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PM_2.5 CONFORMITY DETERMINATION for Baltimore Beltway I-695: MD 140 to MD 702

F. Conclusion

In summary, based on the analysis, it is determined that the I-695 corridor project meets all the project level conformity requirements, and that the proposed I-695 corridor project will not cause or contribute to a new violation of the PM_2.5 NAAQS, or increase the frequency or severity of a violation for the following reasons:

• A monitor (240051007) with comparable traffic characteristics and roadway influences to the I-695 analysis area is currently monitoring PM_2.5 concentrations that are below the 24-hour and annual standards, with 2006 values 49% of the current 24-hour standard (65 ug/m³) and 84% of the annual standard (15 ug/m³).

• PM_2.5 emissions are expected to be significantly reduced in the project area as demonstrated by the 46% projected reductions in the regional emissions analysis shown in Table 2, as well as by national projections by EPA reflecting the impacts of national emissions control programs, such as the 2007 Heavy-duty Diesel Rule. The 2007 values for the referenced monitor site, which are less than the 2006 values also demonstrate this; although there is not data for the entire year of 2007.

• The 2010 Build traffic volumes are not significantly higher than 2005 traffic volumes near the comparison monitor, and the truck percents are slightly less. While the overall truck volumes at the analysis location are slightly higher than at the monitoring site, the increase is not sufficient to lead to a violation of the NAAQS.

By email dated July 26, 2007 the above analysis was approved by FHWA and forwarded to EPA, MDE and BRTB for Interagency Consultation. On August 2, 2007, response was received from MDE with comments. The comments received from MDE, have been addressed as shown in the attached Errata. On August 9, 2007 approval was received from MDE, and on August 16 approval was received from EPA. On August 17, 2007 response was received from BRTB with comments. The comments, received from BRTB have been addressed as shown in the attached Errata. FHWA, EPA, BRTB and MDE agreed with the conclusion that the I-695: MD140 to MD 702 Project will not cause or contribute to a new violation of the PM_2.5 NAAQS, or increase the frequency or severity of a violation. As no other comments were received from Interagency Consultation, this Conformity Determination will be placed on SHA's website for a 15 day public review and comment period. Refer to Appendix C for emails and Errata.