Palm Desert reports $5.68 million Vision Zero grant and completes Cook Street signal

Public works staff told the Palm Desert City Council on Jan. 22 that the Cook Street and Marketplace Drive traffic civil improvements are complete, including a new traffic signal, ADA-compliant curb ramps, ladder-style crosswalks and yellow signal backplates to improve visibility.

"This improvement includes installation of a new traffic signal at the previously unsignalized intersection, improving both traffic operation as well as pedestrian safety," said Chris Gary of the Public Works Department, who presented the project completion.

Gary also announced that the city received a federal Vision Zero implementation grant totaling $5,680,000 to fund improvements at 24 priority locations, largely around schools. "The grant funds improvements across 24 priority locations, including new sidewalks, curb ramps, pedestrian scale lighting, high visibility crosswalks, and speed feedback signs," he said, adding staff will provide further details after the Federal Highway Administration sends the grant agreement.

Council members praised the work and the grant, noting it supports safety near Palm Desert High School and other high-injury corridors. Staff said most improvements will be located on the city's high-injury network (8% of roadways but 83% of serious collisions) and some funding will support demonstration activities and pedestrian campaigns.

Staff will return with the grant agreement and implementation schedule once paperwork from the Federal Highway Administration is received.