Building Urban Heat Resilience Capacity in Arizona
GrantID: 1281
Grant Funding Amount Low: $42,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $65,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Urban Heat Resilience Program in Arizona
Arizona faces significant challenges related to extreme heat, a phenomenon expected to worsen due to climate change. With an average of over 110 days per year exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the state's urban areas, especially Phoenix, are increasingly vulnerable to heat-related health issues. The Arizona Department of Health Services reports that heat-related illnesses are rising, particularly among low-income communities who lack access to resources and sufficient support systems to mitigate heat exposure.
Residents in Arizona's urban neighborhoods, particularly those that are economically disadvantaged, face disproportionate risks associated with extreme heat. Limited access to air conditioning, green spaces, and other cooling mechanisms puts these populations at higher risk of experiencing heat stress. Furthermore, the urban heat island effect intensifies temperatures in metropolitan areas, compounding these disparities and highlighting the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies.
The Urban Heat Resilience Program aims to address these challenges by implementing cooling centers and developing green infrastructure within Arizona's cities. Funding from the grant will support the establishment of shaded areas, public cooling facilities, and community outreach programs that educate residents about heat safety. This initiative is designed specifically for urban areas that experience the sharpest increases in temperature, thereby aligning with the state's unique climatic and demographic dynamics.
The outcomes of this program are particularly critical for the health and well-being of Arizona's vulnerable populations. By prioritizing localized data collection, the project will ensure that heat resilience measures effectively target neighborhoods most affected by extreme temperatures. While neighboring states may also face heat challenges, Arizona's unique combination of urban density and heat exposure necessitates specific urban-focused strategies. This grant represents an essential investment in the long-term health of urban residents, enhancing adaptive capacity in the context of climate change and extreme weather events.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
