Re-Evaluation of Montana's Air Quality Program

This project examined the Montana Department of Transportation's (MDT's) current methods for determining projects for the Montana Air and Congestion Initiative (MACI) program, and made recommendations to improve and implement this program. A major project objective was to keep the program oriented towards high-value investments for Montana communities. Key project tasks included: (1) Determine the best use of Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds for each of Montana’s transportation-related pollutants; (2) Determine project recommendations that use highest cost to air quality benefit for long-term attainment; (3) Determine needed funding and program policy changes; (4) Identify areas prone to future transportation-related issues; and (5) Determine need for education in Montana communities on best practices to prevent nonattainment of transportation related pollutants. One of the primary products of this research is a set of methods descriptions and Microsoft Excel-based tools that are designed for MDT staff and other Montana agencies to use to estimate the air pollution emission reduction benefit and the cost effectiveness of the new measures and projects that are being considered in the state.