Future Research 04 Optimizing for A More Equitable Cool Corridor Planning

The current methods of identifying priority areas for tree planting within underserved communities require a degree of refinement. For instance, certain analytical frameworks (e.g., the tree equity score by American Forests) need a more explicit definition of how the tree canopy target is computed for designated areas. Furthermore, in certain locations such as Phoenix’s central city south, existing tree equity analysis holds little value since the entire region is almost equally deficient in terms of tree shade coverage. Instead, the real question is how to leverage limited resources in order to equally distribute and maximize the benefits derived from government-led initiatives like the cool corridor program.

In light of this, the City of Phoenix is formulating its own unique method for analyzing cool corridor prioritization, as depicted in the left image. The upcoming urban design studio can facilitate the city in carrying out a more thorough analysis, optimization, and evaluation of cool corridor planning for underserved communities.

Top: Cool corridor prioritization analysis framework developed by the City of Phoenix;Source: Phoenix Cool Corridors Program: https://www. phoenix.gov/streets/coolcorridors

The final review

Source: Chenhao Zhu