By Tiffany Williams –
WORCESTER — With high temperatures forecasted for Wednesday and Thursday, the City of Worcester is opening designated cooling centers to help residents stay safe during the heatwave.
City officials announced that the Worcester Public Library’s main branch and the Worcester Senior Center will serve as cooling centers, offering a safe and air-conditioned environment, along with bottled water for those who need it.
The cooling centers will operate on the following schedule:
Wednesday, July 16
- Worcester Public Library (Main Branch), 3 Salem Square: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence Street: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday, July 17
- Worcester Public Library (Main Branch), 3 Salem Square: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence Street: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
All facilities are accessible via the Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA), which continues to operate fare-free. The WRTA also offers curb-to-curb ADA transportation for eligible residents. For information on routes, ADA eligibility, or travel training, residents can call the WRTA at 508-791-9782.
Health officials are reminding the public that prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity can overwhelm the body’s ability to cool itself, increasing the risk of heat-related illness. Residents are encouraged to limit strenuous outdoor activities, stay well hydrated, and check in on vulnerable neighbors.