Expanded Cooling Centers, Outreach Efforts, and Community Partnerships Aim to Reduce Heat-Related Risks
Phoenix is taking proactive steps to combat the extreme summer heat. At this week’s City Council Policy Session, officials introduced the 2025 Heat Response Plan, a comprehensive strategy designed to protect residents, especially those most vulnerable to rising temperatures.
With expanded cooling centers, extended hours, and stronger community partnerships, the city is determined to reduce heat-related emergencies this summer.
A Summer Unlike Any Other
Last year, Phoenix endured an unprecedented heat wave, with 113 consecutive days above 100 degrees and a record-breaking 70 days exceeding 110 degrees.
Despite these challenges, city-led initiatives contributed to a 20% decrease in heat-related 911 calls and the first decline in heat-related deaths in a decade. This year’s plan builds on those successes with a more expansive approach.
24/7 Cooling Centers and Extended Respite Hours
To provide accessible relief from extreme temperatures, Phoenix will open a new, 24-hour cooling center at 20 W. Jackson Street. This site is centrally located near public transit and will offer navigation services to help individuals experiencing homelessness access resources and shelter.
Additionally, three city libraries—Cholla, Harmon, and Yucca—will extend their operating hours until 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 10 p.m. on Sundays. These locations will provide water, cooling supplies, and full library services during all operational hours.
2025 Cooling and Respite Center Overview
| Location | Hours of Operation | Services Offered |
|---|---|---|
| 20 W. Jackson St. | 24/7 | Cooling, shelter navigation, water, supplies |
| Cholla Library | Mon-Sat: 10 AM-10 PM | |
| Sun: 12 PM-10 PM | Cooling, library services, water, supplies | |
| Harmon Library | Mon-Sat: 10 AM-10 PM | |
| Sun: 12 PM-10 PM | Cooling, library services, water, supplies | |
| Yucca Library | Mon-Sat: 10 AM-10 PM | |
| Sun: 12 PM-10 PM | Cooling, library services, water, supplies |
Community Partnerships for Heat Safety
Recognizing the importance of collaboration, the city has partnered with the American Red Cross to conduct outreach in mobile home communities, providing heat safety education and resources.
Additionally, the Parks and Recreation Department and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will station volunteers at popular trailheads—including Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, and South Mountain—every Saturday from May 1 to September 30.
Volunteers will distribute water and educate hikers about heat risks.
A United Front Against Extreme Heat
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego emphasized the city’s commitment to saving lives, stating,
“Extreme heat is a public health emergency, and Phoenix is leading the way in protecting our residents. We know that expanding cooling centers and outreach efforts makes a difference.”
City officials are now fine-tuning the plan based on council feedback, with a final version set to take effect May 1.
As temperatures continue to rise, Phoenix remains dedicated to implementing innovative and effective strategies to keep residents safe.
For a full list of cooling centers and additional heat relief resources, visit phoenix.gov/heat.
Sources: City of Phoenix.
