Washingtoner - Spokane: Cooling Resources Available During Heat Wave

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~ As temperatures continue to soar in Spokane, the City has taken action to provide relief for its residents. On Friday, Communications Director Erin Hut and Communications Manager Brian Walker announced that the City has added a free evening swim option at three pools for this Saturday only. In addition, they have expanded library hours at select locations over the weekend.

According to Spokane Municipal Code, cooling spaces must be activated when the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts temperatures of 95 degrees or higher for two consecutive days. In anticipation of the heat wave, the City has purchased pallets of water to be distributed at library cooling centers, outreach teams, and shelters.

For those seeking relief from the heat, there are several options available. The Spokane Public Library locations and Trent Resource and Assistance Center (TRAC) are designated as cooling areas. The libraries will be open during regular hours on weekdays and select locations will have extended hours over the weekend. Liberty Park will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, while Liberty Park, Indian Trail, and Central will have extended hours on Sunday.

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TRAC, located at 4320 E. Trent Ave., offers industrial fans, meals, hydration resources, and snacks for those seeking shelter during heat waves. They also provide comprehensive wrap-around services for those in need. Donations of water and Gatorade/Powerade are being accepted at TRAC.

Jewels Helping Hands will also have a cooling tent set up in front of House of Charity on Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donations of fruit, hydration packets, and water can be dropped off at the tent or at their location on N Cedar Street.

For those using public transportation to access cooling areas, Spokane Transit Authority (STA) is offering fare exceptions when temperatures reach 95 degrees or above. Passengers who indicate they are traveling to a cooling space will be allowed to ride for free. This exception also applies for same-day return trips during evening hours, even if the temperature drops below 95 degrees. The Salvation Army is also offering transportation services to connect individuals with local shelters.

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Residents can also cool off at City pools and splash pads for free. All six City aquatic centers offer free open swimming from 1-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and rotating evening swim sessions from 6-8:30 p.m. On Saturday, an additional free evening swim will be available at A.M. Cannon, Comstock, and Hillyard pools.

Looking towards the future, the City of Spokane is part of a collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) called the Spokane Climate Resilience Project. This project will provide $19.9 million in Community Change grant funding to support disadvantaged communities through environmental and climate justice work. Of this award, $8 million will be designated to the City and Spokane Public Library to add infrastructure to City-owned facilities in order to serve as Community Resilience Hubs during extreme weather events.

As temperatures continue to rise, the City of Spokane is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. With cooling areas, extended library hours, and free swimming options available, residents are encouraged to take advantage of these resources during this heat wave.

Filed Under: Government, City

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