City of Cathedral City Wins Two Prestigious Public Works Awards

The City of Cathedral City's Public Works Department and Engineering team have been recognized with two Project of Merit Awards from the American Public Works Association (APWA) Coachella Valley chapter, highlighting the city's commitment to excellence in infrastructure and community development.

The awards were presented at the APWA Coachella Valley Public Works Expo, recognizing outstanding public works projects that demonstrate innovation, community impact, and professional excellence.

Esperanza Park Recognized for Recreation Excellence

Esperanza Park received the APWA Project of Merit Award in the Recreation and Athletic Facilities category for its remarkable transformation of the Dream Homes neighborhood into a vibrant, 7.53-acre community hub.

The award recognizes how the park delivers an exceptional range of recreational and athletic amenities, including soccer fields, a futsal court, basketball courts, shaded playgrounds, fitness stations, picnic areas, walking paths, and dog parks. What set this project apart was its community-led approach to design and planning, ensuring the final result truly reflected residents' needs and desires.

By combining athletic facilities with inclusive recreational spaces and sustainable design practices, Esperanza Park has created lasting health, social, and environmental benefits for the community. The project serves as a model of community-driven public works that prioritizes both functionality and quality of life.

Downtown Connectors Project Wins Traffic and Mobility Recognition

The Downtown Cathedral City Connectors Gap Closure and Complete Streets Project earned the Project of Merit Award in the Traffic, Mobility and Beautification category for addressing critical transportation infrastructure needs throughout the city.

Project Achievements:

• 3.5 miles of Class II bike lanes
• 4,500 feet of new sidewalks
• 3,500 feet of multi-use trails
• 86 safety signs for enhanced visibility
• 14 ADA-compliant curb ramps for accessibility
• HAWK crossing for pedestrian safety
• Widened bridge over Cathedral Canyon Channel with 7-foot bike lane and 6-foot sidewalk

The project was funded through the Active Transportation Program (ATP) and successfully closed key bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure gaps on Cathedral Canyon Drive, Date Palm Drive, and East Palm Canyon Drive. Working closely with community stakeholders, the city focused on promoting healthy behaviors, improving safety, and reducing environmental hazards, especially in disadvantaged communities.

The project enhances connectivity not only within Cathedral City but also improves access to neighboring Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage. Additionally, it connects to the regional CV Link-a 40-mile pathway for bicycles, pedestrians, and low-speed electric vehicles-expanding valley-wide transportation options for residents.

Recognition of Professional Excellence

These awards reflect the high standards and professional expertise of Cathedral City's Public Works Department and Engineering team. The APWA recognition validates the city's approach to infrastructure development that prioritizes community input, sustainability, and long-term value.

Both projects demonstrate how thoughtful planning and execution can create infrastructure that serves multiple purposes: improving transportation options, enhancing recreation opportunities, promoting public health, and strengthening community connections.

Looking Forward

With Esperanza Park nearing completion at 99% and the Downtown Connectors Project successfully enhancing citywide mobility, these awards position Cathedral City as a leader in innovative public works. The recognition from professional peers across the Coachella Valley underscores the city's commitment to delivering infrastructure projects that make a meaningful difference in residents' daily lives.

The success of these projects sets a strong foundation for future infrastructure investments and demonstrates the value of community-centered design in public works.

For more information about Cathedral City's infrastructure projects, visit cathedralcity.gov or contact the Public Works Department at 760.770.0350.