Q: WHAT IS THE PALM DESERT SEWER IMPROVEMENT PROJECT?
A: The Palm Desert Sewer Improvement Project involves the installation of a new 33-inch sewer pipeline along 3.5 miles of roadway. Work started on Cook Street, moved north to Avenue 42, west to Corporate Way, north to Hovley Lane East and west to Portola Avenue. The route continues north on Portola to Hovley Lane West, west to Monterey Avenue and north to Country Club Drive.
Q: WHY IS THE PROJECT NECESSARY?
A:The project was developed by the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) to accommodate rapid development and future growth for the cities of Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and portions of Cathedral City. Moreover, the new sewer line will prevent potential sewer spills during peak wet-weather periods when existing trunk sewers are vulnerable.
Q: HOW MUCH WILL THE PROJECT COST AND WHO IS PAYING
FOR IT?
A:The estimated cost is $12 million, which is being funded through the Coachella Valley Water District’s Sanitation Capacity Charge - a one-time sewer connection fee paid by homeowners or business customers when they first connect to the district’s sewer system.
Q: WHEN WILL IT BE COMPLETED?
A: The project was initially expected to be completed in February 2007. However, numerous delays, including underground utility conflicts on Cook Street, have set the project behind schedule. It is now expected to be complete by the end of 2007.
Q: AT WHAT TIMES WILL CONSTRUCTION BE TAKING PLACE?
A: In the area around 42nd Avenue, Cook Street and Corporate Way, work was conducted at night to minimize disruption to local businesses, including the Palm Desert Post Office. Work is expected to be carried out during daylight hours for the balance of the project. Weekend work will occasionally be necessary, but only occur with the city of Palm Desert’s permission.
Q: WILL STREETS ALONG THE PIPELINE STILL BE ACCESSIBLE?
A: The project requires significant lane closures along city streets to accommodate trenching to a depth of 24 feet in certain locations. Traffic along Monterey, Hovley Lane West, Portola, Hovley Lane East, Corporate Way, 42nd Avenue and Cook Street will be obstructed at various times throughout the one-year construction period. Construction crews endeavor to maintain access to all area businesses during the business day. All street closures and detours are announced in advance.
Q: WILL THE PUBLIC BE NOTIFIED OF ROAD CLOSURES
AND DETOURS?
A:Nearby residents and businesses are notified in advance of the times and locations of these closures. Also regular updates and traffic advisories are distributed to local newspapers, television and radio stations and posted on this web site at www.cvwd.org/pd_construction_update.htm. Public meetings will be scheduled to discuss project construction, related closures and detours.
Q: HOW CAN I OBTAIN FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROJECT?
A: Members of the public can learn more by calling our hotline at
(760) 832-0739
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