and Gene Autry roads, especially during high winds when sand covers the roadway. But now, there’s finally progress to fix the problem.
A new bridge is already under construction on Indian Canyon, and the Palm Springs City Council recently approved $2.2 million to build a permanent 14-foot concrete wind wall along Gene Autry. The new structure will replace a temporary wooden wall erected 12 years ago, which many admit has done little to solve the issue.
We brought back contributors Stephanie Green, CEO of FG Creative, and attorney Brian Harnick of Romer and Harnick, to discuss the developments.
Stephanie Green expressed skepticism about whether a wall will truly fix the problem. “Sand dunes are living, breathing things, and the sand’s going to move when it wants to move,” she said. Green suggested that while the bridge offers hope, she questions whether the wall will hold up over time.
Brian Harnick added that the issue is more complicated than it seems. "Sand dunes are also habitats for protected species like the fringe-toed lizard," he said. Harnick expressed environmental concerns with building a wall, even if it's a cheaper solution compared to a bridge. "Those closures are really bad for this desert. People need access to medical care and work. I'm glad they're doing something, but it sounds like a Band-Aid."
Both contributors agreed that better infrastructure is crucial to maintaining Palm Springs' accessibility, especially during extreme weather.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 29, 2025
