Perceptions and physical drivers of extreme heat at transit stops

Extreme urban weather generates unequal impacts on human health and well-being, with transit stops often serving as critical points of exposure to extreme micro-climatic conditions. These locations are essential for urban mobility, particularly for transit-dependent riders, often among the most vulnerable and economically disadvantaged populations. However, transit stops frequently lack adequate protection against heat, leaving riders exposed to potentially hazardous thermal conditions. This study investigates the intersection of biophysical and social dimensions of extreme heat at transit stops in Denver, Colorado, USA.

A representative sample of 125 bus stops was selected to capture variability across physical attributes (e.g., vegetation cover, impervious surfaces, and built land cover) and socioeconomic gradients (e.g., income levels and racial/ethnic demographics). Summertime mean radiant temperature was measured at these stops using low-cost weather stations. These observations were used to characterize physical drivers of heat exposure, including micro- and neighborhood-scale land cover interactions, transit infrastructure design, and synoptic weather patterns. In parallel, rider perceptions of heat and its influence on transit behavior were assessed through structured surveys and detailed ridership data from individual bus stops.

Preliminary results provide insights into rider experiences and behavior under heat stress and highlight key physical drivers of extreme heat. These findings offer actionable recommendations for transit authorities to evaluate the effectiveness of current shade structures, prioritize infrastructure upgrades, and develop targeted heat mitigation strategies for transit users.