Rooted in Community
Cool the City is a community-powered effort to expand tree canopy, reduce extreme heat and flooding, and build healthier neighborhoods across Richmond.
The heart of this work is rooted in love for this city and its people. Hear directly from neighbors and partners about why this movement matters and how cooler streets can create stronger, healthier communities.
THE REALITY WE'RE FACING
It's up to 16 degrees hotter in certain neighborhoods in the East End and Southside. Those same neighborhoods are also greatly impacted by flooding. While over 40% of Richmond is covered by tree canopy, access to green space and the benefits trees provide are not evenly shared, especially in the Southside and East End. Our neighbors are dealing with extreme weather in ways that put their health and livelihoods at risk. Here’s how it’s affecting our health:
Southside has double the asthma rates of other areas — directly tied to housing conditions and pollution.
Lower lIFE EXPECTANCY
Life expectancy in Southside is up to 20 years shorter than in other parts of the city.
Poor Air Quality
Families with lower incomes are more likely to live near industrial zones, highways, and areas with poor air quality.
Asthma Rates Doubled
Southside has double the asthma rates of other areas — directly tied to housing conditions and pollution.
Fewer trees = more heat
Neighborhoods with more shade can be 16 degrees cooler than neighborhoods that lack adequate tree cover.
Unequal heat emergencies
Residents with less access to shade and cooling centers experience higher spikes in heat-related illnesses and ER visits.
How We’re Helping
Our mission is simple: Equip community members with the tools, knowledge, and support to take action against extreme heat and flooding right where they live.
We're building tomorrow's workforce, planting trees, and increasing our community's power to drive lasting change. This is about creating the conditions for every family to thrive.
Our work focuses on four key areas that can make a real impact:
Lowering Temperatures
We’re planting and maintaining trees alongside community volunteers to cool the streets in Richmond's hottest neighborhoods.
Improving Health
We’re prioritizing the care and expansion of green spaces and community resources in areas with poor air quality.
Building Community Wealth
We’re creating workforce development opportunities, certifying urban agriculture professionals, and engaging faith-based organizations as partners in change.
Strengthening Community
We’re building our city's capacity to withstand extreme weather with green infrastructure that better supports families and makes our communities safer.
Get Involved
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Get Involved
Get Involved ⦁ Get Involved
Volunteer
Join us at an upcoming tree-planting, maintenance day, or community garden event. No experience is required — just a willingness to get your hands dirty and be part of the solution.
LEARN
From community forums and outdoor learning classrooms to climate connectors and neighborhood gatherings, join us for an opportunity to learn about green solutions, meet new people, and build community.
WHO WE ARE
Cool the City is a collaborative effort among residents, community organizations, and the City of Richmond to create greener, healthier futures where they are needed most.
We're not waiting for change — we're making it happen, together.
Stay engaged
A movement is only as powerful as the people behind it. Stay connected and help Cool the City grow.