Cool Corridors Action Guide

Summers are hotter than any recorded, and more people suffer from heat illnesses. Already causing 12,000 to 14,000 deaths annually, extreme heat is by far the nation’s deadliest weather disaster. And Duke University researchers predict the national death toll could reach 100,000 by the end of this century.

About This Action Guide

A cool corridors strategy aims to keep its most vulnerable residents cool(er) as they go about their daily lives — taking the bus, shopping and walking to church or school.

One critical component: site-specific solutions to extreme heat that center on planting trees on paved areas (e.g., schoolyards and parking lots) complemented by building shade structures. 

Learn about how to implement a cool corridors strategy in the six sections below. 

Step One: Heat and Mobility

Empty parking lot. No trees. Hot sun.
This section describes the role cool corridors can play to protect against heat-related illnesses and support public transit, micro-mobility and “complete streets” initiatives.
Step One

Step Two: Recruit Key Partners

Woman interviewing Detroit resident about neighborhood trees
This section describes the agencies, research institutions and people who can guide a plan through implementation.
Step Two

Step Three: Select Target Neighborhoods

Heat wave in Philadelpia.
Because the need will always outstrip resources, this section describes how to set priorities for your investment in cool corridors.
Step Three

Step Four: Set Objectives, Define Success

Trees line streets in middle income neighborhood.
Cities almost always stage significant investments like cool corridors. Rigorous priority setting can help determine where to start and how future investments can be directed.
Step Four

Step Five: Act With, Not for People

Participants in Detroit tree planting event discuss progress.
Planning doesn't just depend on hearing from people. Residents must have a seat at the table, and planners should listen and act on what they have to say.
Step Five

Step Six: Post-Planting Imperatives

People touring neighborhood to see where cool corridors might go
Once trees are in the ground, they require frequent care to assure their survival, and regular maintenance to protect their health.
Step Six
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Related Resources

  • Guides

Cool Corridors Action Guide
  • Guides

Tree Equity Funding Action Guide
Resource Library 

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