Last week, I participated on the Patt Morrison Show on KPPC (89.3) in a conversation about childhood health issues in Long Beach and how they are affected by poor air quality (hear me at the 38:30 mark). As the panel noted, the science is clear— children who live near freeways and the ports are at higher risk of asthma and many other ailments from diesel particulates. I asked a simple question: How do we move towards a zero-emissions future where we move containers from the ports to train facilities without polluting our neighborhoods? To those who wonder if electric trains are technologically feasible, I respond that we had electric trains in Long Beach in 1902— it was called the Red Car. By returning to such technologies in the future, I know we can grow our port and improve our environment at the same time.
If you are interested in learning more, please come to our upcoming discussion on zero-emissions technologies. This event, which will be co-sponsored by the West Long Beach Association, the Air Quality Management District, and the 7th District Council Office, will be an opportunity for community members to learn more about how these technologies can improve our residents’ health while bringing more economic growth and jobs to Long Beach. It will be on Thursday, March 24 at 7pm at Silverado Park, 1545 W. 31st Street in West Long Beach. I hope to see you there.
James Johnson
Long Beach City Councilmember
7th District
