In response to the impending high temperatures in Cleveland, measures to provide reprieve for residents from the heat have been announced by the city's Department of Public Works. The City of Cleveland is extending hours for several recreation centers to function as cooling centers, as reported by a recent press release. These are set to be open from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. today, July 24, and Friday, July 25.
Locations for the cooling centers include Zelma George, Collinwood, Gunning, Kovacic, Michael Zone, and Frederick Douglass Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Centers. Apart from offering a place to cool down, each site will provide filtered water fountains and designated comfort areas for residents. Additionally, amid the heatwave, playground programs and youth outdoor sports have been cancelled, demonstrating an emphasis on safety over routine activities.
The city is also ensuring the nutritional needs of younger residents are met. Free lunch meals will be available for individuals 18 and under from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, at all recreation centers. On days when temperatures soar to 80 degrees or above, spray parks and basins will be operational to provide alternative cooling options for the public.
While outdoor playground activities are on hold, the city's outdoor pools remain a viable option for relief from the heat, opening from Wednesday to Sunday between 12:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Select indoor pools will also be available on a scheduled basis. The city encourages residents to utilize these free services, including an array of summer programs ranging from arts to sports, and wellness initiatives to career readiness opportunities. For up-to-date information regarding the cooling centers and other related services, residents can follow the City of Cleveland's social media channels or contact their local Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center directly.
