Boyle Heights will use $1 million for cooling measures

California Construction News staff writer

One  million federal dollars have been committed to the Boyle Heights Community Cooling Project, which will include cool pavement coats and new trees to lower ambient temperatures and address heat related illness and death.

“Rising temperatures put our most vulnerable Angelenos at extreme risk, and demand solutions to protect their health and well-being,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. “Communities on the frontline of the climate crisis are our top priority when it comes to solutions to curb the climate crisis, and thanks to the support of Congressman Gomez, this program will bring real relief to the people of Boyle Heights.”

Cool pavement decreases surface temperatures by up to 10 degrees compared to traditional pavement. The City of Los Angeles now has approximately 75 lane miles of cool pavement and plans to install another 175 lane miles by 2028 – prioritizing Los the cities hottest residential areas.

“I am thrilled to announce $1 million in federal funding to install cooling elements on our local streets in Boyle Heights and to improve urban greening, pedestrian safety, and public health in this beloved neighborhood,” said Congressman Jimmy Gomez.

“This project is a matter of racial justice and equity – and by targeting resources to communities disproportionately impacted by climate change, we ensure our residents are safer and equipped with the green infrastructure they need to combat rising temperatures.”