Planes, pollution, and priorities in Waukegan

I was always fascinated by the different colored planes flying by and the annual air shows the Waukegan Airport hosted. To this day, I have an intense desire to become a pilot. However, I never considered the repercussions of living so close to an airport. That is, not until I was much older and more aware of the global climate crisis. The crisis is a change in climate due to human actions such as pollution or deforestation.

It is proposed that about 52 acres (about twice the area of Chicago’s Millennium Park) of a forest preserve be destroyed in favor of the expansion of the airport. Citizens’ homes and businesses are also at risk of being acquired, meaning they would have to move. Additionally, the predicted increase in air traffic means more jet fuel will be burned and more ultra-fine particulate matter. These particles are extremely harmful because they can cause worsening asthma symptoms, decrease lung function and impair cognitive ability in children. Furthermore, increased noise pollution can disrupt sleep, affect the academic performance of children, and increase the risk for cardiovascular disease.

Waukegan board members claim that there will be an economic benefit. However, the 7,000-foot runway costing $186 million just highlights the mismanagement of money. More beneficial matters that the money allocated for this project include revitalizing downtown Waukegan, housing development, road fixtures, educational support and more. All these improvements would boost Waukegan’s economy without sacrificing the forest preserve and citizens’ health.

Citizens should attend upcoming hearings, continue to voice their concerns and advocate for what they believe in. Petitions and getting this decision on a ballot could have the biggest impact.

Amiya Payne

Beach Park