In response to increasing extreme heat and growing public health concerns across Tucson and Pima County, the City of Tucson Ward 6 Office announces the opening of the Ward 6 Chill Space on May 26, 2026, providing a free, low-barrier cooling and respite space for vulnerable community members during the summer heat season.
The Chill Space will operate Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Ward 6 Office, located at the southeast corner of the Ward 6 Office, and is expected to continue operations through as late as November 2026.
The program is designed to support unsheltered individuals, seniors, medically vulnerable residents, low-income households, individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges, LGBTQIA+ residents, and others lacking reliable access to cooling resources during dangerous heat conditions.
The Ward 6 Cooling Center is a free, low-barrier cooling and respite space designed to help Tucson residents safely escape dangerous summer heat while accessing hydration, rest, and supportive services.
The Cooling Center is located at the Ward 6 Office, in the southeast corner.
The center operates:
Sunday through Thursday
11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Beginning May 26, 2026
Continuing through approximately November 2026
The center will also operate on most federally recognized holidays.
The Cooling Center is open to adults seeking relief from extreme heat, including:
Unsheltered individuals
Housing insecure residents
Seniors
Medically vulnerable individuals
Low-income residents
Individuals experiencing behavioral health or substance use challenges
LGBTQIA+ community members
Individuals experiencing social isolation
No. Participants are not required to provide:
Identification
Insurance
Proof of residency
No. The Cooling Center operates under a low-barrier model. However, participants must follow safety and behavioral expectations while onsite.
Services may include:
Air-conditioned indoor space
Cold water, ice, and electrolyte packets
Snacks and food
Restrooms and showers
Seating and cots for rest
Basic first aid and heat illness monitoring
Housing and coordinated entry referrals
Medical and behavioral health referrals
Harm reduction resources
Hygiene and clothing supplies (as available)
Yes. Companion animals are permitted in designated outdoor shaded areas, provided they remain safely managed and leashed.
Yes. The location is within walking distance of Sun Tran Routes 3, 4, and 17.
The Cooling Center maintains a safe operational capacity of approximately 20 participants at one time. If the center reaches capacity, staff will help connect individuals to alternative cooling or respite resources whenever possible.
The Cooling Center is operated by trained Ward 6 staff, program coordinators, volunteers, and community partners experienced in:
Heat illness response
Trauma-informed care
Crisis intervention
Harm reduction
Outreach and case management
Community members interested in donating supplies or supporting the Cooling Center can contact:
victoria.devasto@tucsonaz.gov
paula.miller@tucsonaz.gov
Donations of hydration supplies, hygiene items, snacks, and cooling resources are especially appreciated.
Find a Cooling Center in Pima County using the Heat Relief Network map:Find a Cooling Center in Pima County