The Desert Sun issued a report in Today’s paper about the status of redevelopment in Downtown Palm Springs…

In 2006, two plans were approved by the Palm Springs City Council, these were envisioned as gateways to the heart of downtown Palm Springs.

However, due to the decline in the economy and lack of available funding, both projects have been put on hold.  It could be years before either development breaks ground, amidst the worst economic climate in years.

The Port Lawrence Project, consisting of a 4 acre site on the corner of Palm Canyon and Alejo, has been stalled as the developer has not been able to obtain financing, per the Desert Sun report.  The original plan called for an exciting mixed use project consisting of retail and residential units. Port Lawrence is being “rethought to reflect the current economy” and could be redesigned as a boutique hotel with some condos, project architect Doug Hudson said last week.  RIght now, its just a vacant lot.

On the oppostie end of downtown, on the corner of Palm Canyon and Ramon, is the location of what is referred to as the “IHOP” project, (named after the International House of Pancakes currently located here), also known as The Palm Canyon.  The design also was a mixed use project with retail and residential.  However it suffers also from the downturn in the economy. The project received a one-year extension that expires in October, and representatives say they plan to ask for another one-year extension.

The Fashion Plaza, located in the center of Palm Springs downtown core, also awaits redevelopment. City and business leaders further envisioned Port Lawrence and The Palm Canyon to compliment the long-awaited remodel of this 13-acre Plaza.

Per the Desert Sun, “Representatives of Desert Fashion Plaza developer John Wessman and city officials say they’re in early negotiations to pen a public-private deal that could bring that remodel, a key piece of the downtown Palm Springs puzzle, into place.”

The next step in their negotiations is scheduled for Wednesday, David Ready, City Manager said. And he anticipates the City Council could review an agreement that outlines the financial roles of the city and the developer in October.

Ultimately- Downtown Palm Springs has huge potential once these three project are underway.  With the housing market starting to settle down a bit and showing signs of a rebound, hopefully we’re one step closer to economic stability.  Maybe eventually we’ll see these projects pick up some momentum sooner then later to help revive the Downtown Palm Springs core. 

Click here to read the full article: http://www.mydesert.com/article/20090821/NEWS05/908210302/1143/news01/City%20s%20gateway%20projects%20years%20off