SHREVEPORT, La. — As temperatures rise across Northwest Louisiana, the City of Shreveport and Shreveport Public Assembly & Recreation are opening cooling centers at five recreation centers throughout the city to provide residents with a safe and comfortable place to escape the heat.
Cooling centers will be available during normal operating hours, which are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Each location will feature a designated cooling area with chairs and complimentary water where residents can rest, rehydrate, and cool off.
The cooling center locations include:
Valencia Recreation Center, 1800 Viking Drive
David Raines Recreation Center, 2920 Round Grove Lane
Bilberry Recreation Center, 1902 Alabama Street
Airport Park Recreation Center, 6500 Kennedy Drive
Bill Cockrell Recreation Center, 4109 Pines Road
"Periods of extreme heat can pose serious health risks, particularly for seniors, young children, and those with underlying medical conditions," said Mayor Tom Arceneaux. "These cooling centers provide residents with a safe place to seek relief from the heat, stay hydrated, and protect their health during the hottest days of the summer."
"SPAR's recreation centers are community gathering places year-round, and we're proud to open our doors as cooling centers for those who need them," said SPAR Director Shelly Ragle. "Whether someone needs a few minutes to cool down or simply a place to rest and rehydrate, our staff is ready to welcome them."
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon temperatures, and check on family members, neighbors, and friends who may be vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. More information about SPAR programs and facilities is available on the SPAR website at www.myspar.org.