Construction on Gerald Ford in Palm Desert raises concerns ahead of busy season
PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - A major road improvement project on Gerald Ford Drive in Palm Desert is causing frustration among nearby businesses and residents, who say the timing and limited notice are creating unexpected challenges during the valley’s busy season.
The project — which stretches from Cook Street to El Paseo del Corazón — has closed all eastbound lanes and reduced westbound traffic to a single lane. The city says the work includes new pavement, upgraded sidewalks, improved traffic signals, and underground utility upgrades.
But for some businesses in the affected shopping centers, the construction is already taking a toll.
“So far it seems like business slowed down a little bit. We were already hard to find... I know it’s going to be crazy for traffic because we have these businesses here, Acrisure and everything so definitely think it’s bad timing.”
Antoinette, Palm Royale Collective Assistant Manager
Other business owners say they received less than a week’s notice about the closure and have had to warn customers about delays and detours. Many worry the impacts could worsen as the busy season ramps up.
Getting answers, Thomas Soule, Palm Desert Public Affairs Manager, says the city takes communication with businesses seriously.
“I can’t speak to the specific timeline of that but we can say the city takes our communication with the businesses very seriously. We have a fantastic team that’s dedicated to going out and speaking with business owners individually."
Thomas Soule, Palm Desert Public Affairs Manager
City officials acknowledge the disruption but say the timing is unavoidable. Soule says the city must stagger its construction projects throughout the year.
“If you take all the projects that we do in a year on our streets, if we did them all during the convenient time of the summer, those of us who live here probably wouldn’t be able to get around."
Thomas Soule, Palm Desert Public Affairs Manager
Soule also emphasized that the work on Gerald Ford Drive is essential for long-term growth, including infrastructure needed for the new Fire Station 102 currently under development along the corridor.
Some business owners say they understand the necessity — they just hope the temporary setbacks are worth the long-term improvements.
The Gerald Ford Drive project is expected to be completed in May, aligning with the planned opening of the new fire station.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.
