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Optimizing tree placement for the Phoenix region

Description
Urban centers worldwide face the escalating challenge of urban heat islands (UHIs), which exacerbate public health issues and energy consumption due to increased temperatures. This thesis focuses on the Phoenix metropolitan area, recognized for its high summer temperatures, to explore innovative computational strategies for mitigating urban heat through optimized tree…

Urban centers worldwide face the escalating challenge of urban heat islands (UHIs), which exacerbate public health issues and energy consumption due to increased temperatures. This thesis focuses on the Phoenix metropolitan area, recognized for its high summer temperatures, to explore innovative computational strategies for mitigating urban heat through optimized tree placement. The research integrates high-fidelity microclimate modeling with advanced computational techniques to strategically position trees and enhance urban climate resilience. Utilizing the SOLWEIG and TreePlanter models, this study simulates the effects of tree planting on mean radiant temperature (MRT), crucial for thermal comfort in outdoor spaces. The models process geospatial data, including LiDAR and high-resolution thermal maps, to produce actionable insights for reducing urban temperatures. Results indicate that strategic tree planting significantly lowers MRT, enhancing urban livability and sustainability. This thesis contributes to urban planning by demonstrating how targeted greening interventions can alleviate the heat burden in cities, providing a replicable framework for other urban areas experiencing similar challenges.
ContributorsGarg, Shrey (Author) / Middel, Ariane (Thesis director) / Buo, Isaac (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor)
Created2024-05

A Wider Perspective of Cycling in Tempe, Arizona

Description
Cycling is the most energy efficient mode of transportation. Bikes are critical for addressing climate change, and contribute to a more active population, safer streets, and lower household expenditures on transportation. Given this, understanding how existing cycling infrastructure is being used, including where and when, helps decision makers know what…

Cycling is the most energy efficient mode of transportation. Bikes are critical for addressing climate change, and contribute to a more active population, safer streets, and lower household expenditures on transportation. Given this, understanding how existing cycling infrastructure is being used, including where and when, helps decision makers know what to invest in. This project does exactly that, counting cyclists and other active travel users in the city of Tempe across a whole day, and across the whole north of the city. Cycling in Tempe is already attractive in some areas of the city, but not others. The findings from this project were shared with stakeholders and community members in an interactive web map.
ContributorsLemarchand, Dorian (Author) / Salon, Deborah (Thesis director) / Jamme, Hue-Tam (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning (Contributor)
Created2024-05