An important development application for a new Hampton Inn hotel, along with accompanying retail amenities aimed at accommodating the growing workforce of the local logistics/warehousing sector and travelers in Desert Hot Springs, has been unanimously approved by the city’s Planning Commission. The development, proposed by Jade Group, is located at the strategic intersection of Indian Canyon Drive and 20th Avenue, a burgeoning area near a soon-to-open Amazon distribution center.
The approved mixed-use project encompasses a four-story, 105-room Hampton Inn by Hilton, complemented by a Starbucks coffee shop, a restaurant with drive-thru capabilities, and additional retail space. The 4.3-acre site, currently vacant, is zoned as Commercial Highway, making it suitable for such developments.
Developers have explicitly identified logistics workers from the upcoming Amazon distribution center, along with other industrial hubs, as primary users of the hotel and its amenities. Jade Group representative Brian Patel noted the project’s strategic position, highlighting the convenience for logistics workers, truck drivers, and corporate travelers, as well as tourists visiting nearby Joshua Tree or Palm Springs.
“This project will significantly benefit Desert Hot Springs by creating jobs, driving substantial transient occupancy taxes (TOT), and enhancing local infrastructure,” Patel explained. “Our aim is to serve logistics employees, especially those associated with the large Amazon facility, along with travelers on Interstate 10 seeking rest and amenities.”
The Hampton Inn, a Hilton brand, will feature modern architecture, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and dedicated dining areas. Starbucks, confirmed as part of the project, aligns with contemporary convenience-driven formats, emphasizing drive-thru and mobile ordering options. Negotiations are ongoing to secure a sit-down restaurant tenant capable of providing full-service dining and beverages.
To support the anticipated traffic growth, the city is undertaking infrastructure improvements, including undergrounding overhead utility lines along Indian Canyon Drive, adding a new traffic signal at 19th Avenue, and widening roadways to accommodate increased truck traffic efficiently. Amazon itself is enhancing local road infrastructure around the distribution center, which aligns with the city’s broader vision for improved connectivity and traffic flow.
Commissioners and city staff alike expressed enthusiasm for the development, recognizing its alignment with Desert Hot Springs’ economic growth strategy. Patricia Villagomez, Principal Planner, underscored that the project meets all zoning requirements and is consistent with the city’s General Plan.
“This development represents precisely the type of growth Desert Hot Springs aims to foster,” Villagomez stated during her presentation. “It not only fulfills immediate logistical needs but also provides a vital economic boost through job creation and increased municipal revenues.”
Following the Planning Commission’s approval, the next step is securing City Council authorization. Should the council approve the development, Jade Group anticipates beginning construction promptly, starting with the Hampton Inn and Starbucks, and phasing in the restaurant and retail elements subsequently.
