Central Florida ozone levels remain below federal standard, helping keep transportation projects on track

Central Florida’s ozone levels remain below the federal air quality standard, according to a new report from MetroPlan Orlando, a development that could help keep transportation projects moving across the region.The report tracks ozone levels at four locations in Central Florida. The region’s continued compliance with federal air quality standards is important not only for public health but also for transportation planning and funding.If the region falls into nonattainment, meaning it no longer meets federal air quality requirements, transportation projects could face additional federal review before moving forward.Gary Huttmann, executive director of MetroPlan Orlando, said projects would have to undergo an additional analysis to demonstrate they would not worsen air quality.“You have to do a conformity analysis and show that the improvements that you’re making make improvements to the air quality,” Huttmann said.That process can add time and expense to transportation projects.“It’s c