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èßäÊÓƵand Partners Present Heat Mapping Findings
Community-driven solutions aim to combat rising urban heat in Portsmouth
University News | March 8, 2025
èßäÊÓƵ University, in collaboration with the Center for Sustainable Communities and other key partners, took a significant step forward today in the fight against extreme urban heat. Project leaders convened at New Bethel Baptist Church in Portsmouth to present findings from last summer’s heat mapping campaign and engage the community in developing strategies for heat mitigation. 
Dr. Elizabeth Malcolm, Professor of Ocean & Atmospheric Sciences and Director of Sustainability at VWU; Dr. Maynard Schaus, èßäÊÓƵProfessor of Biology and Environmental Science and Coordinator of Sustainability Management; Dr. John C. Haley, èßäÊÓƵProfessor of Earth Science and Chair of Earth and Environmental Sciences; and Garry Harris, Executive Director of the Center for Sustainable Communities. Together, they shared data collected in July when volunteers equipped with heat sensors drove predetermined routes through Portsmouth, capturing temperature variations across different neighborhoods.
“This study confirmed what we already suspected—some areas of Portsmouth experience significantly higher temperatures than others due to low tree cover and extensive impervious surfaces,” said Dr. Malcolm. “The data collected will help us create targeted interventions that directly benefit the most vulnerable communities.” 
The findings showed that neighborhoods with dense asphalt and concrete recorded temperatures are among the hottest areas in the entire Commonwealth of Virginia. These urban heat islands pose a significant public health risk, particularly for elderly residents, low-income communities, and those with preexisting health conditions.
Following the presentation, project leaders facilitated a discussion with community members, seeking input on proposed mitigation strategies. Recommendations included aggressive tree planting efforts, the removal of unnecessary concrete surfaces, and the promotion of green infrastructure solutions.
Harris emphasized the importance of community participation in shaping and implementing solutions. “We need to ensure that residents have a voice in this process,” he said. “Community-driven solutions are the most effective and sustainable way to combat the deadly effects of extreme heat.”
The event concluded with a symbolic first step in the mitigation effort: the planting of several trees around New Bethel Baptist Church. Volunteers joined èßäÊÓƵfaculty and community leaders in digging, watering, and setting the trees in place—an action that underscores the commitment to long-term environmental resilience in Portsmouth. 
This project, funded by the Virginia Department of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service through the Inflation Reduction Act Urban and Community Forestry (IRA UCF) grant, exemplifies VWU’s dedication to environmental stewardship and civic engagement. As the heat mitigation plan continues to take shape, èßäÊÓƵand its partners remain committed to fostering a greener, healthier, and more resilient Portsmouth.