The Eastern Coachella Valley is moving forward with a series of coordinated projects designed to strengthen community resilience, expand clean energy access, and improve transportation safety. Supported by the regional guidance and commitment of Supervisor Manny Perez the Mecca–North Shore Resiliency Plan brings together local agencies and partners to advance predevelopment work across solar energy, climate‑resilient infrastructure, and active transportation. This unified approach is laying the groundwork for long‑term improvements that will enhance quality of life for residents across the Coachella Valley.

Solar & Energy Storage Pre Development Phase

GRID Alternatives Inland Empire (GRID) has begun a comprehensive effort to assess solar and energy storage potential across 50 sites in Mecca and North Shore. The work includes:

• Solar Readiness Site Assessments
• Greenhouse Gas (GHG) analysis
• Roof, electrical, and shading evaluations
• Energy use data collection
• Identification of required upgrades

To support workforce development, GRID will also recruit and train three paid interns, providing hands on experience in clean energy project development.

North Shore Climate Resilience Center

The Desert Recreation District (DRD) is collaborating with residents, staff, and community stakeholders to shape the vision for a new Community Resilience Center next to North Shore Community Park at 99 480 70th Avenue. The center is envisioned as a hub for emergency response, community programming, and climate resilient services.

An architect is currently preparing schematic designs, design development documents, and construction plans, with completion expected by July 2026.

In parallel, GRID is conducting a microgrid feasibility study for the site. This study will evaluate:

• Existing electrical infrastructure
• Options for energy storage
• System siting and sizing
• Recommended equipment

Mecca–North Shore Active Transportation Improvements

To improve safety and mobility for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers, Riverside County’s Transportation and Land Management Agency (TLMA) is preparing design and environmental documents for the North Shore Bridge at 70th Avenue and Cleveland Street.

The work includes:

• CEQA environmental studies
• Architectural and engineering plans
• Advancing the project to 35% design to refine cost estimates

Avenue 70 Active Transportation Improvements

TLMA is also designing active transportation improvements along Avenue 70, stretching from 2nd Avenue and Hammond Road to 70th Avenue and Sea View Drive. This effort includes:

• CEQA environmental documentation
• Support for design plans
• Development of the Mecca to–North Shore Bike Lane, a long-anticipated connection for cyclists and pedestrians

Project schedules will be set once the necessary funding is in place.