Project Grant 98T40701

The Environmental Protection Agency Region 9 awarded $183,500 to the San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Pollution Control District under the Surveys, Studies, Research, Investigations, Demonstrations, and Special Purpose Activities Relating to the Clean Air Act federal grant program (CFDA 66.034) to advance enhanced monitoring of particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) in communities with environmental justice concerns in the San Joaquin Valley area of California.

Through this project grant, the District will replace existing filter-based PM2.5 monitors with continuous monitors to provide real-time PM2.5 concentration data. The new monitors will be installed in underserved communities facing disproportionate exposure and health risks associated with PM2.5. By automating monitoring processes, the upgraded system will ensure consistent data quality across monitoring locations and allow comparisons of continuous data streams between nearby areas. The project aims to improve air quality monitoring in accordance with EPA requirements and help more citizens live and work in areas meeting high standards, thereby reducing health risks including cancer and neurological effects. The $183,500 in funding was awarded on August 31, 2021 and projects must be completed by December 31, 2022.