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Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopens after storm closure

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PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KGTV) - The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway reopened to visitors Monday after storm damage that closed the popular attraction for almost two months.

The Valentine’s Day storm severed the power feed to the mountain and washed out a road, according to tram officials. Crews spent weeks making necessary repairs and cleaning up damage.

The closure kept 100,000 visitors away, tram officials estimate. The storm led to almost $4 million in repair costs and lost revenues.

“It’s been a long six weeks for everyone, but today we are delighted to finally welcome back Tram visitors. On behalf of the entire Tramway staff, we are thrilled to be back open for business and truly appreciate the community’s support throughout our closure,” said Tramway General Manager Nancy Nichols.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is the world’s largest rotating tram car, opened in 1963. Its 80-passenger cars take travelers from the desert floor to the Mountain Station at an elevation of 8,516 feet in 10 minutes.

Visitors can enjoy two restaurants, a natural history museum, documentary theaters, and hiking trails at the top.

The tram opens at 10 a.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Tickets are $25.95 for adults and $16.95 for children ages 3 to 10. Ticket sales start at the station half an hour before opening. Visitors can also buy tickets online starting April 8.