Airport Commission | October 21, 2026

The October 21, 2026, City of Palm Springs Airport Commission meeting focused on airport financing, capital planning, and infrastructure. Commissioners unanimously approved a recommendation for City Council to redeem the airport’s outstanding 2019 PFC-backed bonds using available PFC cash; the financial consultant projected approximately $700,000 in savings, and the item was scheduled for Council consideration on October 28. Staff also reported that the $93.6 million outbound baggage-handling project had broken ground, with more than 70% federally funded, and reviewed other active capital work. Accenture described its program-management and capital-planning assignment; a five-year capital improvement program is expected for commission review in December. A separate mural by artist Andre Krasov is in agreement development, with a budget not to exceed $22,000.

Staff reported that approximately 330,000 square feet of airport turf must be converted under water-use restrictions, with preliminary costs estimated at $2.3–$4 million. The Desert Water Agency granted an extension to January 2030. Commissioners asked staff to return in November with options for public and expert input, funding and design approaches, possible water-cost savings and graywater use, and legal flexibility. The commission also received financial and project updates; no other new contract award or procurement vote was identified.