Air Quality Monitoring Network installed in New Bedford
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — Five air quality sensors have been installed in New Bedford with hopes to bring cleaner air to the city.
City Officials say the new air quality monitors were installed to inform residents and help decision-makers on public policy and equitable health outcomes. The sensors are located at Pier 3, Fort Taber, on East Rodney French Boulevard near Brittany Global Technologies, on Griffin Court and on Pearl Street. 15 additional sensors will be installed later this spring. Those future locations include Buttonwood Park, New Bedford High School, St. Luke’s Hospital, Brook Street, Coffin Avenue and others. The sensor locations will be adjusted based on data recording and community input.
“New Bedford is committed to improving the quality of life for its residents, starting with the very air they breathe,” said Mayor Jon Mitchell. “The information generated by these sensors will illuminate the steps we need to take.”
The City’s Office of Resilience and Environmental Stewardship is partnering with Groundwork Southcoast on the sensor’s installation and maintenance. The initiative is one of 132 nationwide to be funded through grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2022 American Rescue Plan. New Bedford’s gran award was $3491,822.
The city will hold a public meeting later this year to gain additional feedback and suggestions from residents.
