Mid Valley Basin Drainage/Storm Drain Improvements

The City of Palm Desert is implementing the Mid Valley Basin Drainage/Storm Drain Improvements project to mitigate flooding and public safety hazards at the intersection of Gerald Ford Drive and Cook Street. The project is divided into two phases, with Phase 1 focusing on the Mid Valley Basin and Phase 2 covering the installation of a new basin and underground storm drains. Key infrastructure work includes widening and regrading a 3,700-foot-long linear basin to a width of 50 feet and a depth of 9 to 9.5 feet, which involves removing and installing concrete weirs. Additionally, a new underground storm drain approximately 3,800 feet long and 36 to 48 inches wide will be installed within the Gerald Ford Drive right-of-way, featuring up to six inlets and requiring the excavation of roughly 1,800 cubic yards of material. A new basin will also be constructed on approximately four acres of property between the linear basin and Gerald Ford Drive. The project is governed by the California Environmental Quality Act, with a Mitigated Negative Declaration issued following an Initial Study that evaluated impacts on air quality, biological resources, and hydrology. Regulatory permits are required from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the State Water Resources Control Board. Phase 2 construction is estimated to occur between January 9, 2027, and March 2, 2027, encompassing clearing, grading, utility installation, and paving. All work must adhere to City grading standards and current fire protection designs to ensure adequate water supply and fire flow. The project is managed by the City of Palm Desert, with Lucero Leyva serving as the Senior Project Manager.