Iconic gateway built for Temecula Wine Country

The new Temecula Wine Country gateway arch now rises boldly over Rancho California Road, a striking 75‑foot-wide landmark that our Riverside County Transportation Department crews installed in just two overnight shifts.
Anchored by a 34‑foot‑deep concrete foundation, the steel arch — accented with aluminum decorative elements — took more than five months to fabricate before making its dramatic debut. Now, drivers pass beneath a structure that doesn’t just mark the entrance to Wine Country — it frames it with purpose.
“The Temecula Valley Wine Country and its many award‑winning wineries is a major tourism draw for the county. The installation of the archway monument across Rancho California Road will create an improved and inviting gateway to the Temecula Valley Wine Country,” said Riverside County Transportation Director Dennis Acuna.
Planning Department oversight of March Area Plan finalized

In November, the Planning Department assumed land use authority over approximately 3,600 acres of the March Joint Powers Authority territory, marking a significant milestone in the region’s planning evolution. This transition follows the March JPA’s 2024 decision to relinquish governance over a large portion of its area, originally formed in 1993 to oversee the reuse of the realigned March Air Force Base.
The newly adopted March Area Plan integrates the March JPA’s 1999 General Plan and development standards into the County’s planning framework. It preserves existing land use designations while aligning with Riverside County’s permitting processes. The March Area Plan outlines a vision for a balanced mix of industrial, commercial, residential, and open space uses, with a strong emphasis on economic development, sustainability, and mobility.
“Assuming land use authority for the March Area Plan allows the County to carry forward a strong foundation while guiding future development that reflects our regional goals,” said Planning Director John Hildebrand. “We’re committed to ensuring a smooth transition that supports economic opportunity and long-term community investment.”
Key features of the plan include:
· Land use designations for business parks, industrial zones, mixed-use areas, and public facilities.
· Specific Plans such as the March Business Center and March Lifecare Campus.
· Transportation Improvements to support projected growth, including road widening, interchange upgrades, and a proposed multimodal transit center.
· Environmental stewardship, including habitat preservation, cultural resource protection, and sustainable infrastructure planning.
While the Planning Department will oversee land use and development, the March JPA will continue managing airport operations and redevelopment successor agency responsibilities. This transition ensures continuity while positioning the March Area Plan territory for long-term growth and regional integration.
Carver Tract neighborhood sees renewal through County collaboration
Carver Tract in Palm Desert celebrated a major milestone this month as Transportation and Code Enforcement teams joined local volunteers to clean up the neighborhood and pave new sidewalks, giving families and students safer routes to and from school. Burrtec supported the effort by hauling away trash, tires, and discarded appliances, helping restore pride in the community.
To mark the occasion, residents gathered for a ribbon cutting complete with tacos, a jumper for the kids, and plenty of smiles. Supervisor V. Manuel Perez joined the celebration and appears in the video highlighting the strong community turnout. Also featured are heartfelt messages from Carver Tract residents, insights from Transportation staff about the improvement process, and reflections from Code Enforcement on the clean-up work that made this project possible.
Aviation division receives $1.35 million for infrastructure and safety improvements
 A fresh look at one of Riverside County’s airports now undergoing major upgrades made possible by a new improvement grant.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced the fifth and final installment of Airport Infrastructure Grant allocations for Fiscal Year 2026 under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Riverside County airports will receive a total of $1.35 million in federal grant funding to support ongoing infrastructure and safety improvements across the County-owned airport system.
The funding will be distributed as follows:
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Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport: $675,000
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French Valley Airport: $285,000
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Hemet-Ryan Airport: $285,000
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Blythe Airport: $109,000
This is the final year of IIJA funding through the Airport Infrastructure Grant program, which has delivered significant federal investment into airport facilities nationwide since its launch in 2021.
GIS Day brings services to life

GIS Day on Nov. 19 was a great success, drawing in staff and community members to celebrate the vital role that geographic information systems play in public service. Held at the County Administration Center, the event featured engaging information booths from a variety of County departments, including Transportation and Survey.
Each booth highlighted how mapping tools and location-based technologies are used to improve services, support decision-making, and enhance the quality of life for Riverside County residents.
From emergency response planning to environmental monitoring and public works, GIS is at the heart of many innovative solutions that help us better understand and serve our communities. Attendees had the opportunity to explore interactive maps, learn about real-world applications of GIS, and connect with the teams behind the technology.
TLMA celebrated Veterans Day with Brian White from Code Enforcement

TLMA proudly celebrated Veterans Day in November by honoring the brave individuals who have served our country. We extend our deepest gratitude to all veterans for their service, sacrifice, and dedication.
This year, we were especially proud to highlight one of our own: Brian White, a valued member of the Code Enforcement team and a proud U.S. Navy veteran. Brian shared his personal story, reflecting on the powerful parallels between serving in the military and serving our communities.
Brian says in both roles, it’s about commitment, teamwork, and making a difference whether in uniform or working in public service. He strives to be a part of something bigger than himself.
His words remind us that the spirit of service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off—it continues in the work we do every day to support and strengthen our communities.
Thank you, Brian, and thank you to all who have served. We honor you today and every day.
734 tires collected for a cleaner Anza

Our Code Enforcement team was hard at work during the Anza Tire Collection Event on October 11, helping residents properly dispose of 734 waste tires and keeping our community clean.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by and did their part to protect our beautiful community!
Transportation Department 2025 performance measures: improved sidewalks, streets and infrastructure
Do you need help navigating the building permit process? We're here to help.
TLMA's Permit Process Advisors (PPAs) are dedicated to guiding customers through the often-complex permitting process for their projects.
Our Permit Process Advisors help residents, and "Mom-and-Pop" small business owners through the permitting process from start to finish. The most requested permits by our customers include the installation of manufactured homes or single-family dwellings, ADUs, pools, patios, BBQ islands, room additions, detached garages, barns, and sheds.
Permit Process Advisors will help connect customers with the right departments within TLMA to get their projects completed.
To better serve people, each Permit Process Advisor is assigned to specific supervisorial districts but they work as a team to share knowledge and come up with solutions to help solve common customer challenges.
To reach out for services, visit rctlma.org/ppa.
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