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…