El Monte, South El Monte, Avocado Heights, Hacienda Heights, La Puente, and Bassett are neighboring, diverse communities in the San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County, located within the South Coast Air Quality Management District. These areas are home to a vibrant mix of Hispanic, Asian, and multilingual families, reflecting the cultural richness of the region.

Residents face persistent air quality challenges due to heavy freeway traffic, nearby industrial activity, and local sources such as waste facilities and warehouses. These pollution burdens contribute to high rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses, especially among children and low-income households.

The district has teamed up with Aclima and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to launch a community air monitoring project guiding future actions as a part of SMMI. Using Aclima’s advanced sensors, the project collects detailed, block-by-block data on air quality throughout the community. This provides residents with clear information about local pollution and helps guide actions to improve air quality, focusing on the areas and people most affected.

In April 2025, residents, local organizations, and project partners met to discuss air quality concerns, shape the Community Air Monitoring Plan, and explore solutions for a healthier, more equitable future.