The Living Network Proposes interconnected adaptive cooling centers in NYC that function as both daily community spaces and emergency response facilities during climate crises. Founded on data-driven site selection, the project identifies Hunter’s Point, Queens as an optimal location due to its significant heat vulnerability, vacant lot availability, transit accessibility, and strong temperature deviation from the city median.
The project invisions three interconnected sites; an Activation Center, Shoreline Test Bed, and Cooling Center, linked by a cooling pathway that provides continuous refuge during extreme events. Each site addresses specific community needs while maintaining emergency readiness capabilities. Key design strategies include flood-resilient infrastructure, ecological restoration of historical wetlands, noise mitigation barriers, and passive cooling systems.
The implementation follows a situational approach, evolving from neighborhood cooling centers and community programs to displacement support facilities and emergency relief centers for flooding events. This strategic transition ensures the network’s capacity to adapt to escalating climate challenges. By integrating community programming; fitness facilities, ecological education, and co-work spaces with emergency protocols, The Living Network strengthens social resilience while preserving human dignity during crises.
