EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — As temperatures climb across El Paso, concerns about heat exposure at local playgrounds are drawing renewed attention to the city’s efforts to expand shade coverage at public parks.
The issue is especially noticeable during the summer months, when playground equipment made of metal, plastic, and other materials can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air temperature when exposed to direct sunlight. Areas under shade structures generally remain cooler, helping reduce the risk of burns and heat-related illnesses.
In 2018, the City of El Paso adopted an ordinance requiring shade structures at qualifying playgrounds.
The policy was intended to improve safety and comfort for families using public parks during periods of extreme heat.
According to information previously provided by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, El Paso has approximately 330 parks, with about 200 containing playgrounds.
Of those playgrounds, just over 100 currently have shade structures.
City officials announced that eight additional shade canopy installations have been completed using funding approved by voters through the 2022 Community Progress Bond.
The projects were part of the first phase of the city’s park improvement efforts.
The Parks and Recreation Department also says it is beginning installation of eight more shade canopies using the remaining funding allocated for Phase One.
The city has identified several parks that are scheduled to receive the upgrades in the coming months.
Many parents and park visitors say the improvements are welcome but believe additional shade is still needed.
“It’s really hot here compared to a lot of other places,” one parent said. “I think it’s important right now for the kids, especially since they’re out of school.”
Another visitor said his family spent only a short time at the playground before deciding to leave because of the heat.
Others expressed concerns about limited shaded areas and the amount of exposed metal equipment at some parks.
While the city continues working to expand shade coverage, officials say the additional canopy projects represent another step toward improving playground safety and accessibility during El Paso’s hottest months.
Eight more parks are expected to receive shade canopies through the remaining Phase One bond funding, though the city has not announced completion dates for all of the projects.
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