Sun Sails

Identify heat-exposed new square - assess UHI risk
Evaluate options (white vs blue vs green)- select white measure
Design layout, posts, anchoring; coordinate utilities
Procure and install sun sails
Operate seasonally; collect user feedback; plan basic monitoring

Considering dense underground utilities, event needs, timelines, and budget, modular sun sails offered the best balance of speed, reversibility, and cost. The layout was co-designed with planning, public works, and events teams, utility clearances were checked, procurement was completed, and approximately 330 m² of shading was installed.

Site assessment and option screening
Co-design with municipal teams and stakeholders
Technical design and procurement
Installation and seasonal operation plan
Communication via municipal channels/events

Shading structures: HDPE sun sails (~180 g/m²), breathable/UV-resistant
Reinforced hems, stainless corner hardware; adjustable tensioning
Steel posts with stainless cladding; point foundations above dense utilities
Seasonal install/remove; low-maintenance inspections
Permits/clearances: standard public-space works approval, utility clearance, event-use coordination

Inputs from Climate Sandbox workshop, city planners, public works, tourism/events, local businesses
On-site discussions during pilot and public events; informal citizen feedback gathered
Ongoing communication via municipal website, social media, local media

Immediate thermal-comfort improvement in shaded zones
Higher dwell times and better daytime event usability
Maintains flexible use (markets/performances/pedestrian flow)

Dense utilities and full paving constrained greening, white measure provided fastest impact with least disruption.
No instrumented baseline in first season, plan monitoring in parallel with procurement (budget small sensors early).
Keep desire lines clear: Early coordination with market/event layouts avoids later repositioning.

Start with a quick, reversible shading pilot in the highest-use paved areas
Coordinate early with utilities and events; design for seasonal operation and easy maintenance
Pair with basic monitoring (temp loggers + short surveys) and consider layering mobile green/blue elements