Massport measures air pollution near Beachmont School with state-of-the-art monitors

By Tara Vocino

The Massport Community Advisory Committee announced in a press conference on last Wednesday that it is collecting air pollution data from airplanes flying near Beachmont Veterans Memorial School.

According to Massport Community Advisory Committee Chair Alan Wright, Logan Airport is half a mile from Beachmont School. “People breathing in those particles are more susceptible to inflammation in sensitive tissues, such as the heart and brain,” Wright said. “[A monitor] will be ideal if placed inside the school, but we will find the highest point in the city.”

Hugo Rizzuto, who is a committee member and a Point of Pines resident, said the particles will be studied for at least a couple of years. “Kids go to school here, and we want to install a monitor close to the airport,” Rizzuto said. “They have to deal with the noise and pollution, and as a Point of Pines resident, I do, too.”

Wright said he is very happy that the committee purchased air pollution monitors, for $14,000 each. Massport funds the committee.

State Representative Jeffrey Turco said he is grateful to represent 40 percent of Revere and to be in the presence of Massport Community Advisory Committee Vice Chair Jerry Falbo. “The committee presents ongoing concerns and highlights the damage being done,” Turco said. “It affects residents and children who attend school here.”

Ward 1 Councillor James Mercurio said the monitors are state-of-the-art. “They will reflect a true reading of how planes disperse fine materials,” Mercurio said. “They will be beneficial for the people of Beachmont and to combat noise disruption.”