July 20, 2023 — Five mayors joined with the Smart Surfaces Coalition (SSC) to announce a multiyear project to cool cities and metropolitan areas with Smart Surfaces: a cost-effective integrated solution including reflective (cool) roofs and pavements, green roofs, solar energy, porous pavements, rain gardens, and trees. As cities continue to grapple with record heat, America’s mayors are responding with bold action to implement this no-brainer solution. Smart Surfaces can cool cities by 5°F, deliver large reductions in flooding and resulting mold, and provide $10 in benefits and cost savings for every $1 spent.

The mayors of Atlanta, Boston, Columbia (South Carolina), Dallas, and New Orleans signed up for the Cities for Smart Surfaces program, joining the city of Baltimore, recognizing that Smart Surfaces rapidly deliver climate change mitigation and adaptation.