Phoenix Expands Cooling Centers as Measles Activity Continues and VA Upgrades Advance
Phoenix, AZ – March 10, 2026 – Phoenix officials expanded cooling center hours as measles cases remain on CDC’s 2026 list and VA upgrades move ahead.
Phoenix leaders have approved an expanded 2026 Heat Response Plan, increasing access to cooling spaces across the city as regional health systems continue tracking measles activity and major upgrades move forward at the Phoenix VA Health Care System.
Cooling Center Access Expanded for 2026
The City of Phoenix unveiled its updated heat response strategy in late February, adding longer hours at selected library locations and establishing a 24/7 cooling center downtown during peak heat periods. The plan also outlines targeted outreach for residents at higher risk during extreme temperatures, including people experiencing homelessness, older adults, and those in mobile-home communities.
City officials reported that hundreds of heat-related deaths were recorded in Maricopa County last year, underscoring the strain extreme heat places on emergency departments and urgent care centers each summer.
CDC Lists Arizona in 2026 Measles Activity
Nationally, measles cases remain elevated. In its February 27 update, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,136 confirmed measles cases in the United States in 2026 as of February 26, with most linked to outbreaks. Arizona is among the jurisdictions reporting cases this year.
Local health departments in Maricopa County continue publishing guidance for healthcare providers and residents when exposures are identified. Measles spreads through the air and can be especially disruptive in schools, childcare settings, and healthcare facilities when cases occur.
Phoenix VA Begins Facility Modernization Projects
The Phoenix VA Health Care System announced February 26 that it has begun a series of infrastructure upgrades aimed at supporting patient care. Projects include expanding and renovating laboratory space, modernizing the operating suite, renovating pharmacy areas, upgrading HVAC systems in multiple buildings, and renovating an infusion clinic.
VA officials said the first-quarter fiscal year 2026 work is designed to improve safety and efficiency as demand for veteran healthcare services continues.
What Residents Should Know
Phoenix residents can review cooling center locations and hours through the city’s heat response resources as temperatures rise. Families may check vaccination records and follow updates from Maricopa County public health regarding measles activity. Veterans with upcoming appointments at the Phoenix VA campus may see ongoing construction as facility projects move forward.
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
