Air pollution doesn’t affect everyone equally — and in Milwaukee, neighborhoods along the I-94 corridor experience some of the highest levels of exposure. That’s why MKE FreshAir Collective launched a new, two-year project to monitor air quality near this major freeway. Our goal is simple but urgent: better data, deeper understanding, and stronger community response. 

Currently, we are looking for partners in Avenues West, Bluemound Heights, Honey Creek Park, Johnson's Woods, Merrill Park, and Story Hill neighborhoods to host an air quality sensor.

Why This Project Matters

Freeways like I-94 bring more than just traffic — they bring air pollutants like fine particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) that can harm our health, especially for children, older adults, and people with asthma or heart conditions. Yet too often, these impacts go unnoticed or unmeasured in the communities most affected.

We believe that the people closest to the problem should help shape the solutions. This project combines cutting-edge air sensors with on-the-ground engagement to build a clearer picture of the air we breathe — and what we can do about it.

What We're Doing

• Deploying neighborhood air sensors along the I-94 corridor to collect real-time data on harmful pollutants.

• Partnering with residents, schools, churches, and local organizations to share findings and discuss solutions.

• Hosting workshops and learning events to help community members understand the science, the stakes, and their power.

• Advocating for healthier environments based on what we learn together.
  
  

This project started July 1, 2025 and will continue for at least two years — giving us time to build relationships, track seasonal changes, and turn data into action.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you're a local resident, faith leader, teacher, small business owner, or just someone who cares — we want to work with you. Here are a few ways to plug in:

• Host a sensor at your home, school, or business

• Join a community conversation or data workshop

• Help spread the word to neighbors or your network

• Collaborate with us on outreach, education, or events
  
  

Not sure where to start? That’s okay. Just reach out to us — we’ll walk you through it.

Clean Air Is a Shared Right

Everyone deserves to breathe clean air. This project is about more than just numbers — it’s about neighborhood voices, shared learning, and real solutions. Let’s work together to make the invisible visible, and to make Milwaukee a healthier place for all.