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Use cool trail materials (i.e., reflective and permeable pavements)

Details

Cool trail materials, including reflective and permeable pavements, can lower ambient temperatures for people walking or biking.

Capital Cost

Moderate

Operations & Maintenance

Moderate – regular inspections to identify any damage as well as reapplication of coatings and vacuuming of permeable pavements as needed

Effectiveness

Moderate – cool trail materials absorb less solar energy than conventional pavement. Permeable pavements are naturally cooled through moisture evaporation.

Flexibility

Moderate – once materials are installed, removal is costly; however, additional installations can be scaled

Barriers to Implementation

Cost; scale

Equity

Ensure that cool trail materials are installed based on greatest need and across equity areas.

References