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Council backs extending El Paseo courtesy cart hours; expansion beyond district left for study
Summary
Staff presented the El Paseo courtesy cart program (three carts, 7–10k annual riders, about $224,000 annual cost from general fund). Council signaled support to extend operating hours to evenings/weekends; expanding service area (Living Desert, mall, San Pablo) will be studied for costs and revenue options.
City staff reviewed the El Paseo courtesy cart program and sought council feedback on whether to extend operating hours, add vehicles or expand the service area.
Martin Alvarez explained the program’s history: the service began in 2004, currently operates with three carts (two standard and one ADA unit) from October through May, seven days a week from roughly 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and averages 7,000–10,000 riders annually. Alvarez said the contract cost is about $224,000 per season and is funded from the general fund.
Alvarez said the El Paseo Parking and Business Improvement District supports the program and has asked staff to explore extending hours, including evenings and weekends. He asked for council direction as staff prepares an RFP when the current contract ends.
Council members generally favored extending hours—some suggested modest additional evening coverage to serve restaurants and hotel connections—but expressed caution about expanding service beyond El Paseo (to the Living Desert, the mall or San Pablo) without cost‑sharing or clear revenue offsets. Staff told council that modest hour extensions could be handled with the existing fleet while expansion of the service area would likely require more vehicles and a higher contract cost.
Council requested staff return with cost estimates and potential revenue or partnership options if expansion beyond El Paseo is to be pursued. No formal motion was made; staff will include options in the upcoming RFP process.
Sources: Presentation by Martin Alvarez and council discussion during the Palm Desert study session.
