As any resident of Los Angeles can attest, traffic congestion in Los Angeles’ is a serious challenge. With excessive traffic comes toxic air pollution, creating a serious public health crisis. As an emergency physician, I see how poor air quality contributes to life-threatening respiratory conditions, heart attacks, and strokes. More patients are suffering from heat stroke – and extreme heat triggers more asthma attacks, too — especially in communities disproportionately affected by air pollution. The well-being of our city is at stake, and it’s time to take bold, innovative action.
The LA ART gondola (Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit) project is more than a transportation upgrade, it’s a leap toward a cleaner, healthier future. This zero-emissions system will significantly reduce vehicles on the roads, cutting carbon pollution and easing congestion in one of the city’s busiest corridors. By connecting Union Station to Dodger Stadium, the project will replace tens of thousands of car trips with an electric-powered, sustainable alternative. On game days alone, the gondola will take up to 3,000 cars off the road while boosting public transportation ridership year-round.
As an emergency physician, I see the effects of climate change and air pollution every day. More and more patients come into the ER having difficulty breathing, often stemming from poor air quality that then leads to chronic, and potentially fatal, respiratory conditions, including lung cancer. We’ve discovered that air pollution affects every organ system– it increases the likelihood of heart attacks, cardiovascular diseases, strokes, and even developing dementia.
The goal is simple: reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector—immediately and permanently. That means investing in zero-emissions infrastructure and expanding sustainable mobility options without delay. LA ART is a catalyst for change, proving that cities can modernize their transportation systems while driving economic growth and improving human health.
On Earth Day, we’re reminded that bold action is necessary. We have a chance to redefine transportation in Los Angeles and set a precedent for other cities facing similar challenges. All Angelenos should breathe clean air.
We must focus on protecting our health, our environment, and the future of our city. LA ART delivers a safe, innovative, and clean solution and positions Los Angeles as a leader in sustainable, zero-emissions transit.
About the Author
Marc Futernick, MD is an Emergency Physician in Los Angeles and the Director of Clinical Services for U.S. Acute Care Solutions. A UCLA and Tulane University School of Medicine graduate, he has practiced Emergency Medicine since 2000. Dr. Futernick co-founded the Environmental Action Committee at Dignity Health California Hospital Medical Center and is the Managing Editor of the Journal of Climate Change and Health. He serves on the Board of Directors for Climate Resolve and is a Past President of the California Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians.
