Pacoima-North Hollywood-Sun Valley-San Fernando-Sylmar

The Northeast San Fernando Valley-encompassing Pacoima, North Hollywood, Sun Valley, San Fernando, and Sylmar- is a culturally rich region in Los Angeles County within the South Coast Air Quality Management District. These neighborhoods are predominantly Latino.

Residents contend with significant air pollution from major freeways, airports (Van Nuys and Whiteman), heavy industry, rail yards, and oil and gas operations. These sources contribute to some of the highest rates of asthma, cardiovascular disease, and low birth weight in Los Angeles County, especially in Pacoima and Sun Valley. Grassroots organizations like Pacoima Beautiful have led decades of environmental justice advocacy, resulting in localized air monitoring projects, but pollution burdens remain high.

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 and stakeholders from across the Northeast San Fernando Valley gathered to discuss ongoing air quality challenges and to explore collaborative solutions for a healthier, more equitable future.