Council approves design authorization for Bridges Over Water project at Indian Canyon and Mission Lakes

The Desert Hot Springs City Council approved authorization for a professional services agreement to design improvements at flood‑prone crossings on Indian Canyon and Mission Lakes Boulevard, a project staff said was accelerated after damage from Tropical Storm Hillary.

Deputy City Manager Mr. Pors described the 'Bridges Over Water' project as focused on crossings at Mission Creek and Morongo Wash where recent flood events overtopped existing channels and damaged road segments. He said the design phase will include preliminary design, alternatives analysis, environmental compliance, construction documents and bid support and that the project aims to keep Indian Canyon and Mission Lakes open in heavy rain so residents can reach the nearest hospital.

"The main purpose of this project is to maintain Indian Canyon and Mission Lakes open during the majority of our rain events specifically so we can reach the our nearest hospital," Mr. Pors told the council.

Staff reported a five‑firm request-for-proposal process and said NV5 Inc. ranked first in evaluations; council authorized staff to proceed with the recommended design agreement. The presentation noted the design phase will be funded with storm-drain development impact fees and that the city previously secured grant funding for construction through community project appropriations.

Council approved the item by roll call. Staff said they are pursuing aggressive scheduling for environmental review and aiming to begin construction planning in 2026–27, subject to permitting and funding.