Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Lawler and Marilyn Strickland introduced the Cool Corridors Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation aims to reduce extreme heat in urban areas by investing in tree canopies and shade infrastructure along transit corridors, sidewalks, bus stops, school zones, and underserved neighborhoods.
Congressman Mike Lawler emphasized the importance of this bill for the Lower Hudson Valley. “In the Lower Hudson Valley, extreme heat causes serious damage to our roads, sidewalks, and public spaces,” he said. “This bill will cool down our streets and transit corridors.”
Congresswoman Strickland highlighted the need for communities to remain livable as temperatures rise. “As temperatures climb and heatwaves become more severe,” she stated, “we must ensure our communities are equipped to stay cool.”
Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser from Trust for Public Land expressed support for reauthorizing the Healthy Streets Program. She noted that access to nature is essential for cleaner air and improved health outcomes.
Joel Pannell of American Forests described extreme heat as a significant weather-related hazard in the U.S., emphasizing trees as an effective defense. He praised Representatives Strickland and Lawler’s leadership on this issue.
The Cool Corridors Act also seeks to improve public health by addressing urban heat islands while promoting local workforce development through job training in urban forestry.
Additionally, it calls for interagency coordination across several federal departments including Transportation and Energy.
House cosponsors include several representatives from various states who support this initiative aimed at creating safer neighborhoods through strategic investments in shade infrastructure.
