Major Traffic Changes Begin on Cook Street and Highway 111 as Road Projects Continue

Drivers across the Coachella Valley are being advised to plan ahead as several major road projects are now underway.

In Palm Desert, construction crews with the Coachella Valley Water District have begun a major phase of pipeline installation along Cook Street. Starting Wednesday, July 30, northbound traffic on Cook Street will be diverted into the southbound lanes between Merrill Drive and Hovley Lane East. Traffic in both directions will be reduced to one lane during the work, which is expected to continue through September.

Meanwhile in La Quinta, the Highway 111 Road Rehabilitation Project has reached a key stage. Beginning Wednesday morning, the intersection of Washington Street and Highway 111 will be closed. Business access will remain available, but drivers will not be able to use the shopping areas to bypass the closure.

Traffic expert Chris Gunderson recommends using Miles Avenue and Fred Waring Drive as alternate routes. Drivers should still expect delays as traffic shifts to these detours.

In Palm Springs, the city has extended its road work around the future College of the Desert campus. The work, taking place on South Farrell Drive and East Baristo Road, will now continue until August 14. Construction in that area is primarily scheduled from morning to late afternoon.

Motorists are encouraged to allow extra travel time and stay alert for signage and detours as these projects continue throughout the summer.

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