Livernois & Vernor: High Truck Traffic & Pollution Spikes (Sept 1–18, 2025)

The Trucks Off Our Streets (TOOS) Dashboard study in the Livernois & Vernor area (District 6) investigated long-standing resident concerns about excessive heavy diesel truck volume and its impact on air quality.

Shocking Truck Traffic Volume

The monitoring camera, positioned on Livernois, confirmed a high volume of truck traffic passing directly by homes and community centers.

Note: This volume impacts a densely residential area, near Maybury Elementary School, Most Holy Redeemer Church, and Clark Park, and is close to I-75 and major industrial sites like the Marathon Petroleum Refinery.

 Air Quality Findings (PM2.5)

Overall Readings: While over 6,500 readings were taken, more than 40% were categorized as "Moderate," and 3 readings were classified as "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups."

 Health Risk Reminder

The constant presence of high truck volume (146 trucks per day) ensures a steady release of diesel emissions. The daily spikes reaching "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" levels pose a clear risk to vulnerable populations, including children at nearby schools, seniors, and those with existing respiratory conditions.

 Protect Your Health & Advocate for Change

The community must take action to address the confirmed high traffic volume and mitigate the risk from daily pollution spikes.

1. Immediate Behavioral Change (Protecting Yourself)

  • Track Daily Air Quality: Residents should subscribe to local monitor alerts at justair.app/signup

  • Improve Indoor Air: Use Air Purifiers in bedrooms and frequently used living spaces.1

  • Limit Exposure: Be aware that pollution spikes occur frequently. Check the air quality before extended time outdoors.

2. Advocate for Structural Change

  • Address Congestion: Advocate for traffic flow improvements (e.g., timed lights) as congestion increases pollution exposure.

  • Green Buffers: Push for tree and vegetation barriers along Livernois to filter truck emissions.

Traffic Management: Demand that city leaders and environmental agencies investigate rerouting heavy-duty vehicles and establish policies that limit truck traffic during peak pollution periods.