A major upgrade to the Ramon Road bridge between Palm Springs and Cathedral City will get underway later this year, kicking off two years of construction.
The estimated $48 million project will widen the bridge from four lanes to six and enhance sidewalk and bicycle lanes. The city of Palm Springs said the new bridge will reduce congestion and enhance connectivity along one of the valley’s busiest travel corridors.
“The Ramon Road Bridge Project is a major investment in the long-term safety, mobility and economic sustainability of the region,” Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto said in a press release. “We thank nearby residents, business owners, and commuters for their patience as we widen the corridor.”
Approved in 2024, construction has been scheduled to start in December of this year. One lane of traffic will be maintained in each direction throughout the project. It is expected to wrap up in December 2028.
Built decades ago, the bridge no longer meets state standards for seismic activity. Updates will enhance the structure’s earthquake resilience as well as its ability to withstand floods.
Around 40,000 vehicles traverse the bridge each day, making it an important regional east-west route. Because of that, the lane closures are likely to snarl traffic at times. When other major roads across the valley — including Vista Chino — close for blowing sand or flooding, Ramon Road often becomes crowded as drivers seek another route.
A total of 90% of the construction cost will be paid for by Caltrans, while the Coachella Valley Association of Regional Governments will pick up about three quarters of the remaining tab. The rest will be split between Palm Springs and Cathedral City.
Palm Springs plans to host community meetings to inform local businesses and homeowners of the project before construction begins. Official updates will be posted at www.RamonRoadBridgeProject.com.
Sam Morgen covers local government for The Desert Sun. Reach him at smorgen@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Ramon Road Bridge construction could snarl Palm Springs traffic
Reporting by Sam Morgen, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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By Sam Morgen, Palm Springs Desert Sun | USA TODAY Network
