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Preferred Coachella rail station site identified in Pueblo Viejo study; design emphasizes multimodal access
Summary
An HDR‑led feasibility study recommended a preferred Coachella station site in Pueblo Viejo and proposed a multimodal layout (pedestrian overcrossing, bus pullouts, parking and bike access) and a station‑area plan to catalyze downtown economic development; the study will feed into the broader CV Rail environmental process.
Marie Lewis Adams, consultant project manager with HDR, presented an executive summary of the Coachella Station Feasibility Study on March 25, telling the council the preferred site lies in the Pueblo Viejo area with station platforms near 4th–6th Streets and a proposed layover facility south of Avenue 52.
"We wanted to make sure this station was accessible in a multimodal manner," Adams said, describing ramps, stairs, elevators and a pedestrian overcrossing that could connect to a future community resilience center. The design includes shading, ticket vending and public‑realm elements and calls for local art and murals on covered ramps to reflect community identity.
The station area plan recommends higher‑density housing close to the station, open space, multimodal links to CV Link and road improvements, and an economic development strategy to strengthen downtown businesses and promote cultural activation. Adams said the study aligns with the city’s general plan and the Pueblo Viejo revitalization plan and will inform the broader CV Rail environmental review now beginning.
Council members praised the station’s design and art elements and asked about coordination with RCTC and funding. Adams said the study will feed into the CV Rail process and that community engagement and the environmental process will determine the final station location.
Staff recommended that the city begin implementing applicable station‑area recommendations where feasible and pursue funding opportunities to position the city for the regional passenger rail project.
