Airport Impact Relief Inc.

Overview

Airport Impact Relief Inc. (AIR Inc.) is a nonprofit organization established in 1981, based in East Boston, Massachusetts. It operates as a 501(c)(3) charity focused on mitigating the environmental and community impacts imposed by Logan International Airport and other nearby airports. Its primary mission is to advocate for residents affected by airport operations, enhance public awareness, and promote community engagement regarding environmental and transportation issues.

History

Founded by a coalition of local activists, AIR Inc. was created to serve as a legal entity capable of managing funding from the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport). Over the decades, it has evolved into East Boston's longest-serving community organization, dedicated to advocacy, education, and technical consultation related to airport impacts.

Activities and Services

AIR Inc. provides a range of services aimed at informing and supporting the East Boston community. These include:

• Offering technical assistance and summarizing complex environmental reports such as Environmental Data Reports (EDR) and Environmental Impact Reports (EIR).

• Conducting community education initiatives to raise awareness about airport-related issues, focusing on health, noise, and air quality.

• Coordinating regional advocacy campaigns and facilitating participation in official comment processes regarding airport operations and environmental policies.

• Collaborating with local groups to improve green spaces and infrastructure, exemplified by their involvement in the East Boston Greenway and other community parks designed to mitigate airport impacts.

Achievements

AIR Inc. has made significant contributions to the East Boston community, including:

• The signing of the Bird Island Flats Agreement in 1981, which initiated the use of open space for airport impact mitigation.

• Establishment of the East Boston Foundation, which has distributed over $5 million in grants to support local airport impact mitigation programs.

• Development of the Logan Airport Soundproofing Program, successfully soundproofing all eligible homes in the 65 DNL noise contour.

• Advocacy for the Belle Isle Marsh and participation in various studies, including the Logan Airport Health Study, which assesses the health impacts of airport operations on local residents.

Current Initiatives

As part of its ongoing work, AIR Inc. launched a Health Initiative in 2013, aimed at studying the health effects of airport operations. This initiative includes:

• The Logan Airport Health Study, which focused on evaluating respiratory and cardiovascular health impacts on local residents.

• The "Noise in the City" study, collaborating with researchers to monitor and analyze noise pollution in the East Boston area.

Leadership and Governance

AIR Inc. is managed by a volunteer Executive Committee, which holds public meetings monthly. The current board includes:

• President: Gail Miller
• Vice President: Chris Marchi
• Clerk: John Walkey

The organization encourages community members to participate and contribute to its governance and initiatives.

Conclusion

Through its dedicated efforts, Airport Impact Relief Inc. continues to be a vital advocate for East Boston residents, striving to address and alleviate the adverse effects of airport operations on the local community and environment.