Know Before You Go: Major Road Projects in La Quinta, Cathedral City and Palm Springs

Drivers across the Coachella Valley should prepare for delays this week as several major construction projects get underway.

In La Quinta, a pavement rehabilitation project on Miles Avenue is causing significant traffic impacts. The westbound side of Miles Avenue is closed this week, and officials recommend using alternate routes such as Fred Waring Drive, Highway 111 or Interstate 10 to avoid congestion.

Meanwhile, in Cathedral City, a private development project along East Palm Canyon Drive between Perez Road and Bankside Drive has reduced eastbound traffic to a single lane. Drivers may want to consider alternate routes including Dinah Shore Drive, Fred Waring Drive or Country Club Drive.

In Palm Springs, work is beginning on a new traffic signal at the intersection of North Indian Canyon Drive and Via Escuela. Crews are currently locating underground utilities, with intermittent traffic control expected. Additional lane closures are anticipated as construction progresses.

Also in Palm Springs, crews continue work on the South Palm Canyon Bridge project. Large steel beams are scheduled for delivery this week, which may result in temporary traffic stoppages while equipment and materials are moved into place.

Transportation officials say this is only the beginning of what is expected to be a busy summer construction season throughout the valley. Drivers are encouraged to slow down, remain alert in work zones and avoid distractions behind the wheel.

Officials also remind motorists to put their phones away while driving, noting that even a brief glance away from the road can cause drivers to miss important traffic changes and create dangerous situations.