Palm Springs, CA

As desert temperatures begin to climb into triple digits, the City of Palm Springs has activated its seasonal Cooling Centers program to help residents stay safe during extreme heat conditions. The centers will open whenever temperatures reach 100 degrees or higher and will remain available through the end of September.

City officials say the program is designed to provide a safe, air-conditioned environment for residents, particularly seniors, families, and those without reliable access to cooling at home.

Two primary locations will serve as Cooling Centers:

• James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center, located at 480 W. Tramview Road, is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  
• Palm Springs Public Library (Temporary Location at Rimrock Plaza), located at 4721 E. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite A, operates Monday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The library is closed on Sundays.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of these facilities during periods of extreme heat. Pets are also permitted at both locations, with the requirement that dogs remain on a leash and cats be kept in carriers.

In addition to services for the general public, Martha’s Village and Kitchen will operate the Palm Springs Access Center at 225 El Cielo Road as a dedicated cooling space for unhoused individuals. The facility is open daily and offers a safe refuge from high temperatures. Individuals in need of overnight shelter will be transported to the Early Entry Facility located next to the Palm Springs Navigation Center.

City officials emphasize that extreme heat can pose serious health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and encourage residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

For more information about Cooling Center locations and services, residents can visit EngagePalmSprings.com.