Residents press for updated GIS biking data, smoke‑free housing and airport solar; commission reviews bike‑rack, sidewalk and pedestrian planning

During the public‑comment period, two residents urged the commission to act on recurring quality‑of‑life items.

Paul Henrikson, identifying himself as an Upper West Side resident and city volunteer, told commissioners that "our GIS data for the city is so far behind, outdated," and said missing layers in Google Maps and biking apps reduce usability for residents and visitors. Henrikson also renewed calls for a Smoke‑Free Palm Springs policy to improve the city's American Lung Association grade, arguing multi‑unit smoke‑free housing would raise public health outcomes.

John Hilgers told the commission he continues to advocate for solar panels and batteries at the municipal airport and offered to provide materials and follow up with staff on public‑private partnership options.

After public comments the commission reviewed subcommittee business. The active transportation group reported work to revise the city bike map, develop a bike‑rack master plan and standardize rack design to improve usability. Commissioners highlighted a missing‑sidewalk gap on Sunrise and a complex pedestrian/bike intersection at Ballardo and South Palm Canyon; engineering will evaluate near‑term grading and longer‑term design options.

The commission also heard that the pedestrian master plan has been funded but the signed agreement is pending; commissioners requested continued staff and consultant engagement and confirmed the Sustainability Commission will have review opportunities before council consideration.

The meeting closed with routine procedural comments, a reminder of an upcoming UC Riverside biodiversity presentation, and a motion to adjourn to April 21 at 5:30 p.m.