statement posted to the board's agenda. "Installation of lighting associated with this project will provide enhanced security and extend the available time-of-use for these community parks."

Both facilities are located within the county's Fourth Supervisorial District in the Coachella Valley.

New solar LED lights and poles will be installed throughout the Indio Hills park, while LEDs will be affixed to existing standards at the North Hills site, according to documents.

The board set aside $10 million in the 2023-24 fiscal year budget for the Unincorporated Communities Fund, which was established in 2020 with the goal of providing revenue streams for projects specifically benefiting "disadvantaged unincorporated communities."

Money in the fund is designated for equal distribution between the five supervisorial districts.

Officials said the light installations will be completed before the end of June.