As part of the 2026 Heat Response Plan, Cholla Library will once again serve as a Cooling Center over the summer months by offering extended hours (photo by Kathryn M. Miller).
On Tuesday, Feb. 24, the mayor and city council approved the 2026 Heat Response Plan as a part of the city of Phoenix’s continued heat relief efforts.
Last summer, confirmed heat-related deaths in Maricopa County were approximately 30 percent lower than reported for 2024, marking the second consecutive year of declines. The Phoenix Fire Department saw a reduction in the severity of heat-related illnesses and deaths this season. Although 911 heat-related calls remained high, fewer cases required significant resources.
As part of the 2026 Plan, the city will continue to operate a 24/7 respite center at 20 W. Jackson Street. Additionally, Phoenix will partner with Justa Center, 1001 W. Jefferson St., who will offer cooling center hours from 3-9 p.m. Both locations are within the Downtown Phoenix areas where there were increased 911 calls. The sites also will offer a cool space for residents as well as navigation services to connect people experiencing homelessness with resources, and transportation to shelter or other services as needed.
The city will offer extended hours at Cholla Library, 10050 N. Metro Parkway East, until 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-9 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. This location will offer full library services during extended hours.
The city will partner with UMOM New Day Centers on a referral basis for families who visit one of the extended hour or 24-hour locations to provide heat respite and connections to resources and services for families with minor children experiencing homelessness seven days per week.
The 2026 Plan also includes a partnership with other organizations and departments to help raise awareness about heat. The American Red Cross will perform outreach in mobile home and senior communities to provide safety information and resources.
Park Stewards and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will conduct outreach at select trailheads throughout the summer. Volunteers will be stationed at Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, and South Mountain every Saturday from May 1 to Sept. 30, between 7 and 10 a.m., providing heat safety education and cold water to trail users.
The city will execute its Heat Response Programs and Services beginning May 1. Learn more at www.phoenix.gov/administration/departments/heat.html.
