South Modesto is a vibrant and diverse community located in Stanislaus County, within the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. Home to a large Hispanic and multilingual population, South Modesto reflects a rich mix of cultures and backgrounds.

The community faces persistent air quality challenges, with pollution from industrial facilities, major highways, agriculture, and local waste operations contributing to high levels of ozone and particulate matter. These conditions have led to elevated rates of asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other health burdens, especially among children and low-income families.

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 in South Modesto.