Salton City, Census-designated place on the Salton Sea shore, Imperial County, California
Salton City is a residential community in the desert of Imperial County, spread across flat terrain and structured by wide, straight streets. The settlement follows a planned layout with Marina Drive as the main thoroughfare winding through the neighborhood.
The settlement was founded in 1958 when the M. Penn Phillips Company began work on an ambitious residential project. Growth proceeded slower than expected, and many of the original infrastructure plans were completed or adapted over later decades.
The Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians operate a casino in the area, contributing to local entertainment and economic development in the region.
The location sits in a desert region with extreme temperatures and requires good preparation for visits during the hottest months. Water and shade are important, and the streets are easy to navigate since they are arranged in a regular grid.
The area sits below sea level in an unusual location for a residential community. This setting makes the place notable for bird watching, as thousands of birds gather at the nearby Salton Sea.
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