The roughly $2.2 million project was designed to reduce blowing sand and improve visibility for drivers along a stretch of roadway known for strong winds. The city is hoping this wall along Gene Autry Trail will help keep sand from blasting vehicles in a stretch known for high winds. (Photo: City of Palm Springs)The city of Palm Springs has completed construction of a 590-foot-long brick wall along North Gene Autry Trail designed to reduce blowing sand and improve driver visibility. The wall, which stands up to 14.5 feet tall, is located along North Gene Autry Trail between the Union Pacific Railroad bridge just south of Interstate 10 and East Via Escuela. The structure replaced an existing temporary wooden barrier in an area known for strong winds and blowing sand that create sand dunes on the roadway and reduce visibility.

Source: The Guardian February 12, 2026 08:43 UTC