Although there is plenty of uncertainty surrounding summer 2020, one thing is for sure: It's going to get hot in NYC.
In attempts to keep families comfortable—and safe—this year, Mayor Bill de Blasio has revealed plans for the expanded Cool It! NYC program, which will ensure heat relief while public pools remain shuttered.
“This summer will be unlike any other in New York City history, and we're focused on safety first,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said. “From spray showers to misters to fire hydrants, we’re getting creative with how our families can stay cool during periods of extreme heat.”
Join us at City Hall for some updates. https://t.co/YckUxq9JDs
— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) June 24, 2020
According to the mayor's June 24 press meeting, the city's 950 cooling elements (sprinklers, spray showers and mists) will reopen (find one near you online) and 250 new elements will be added to areas most in need, which are determined by the NYC Heat Vulnerability Index (HVI). Additionally, the DEP and FDNY will install spray caps on 320 hydrants in neighborhoods most in need during heat advisories.
And perhaps we can hold out hope for public pools. Mayor de Blasio stated earlier this month that the city is revisiting the idea of reopening public pools, though no plans have been finalized. But New Yorkers can head to the beach: NYC beaches will reopen for swimming on July 1, but visitors should expect quite a few new rules in place.
Stay cool and safe, NYC.
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