MEDIA ADVISORY

Media Contact: Christian Talley, ctalley@truscottrossman.com

SMART to Deploy Cooling Buses Across Metro Detroit During Extreme Heat

Free, air-conditioned relief available at six locations from July 13-17

WHAT:                  To help residents stay safe during periods of extreme heat, SMART will deploy Cooling Buses at six locations across metro Detroit. Buses will be available to the public as a free, air-conditioned space to cool down, stay hydrated, and find relief from the heat.

WHEN:                 Monday, July 13 to Friday, July 17, from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Cooling Buses will operate only if weather conditions warrant, based on extreme heat.

WHERE:                                

• Pontiac (Old Phoenix Center), 10 Water Street, East of Saginaw, 48342
• Fairlane Mall, 18900 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126
• Macomb Mall, 32233 Gratiot Ave, Roseville, MI 48066
• Southland Mall, 23000 Eureka Rd, Taylor, MI 48180
• Bel-Air Shopping Center, 8200 8 Mile Rd, Detroit, MI, 48234-1107
• JL Hudson Drive

WHO:                    Any member of the public seeking relief from extreme heat. No fare or SMART pass required to access a Cooling Bus.                         

WHY:                     Extreme heat, which is defined as temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit,  poses serious health risks, particularly for seniors, people with disabilities, young children, and those without access to air conditioning. SMART’s Cooling Bus program is part of the agency’s commitment to serving the community beyond regular transit operations, ensuring residents have a safe, accessible option when temperatures become dangerous.

###

About SMART

Serving since 1967, SMART is southeast Michigan’s only regional public transportation provider, offering convenient, reliable, and safe transportation for Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. SMART offers fixed route, microtransit, and paratransit services for seniors and people with disabilities. These services connect people to employment, colleges and universities, medical appointments, and shopping centers. Through SMART’s programs, nearly 8 million rides are provided annually. SMART is supported by federal and state funding, local contributions through a transit property tax millage from opt-in communities, and bus fares. For routes and fare information, visit SMARTMovesUs.org or call Customer Service at 866-962-5515.