Nonprofit awards over $1M to install shade structures, trees across CV Link

PALM DESERT (CNS) - The Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy has awarded more than $1 million in grant funding to install shade structures and native shade trees along rest stops in the Coachella Valley Link, officials said today.

The money will go to the Coachella Valley Association of Governments to add shade structures and more than 20 trees at rest stops in Palm Springs, Palm Desert and Coachella. The project comes as a direct response from feedback following the opening of the CV Link in 2025.

The CV Link Shade Structure and Shade Trees project is a strong example of the kind of investment Proposition 4 was designed to support,'' CVMC President Elizabeth King said in a statement. Warm temperatures are a familiar aspect of daily life in the Coachella Valley, and outdoor recreation is an essential public amenity for residents and visitors alike,'' CVMC Chair Deborah McGarrey added.

``Expanding shaded areas throughout the valley remains an ongoing priority, and we value our partnership with CVAG in advancing improvements to this corridor.'' The organization awarded $1,248,586 to the CVAG through Proposition 4, the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness and Clean Air Bond of 2024.

Officials expect the project to be completed by 2028.