Phoenix swapped black asphalt for a reflective road coating; noon surface heat fell 12°F, but pedestrians faced higher radiant heat

In an effort to lower urban heat, Phoenix tested innovative reflective pavement coatings on its roads, revealing that treated asphalt kept cooler than traditional options. Despite this advantage, the reflective nature led to intensified heat for pedestrians in the vicinity. Further complicating matters, the effectiveness of these coatings decreased with time due to dirt and degradation, driving cities to consider these factors for enhanced comfort levels for their residents.