On January 23, 2025, Palm Springs City Council took a significant step forward in shaping the future of Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) by unanimously approving the Airport Master Plan conceptual development plan. This approval includes the selection of the hybrid Rental Car Center (RCC) alternative, a key milestone in ensuring the airport continues to meet the region’s growing needs while preserving its unique character.
The approved hybrid RCC option balances functionality and aesthetics, featuring a single-story structure with two sub-surface levels north of the terminal, adjacent to baggage claim. This design consolidates rental car operations while maintaining passenger convenience and the airport’s walkability. If demand continues, a second structure south of Kirk Douglas Way could be added in a future phase.
It is important to note that while the Master Plan outlines the size, scale, and location of airport components like terminals and parking, it does not include design details or funding plans. These elements will come later, with opportunities for public input at each step.
“With the City Council’s approval, PSP takes another bold step forward, ensuring it remains not only a gateway for travelers but a source of pride for the communities we serve,” Executive Director Harry Barrett, Jr. said. “We’re laying the groundwork for thoughtful, community-focused growth while ensuring the airport reflects the values of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley.”
What Happens Next?
Construction on projects identified in the Airport Master Plan will not begin immediately. This milestone represents the completion of the plan’s conceptual phase. It allows PSP to initiate the next step: environmental analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which is expected to take 12-18 months to evaluate potential environmental impacts. Following CEQA approval, detailed design, financial analysis, and other preparatory work will occur, and stakeholder feedback will continue throughout each stage.
Based on the timeline outlined in the Airport Master Plan, the first phase of terminal development could begin in the next 3-4 years. This includes the construction of 7 new gates, a rental car center, a Federal Inspection Station (FIS) to offer international travel and an expanded baggage claim. If all steps proceed as planned, construction could start by 2027 or 2028, with initial terminal expansions potentially ready for use by the early 2030s.
Commitment to Public Engagement
Public participation remains a cornerstone of the planning process. There will be opportunities for community members to provide feedback on the design and implementation of proposed projects. This collaborative approach ensures that PSP’s growth aligns with the needs and values of the community.
Highlights of the Hybrid RCC Alternative
- Proximity and Walkability: Located adjacent to the terminal, the RCC maintains the airport’s reputation for passenger convenience.
- Phased Development: The hybrid model allows for scalability, with initial construction addressing immediate needs, while later phases in another location would accommodate future demand.
- Preservation of Aesthetic Integrity: The RCC design will respect PSP’s midcentury modern architecture, ensuring harmony with the iconic Wexler terminal.
Overview of the Master Plan Process
Palm Springs International Airport is a vital gateway and economic driver for the Coachella Valley, serving over 3.2 million passengers in 2024. Projections estimate this number could double by 2042. Proactive planning ensures that PSP can grow responsibly while preserving its unique midcentury modern aesthetic and passenger-friendly charm.
The development of the Master Plan has been an inclusive and deliberate effort. Beginning in July 2022, when the City Council approved the plan’s scope, the process involved the input of diverse stakeholders, including regional partners, airport tenants, and the local community.
Key milestones include:
- Stakeholder Engagement: Nearly 40 outreach presentations were conducted with organizations ranging from all city councils in the Coachella Valley to community groups, local businesses, and airport tenants.
- Public Open Houses: Three major public open houses—one in September 2023, one in June 2024, and another in December 2024—welcomed over 350 attendees who reviewed proposed alternatives, asked questions, and provided feedback.
- Community-Driven Refinements: Input gathered from open houses, Airport Commission meetings, and individual stakeholder meetings played a critical role in shaping the conceptual plan. For instance, community feedback about preserving the iconic Wexler terminal and ensuring walkability directly influenced the creation and selection of the hybrid RCC option.
- Airport Commission Recommendations: After thorough review and discussions, the Airport Commission unanimously endorsed the conceptual development plan and hybrid RCC, reflecting a broad consensus on the vision for PSP’s future.
A Commitment to the Future
The Airport Master Plan underscores PSP’s dedication to building a sustainable, forward-thinking airport that reflects the needs of the community and the region. This plan is not just about managing growth but about setting a vision for the future – one that balances modern infrastructure with iconic design and embraces sustainability, regional connectivity, and passenger convenience.
