Tracy residents oppose new distribution center citing traffic and pollution concerns

The Tracy City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, focused on community concerns regarding the planned development of distribution centers along Coral Hollow Road. Residents expressed significant worries about the potential increase in traffic and air pollution resulting from these projects.

Several community members voiced their opposition to the distribution centers, highlighting the expected surge in truck traffic that would accompany the facilities. One resident pointed out that over 8,000 new homes are set to be constructed in South Tracy, which would funnel additional traffic onto Coral Hollow Road, the primary access route for the area. They argued that the influx of trucks would exacerbate existing traffic issues, creating severe congestion and safety hazards.

Concerns about air quality were also prominent in the discussions. Residents referenced data from the California Air Resources Board, noting that diesel particulate matter is a significant contributor to cancer risk in the state. They urged the council to consider the health implications of increased pollution from idling trucks at the distribution centers, especially given the proximity to residential areas and schools.

Another speaker emphasized the need for alternative developments that could provide jobs while also benefiting the community, such as retail spaces, rather than solely focusing on distribution centers. This approach, they argued, could help reduce traffic and pollution by keeping local residents from needing to travel into the city for services.

The meeting underscored the community's strong opposition to the proposed developments, with residents calling on the city council to prioritize public health and traffic safety in their planning decisions. The council is expected to take these concerns into account as they move forward with discussions on the future of development in the area.