Mayor Malik D. Evans announces citywide Cool Sweep effort to provide relief from heatwave on July 14 and 15

Rochester, New York – With temperatures climbing and the summer heatwave showing no signs of slowing down, Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans has officially announced a Cool Sweep for Monday, July 14, and Tuesday, July 15, 2025. The move comes as the city braces for a stretch of sweltering weather, and city officials are encouraging residents to take advantage of local resources designed to provide relief from the extreme heat.

During these specially designated Cool Sweep days, residents will have access to a number of cooling options throughout Rochester, including air-conditioned R-Centers, water spray parks, select library branches, and swimming facilities. These spaces are open to the public as a refuge from high temperatures, giving people a safe and comfortable place to cool down.

“This is about protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents, especially our most vulnerable,” Mayor Evans stated. “We want everyone to know that there are places across the city where they can go to cool off and stay safe during this period of extreme heat.”

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Cooling Centers Offer Extended Relief

The City’s R-Centers will serve as key cooling hubs, opening their doors to the public during expanded weekday hours, typically from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Locations include well-known community spots like Adams Street, Avenue D, Carter Street, David F. Gantt, Edgerton, Frederick Douglass, Trenton and Pamela Jackson, and Willie Walker Lightfoot R-Centers. The Rochester Community Sports Complex will also operate with extended hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

These facilities offer not just relief from the heat but also opportunities for recreation and socializing in a safe, climate-controlled environment.

Spray Parks and Water Features to Stay Open Daily

In addition to the R-Centers, the city’s popular spray parks and spray features will remain open throughout the Cool Sweep period, operating daily from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Locations include Carter Street, Edgerton, David F. Gantt, Thomas P. Ryan, Roxie Ann Sinkler, Hope, and Humboldt R-Centers.

For families looking for outdoor fun, the city also maintains spray features at Fourth and Peck Playground and Troup Street Park. These water attractions provide a fun and refreshing break from the sun for children and adults alike.

Limited Swimming Options Available

Swimming facilities offer another avenue for cooling down, though with some limitations during this period. While Durand Eastman Beach at 1342 Lakeshore Blvd. is typically a favored summer destination, it will be closed on July 14. Residents can still check current water conditions and beach status by calling the Monroe County Beach Information Line at (585) 753-5887.

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For indoor swimming, the Adams Street R-Center Pool and the Trenton and Pamela Jackson R-Center Pool will be open daily from 12 noon to 6 p.m., providing accessible, supervised environments for swimming during the hottest part of the day.

Libraries Also Available for Cooling

Several library branches across Rochester will also serve as cooling centers during their regular hours of operation. These include the Arnett Branch, Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County, Charlotte Branch, Frederick Douglass Community Library, Lincoln Branch, Lyell Branch, Maplewood Community Library, Monroe Branch, Phillis Wheatley Community Library, Sully Branch, and Winton Branch. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead to verify hours.

These locations not only provide air-conditioned environments but also offer opportunities to read, study, and use public computers—making them a valuable resource during the heatwave.

Health and Safety Encouraged

City officials are reminding everyone to take necessary precautions during these high-temperature days. Residents should stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak sun hours, and make sure to check in on elderly family members and neighbors who may be particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Pets should not be forgotten either—access to fresh water and shaded areas is vital for their safety as well.

“This is about protecting the health and wellbeing of our residents, especially our most vulnerable,” Mayor Evans emphasized again. “We want everyone to know that there are places across the city where they can go to cool off and stay safe during this period of extreme heat.”

More details, including addresses and phone numbers for the various facilities, can be found on the city’s official website. As the hot weather continues, Rochester’s proactive efforts show a clear commitment to keeping its community safe, cool, and cared for.