Eastlake student proposes neighborhood air‑quality monitor network at Sammamish sustainability meeting

A student from Eastlake High School outlined a project to bring neighborhood‑level air quality data to Sammamish residents during the city’s July Sustainability Commission meeting.

"My name is Arian, and I'm a student at Eastlake High School," said Arian during public comment. "Over the past year, I've been developing developing a network of low cost air quality monitoring systems with the goal of making air quality information more accessible at the community level." He said the monitors measure particulate matter including PM2.5 and PM10 and that he plans to compare local readings with Washington Department of Health and NOAA datasets using machine learning.

Commission staff and members praised the work and offered to connect the student with additional resources. Staff said the presentation had already been shown to some commissioners and suggested one‑on‑one meetings to follow up. "If any commissioners are interested in learning more, you're absolutely welcome to reach out, and I can connect you," staff said.

The student noted the importance of local sensors during wildfire season, when smoke levels can vary over short distances. Commissioners and staff discussed practical next steps, including connecting with city staff and the Sustainability Commission's outreach at upcoming public events. Staff said Arian may be invited to present the project to City Council in the coming weeks.

The exchange concluded with offers for technical follow‑ups and invitations to brief commissioners in smaller groups. No formal action was taken.