South Bronx residents fight for better air quality
Residents of the South Bronx are fighting for better air quality, citing high asthma rates and increased particulate matter in the air, despite some data showing a downward trend in pollution levels. The community group South Bronx Unite is calling for more localized efforts to address pollution and congestion.
Residents of the South Bronx are advocating for improved air quality due to high asthma rates in the area. The community group South Bronx Unite, along with researchers from Columbia University's School of Public Health, has collected data from 57 air quality monitors over two years, showing a 0.22 micrograms per cubic meter increase in particulate matter around Mott Haven and Port Morris. While the MTA and New York City Health Department report a downward trend in pollution levels, South Bronx Unite argues that more localized efforts are needed. The group is running education campaigns, distributing air purifiers, and pushing for targeted interventions. The MTA has highlighted $100 million in mitigation efforts, including converting diesel units and installing air filtration systems in schools. Congestion pricing, which began in 2025, has shown some positive effects, with a 5% drop in total traffic and a 10.2% drop in truck traffic on the BQE.
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