Reso PC16-23 PC 0116 Reso CEQA - Sandpiper

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Section 4.0 — Environmental Setting and Discussion of Impacts BAAQMD's attempt to reduce ozone levels. The highest ozone levels in the Bay Area occur in the eastern and southern inland valleys that are downwind of air pollutant sources. High ozone levels aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reduce lung function, and increase coughing and chest discomfort. Particulate Matter Particulate matter is another problematic air pollutant in the Bay Area. Particulate matter is assessed and measured in terms of respirable particulate matter. These are particles that have a diameter of 10 micrometers or less (PM Io) and fine particles that have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less (PM2.5). Elevated concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 are the result of both region -wide (or cumulative) emissions and localized emissions. High particulate matter levels aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reduce lung function, increase mortality (e.g., lung cancer), and reduce lung function growth in children, Toxic .Air Contaminants In addition to the criteria pollutants discussed above, Toxic Air Contaminants (TACs) are another group of pollutants of concern. TACs are pollutants which may pose a present or potential hazard to human health. There are many different types of TACs, with varying degrees of toxicity. TAC sources include industrial processes such as petroleum refining and chrome plating operations, commercial operations such as gasoline stations and dry cleaners, and motor vehicle exhaust. Diesel exhaust is the predominant TAC in urban air and is estimated to represent about two-thirds of the cancer risk from TACs (based on the statewide average). Cars and trucks release at least forty different toxic air contaminants. The most important, in terms of health risk, are diesel particulate, benzene, formaldehyde, 1,3 -butadiene, and acetaldehyde. Health effects of TACs include cancer, birth defects, neurological damage, and death. 4.3.1.3 Sensitive Receptors The BAAQMD defines sensitive receptors as facilities where population groups particularly sensitive to the effects of air pollutants (i.e., children, the elderly, and people with illnesses) are likely to be located. Examples include schools, hospitals, and residential areas. Existing sensitive receptors in the project area include nearby residences and students attending Sandpiper Elementary School. 4.3.1.4 Odors Odors are generally described as an annoyance rather than a health hazard. The ability to detect odors varies considerably among the population, and people may have different reactions to the same odor. There are no knownn odor sources in the project area. City of Redwood City 21 Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration Sandpiper Elementary School Facilities Expansion November 2016