If you live in the Coachella Valley, you’re likely already well acquainted with CV Link. But for those unfamiliar, the CV Link initiative is committed to establishing a greener, healthier alternative transportation solution that connects the cities and neighborhoods of the sprawling Coachella Valley. Automobiles are not permitted on CV Link. Rather, it is reserved for bicycles, foot traffic, and even golf carts. For our Angeleno readers, consider it a permanent CicLAvia that runs from Palm Springs to Coachella.
It’s hard to believe that it’s almost been 10 years since the Palm Springs community first got a look at the plans for a 40-mile paved stretch traversing the Coachella Valley exclusively reserved for bicyclists, pedestrians, and electric vehicles (moving at a mellow pace). We’re, of course, referring to the Coachella Valley Link, better known simply as CV Link. And the homestretch is in sight.
The Major Existing Segments of CV Link
Phase one of CV Link is typically divided into two major segments: Palm Springs North and Palm Springs South.
Palm Springs North
- Passes over the Whitewater River levee
- Start: Vista Chino
- Termination: Palm Springs Visitor Center
Palm Springs South
- Passes along Tahquitz Creek
- Start: Palm Canyon Drive
- Termination: Demuth Park
Ground officially broke on CV Link construction in 2017, with its first stretch opening to the public just a year later. The first phase that was officially planned out in 2016 is on track for completion by the year’s end, satisfying the commitment for a 40-mile trail stretching across the valley. However, some of these trails will still need additional beautification work extending into 2026. The project has done an admirable job of more or less staying within the approximately $100 million budget. However, lawmakers voted to set aside an additional $15 million to keep CV Link on track through its final leg of phase one.
The cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells notably pulled out of CV Link, inevitably opting to establish their own system of bicycle paths independent of the project. Daunted by the mounting costs, safety concerns, and sources of funding, the two cities have left noticeable gaps in what would have been a continuous system of pathways and trails.
At some point, the initial phase would have been considered the entirety of the CV Link system. But a second phase is in the very early stages of development. This phase would continue to extend CV Link from a Mecca/North Shore trail, effectively bringing the program to the Salton Sea. The next step will be a study overseen by Dokken Engineering at an estimated cost of $1.2 million. Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) and Riverside County have agreed to split this cost to keep progress moving forward.
As always, I stand by to offer any information/ideas/perspectives to you, your friends and your family as needed.
Photos credit: Engage Palm Springs & Coachella Valley Link