PM2.5 AdvancePath Forward

Transportation Advisory CommitteeJune 12, 2014

Past and Present Status of PM2.5

• In 2012, EPA strengthened the federal standard for PM2.5 to 12 micrograms per cubic meter

• Preliminary 2013 TCEQ data indicate declining PM2.5 values

• However, the HGB annual PM2.5 design value is very close to the current standard

Voluntary PM2.5 Advance Program

• The PM Advance Program is a voluntary, collaborative effort to reduce PM2.5

• RAQPAC recommended H-GAC participate in the voluntary PM Advance Program to proactively address regional PM2.5 concerns

• H-GAC Board of Directors authorized H-GAC staff to develop voluntary strategies to reduce PM2.5

• PM 2.5 Task Force subsequently developed “Path Forward” document, which serves as a voluntary action plan to reduce PM2.5 emissions in our region

• RAQPAC voted to recommend H-GAC submission of the Path Forward to EPA

PM2.5 Path Forward

• The Path Forward is a compilation of voluntary regional air quality improvement efforts

• Projects range from

• Replacement of older heavy-duty truck and marine engines with newer, cleaner models

• Funding of electric vehicle charging equipment

• Voluntary industry and local government air quality initiatives

• Over 50 current H-GAC and partner programs/projects are included in the plan, and nearly 20 additional potential future initiatives are included

PM2.5 Advance Next Steps

• Present Path Forward to H-GAC Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)

• Present Path Forward to Transportation Policy Council (TPC), June 2014 & H-GAC Board of Directors, July 2014

• Upon TPC and Board approval, Path Forward will be submitted to EPA, July-August 2014

• RAQPAC/H-GAC staff will distribute Path Forward, Track Forward Efforts & Adjust Path Forward on an ongoing basis

• Final Designations for PM2.5 NAAQS, Dec. 2014 (EPA/TCEQ)

• H-GAC will provide informal Status Updates to EPA, annually

Shelley Whitworth

Air Quality Program Manager

Houston-Galveston Area Council

713-499-6695

Shelley.Whitworth@H-GAC.com

CONTACT INFORMATION