NYC Parks Releases Plan to Keep New Yorkers Cool this Summer

It's officially summer, which guarantees one thing: hot, hot weather. In some areas, the heat can be almost unbearable and with the new regulations at NYC beaches and risks of taking public transportation, cooling off at the beach or pool may not always be an option for you. Luckily, New York City has a plan to help people chill out (literally). Cool It! NYC is a plan to help keep New York City residents cooler and safer outside. By researching city neighborhoods that face the dangers of high heat, NYC officials can place cooling elements, like water fountains, splash pads, spray showers, and trees, in areas where they are needed most.

Cool It! NYC is using the New York City Heat Vulnerability Index, or HVI, to determine which neighborhoods are at a higher risk for extreme heat. NYC Health and Columbia University formed HVI to update the city’s capabilities for measuring extreme heat. Once hot spots are identified, New York City officials can either directly implement change in the area or direct citizens to different areas in the community. The City plans to add 250 new spray showers to help beat the heat. This will help city residents receive the tools they need to enjoy the summer sun while staying safe.

The city is also highlighting areas that have drinking fountains and places with tree cover. (There are more than 950 drinking fountains in the city for public use). Also, shade from trees can lower surface temperatures by up to 20 degrees. Simply sitting under a tree for a couple minutes can help prevent heat exhaustion during the summer.