Undergrounding Project

Bury the Utility lines

Benefits

Safety - Fire Prevention
Beauty - Improve the view
Value - Property values increase

Letter to Our Neighbors

Hello Neighbors,

One of the key initiatives the RCENO board is working on in the coming year is the undergrounding of utility lines. This has taken on much more urgency after the devastating fires in LA, of which at least one was caused by power lines. The good news is the City of Palm Springs has put in place an ordinance that allows neighborhoods to underground their lines. Read more about Public Utilities Commission—Rule 20 >>

The challenge is that this is a complicated process and there are some significant hurdles to overcome if we want to move forward. Myself and some of the board members are educating ourselves and are having an active dialogue with the city on this topic. Our friends at Old Las Palmas are much farther along and will be having a kick off meeting for their undergrounding efforts later this month. They have invited anyone who wants to learn more about this process to attend on April 23, 2025. RSVP for the “Kick-Off” Town Hall >>

Finally, we are looking for folks to join the Racket Club Undergrounding subcommittee to help us move this forward for our neighborhood. If you are interested please reach out to us at: rcenorg@gmail.com.

Thank you!

Cameron Saless
Chair, Racquet Club Estates Neighborhood Organization Board of Advisors

FAQs

Most of the cost is covered by a 30 year bond which is paid through an increase in property taxes.
Enhanced Safety
- Underground power lines eliminate the risk of downed live wires from storms, car accidents, or fallen trees.
- In wildfire-prone areas like Palm Springs, undergrounding can significantly reduce fire ignition risk, helping protect homes and lives.
- Especially important for families, seniors, and anyone concerned about emergency access and evacuation.
Fewer Power Outages
- Underground systems are far less susceptible to outages from storms, wind, or equipment failure.
- That means less disruption to your daily life, fewer spoiled groceries, and less risk to vital systems like air conditioning during extreme heat.
Increased Property Value
- Studies show undergrounding can increase home values by up to 10%, particularly in areas where views and aesthetics are a major selling point.
- Buyers prefer clean streetscapes with no poles or wires obstructing mountain or desert views.
Quieter and More Peaceful
- No humming transformers or buzzing wires near your yard or bedroom window.
- Fewer utility trucks blocking the street for repairs or maintenance.
Long-Term Cost Benefits
- While undergrounding requires upfront investment, it saves money over time through reduced maintenance, fewer emergency repairs, and potential insurance savings.
- Some property owners may also benefit from lower energy losses due to improved infrastructure efficiency.