The City continues to work with the RAQC on reducing street sand, helping to implement Metro Vision 2020 and through reducing local contributions to ozone. The federal government measures ozone violations on a 3 year average of the fourth highest readings for ozone at 10 different monitoring sites throughout the region. Fortunately, none of the 4th high maximum ozone readings was sufficient to cause a violation so far in 1999. One monitor came exceedingy close, and next year will be crucial. Local governments in the region are encouraged to continue strategies to reduce ozone producing Volatile Organic Compounds, especially on high ozone days.
Ozone is harmful to human health and can cause lung irritation even to healthy adults.
In addition, Federal non-attainment status for ozone carries with it a host of cumbersome requirements that will make air quality and transportation planning for the region, much more difficult. Local governments that need assistance in developing local ozone reduction strategies are encouraged to call the RAQC office, ext. Local Government representatives from Jefferson County have been asked to make presentations on local air quality techniques or strategies.