Between 2024 and 2025, Gene Autry Trail in Palm Springs experienced several significant traffic incidents, including fatal collisions and weather-related closures.
A three-vehicle crash occurred on Gene Autry Trail between Salvia Road and Via Escuela, resulting in three fatalities. Blowing sand and low visibility were identified as contributing factors. Two northbound drivers had slowed down due to the poor visibility, but the third vehicle failed to do so, leading to a rear-end collision and subsequent crash. The driver and two rear-seat passengers of one vehicle succumbed to their injuries, while occupants of the other vehicles sustained minor to moderate injuries .
Ongoing Safety Concerns and Infrastructure Improvements
In response to these incidents, local authorities have been working on infrastructure improvements to enhance safety on Gene Autry Trail. For instance, a $14 million rehabilitation project managed by Caltrans began in mid-January 2025, involving repaving an approximately 8-mile stretch of State Route 111 (SR 111), including Gene Autry Trail, from Golf Club Drive to West Gateway Drive. The work includes upgrading accessibility features, reconstructing 11 Sunline bus bays, and adding new bus pads at existing stops .