MetroFuture’s would improve air quality through reduced energy demand and a shift away from fossil fuels. A decrease in total vehicle miles traveled in the region (Goal 48) would have the biggest impact. Congestion would increase in some locations, though much less than if Current Trends continue. Air quality in urban areas would be improved through the use of alternative
fuels. Urban trees would help to reduce and mitigate congestion and air quality effects of new growth. Fewer sensitive land uses and disadvantaged populations will be located near highways and major emission sources. This will result in improved health for its residents, with substantially lower allergy and asthma rates, especially among urban residents.

Objectives:

• Regional ozone (smog)-O2 levels will never exceed 0.070 ppm (8 hour average).
• Sensitive land uses (homes, schools, daycare, playgrounds, or medical facilities, etc) will not be sited closer than 500 ft to a major transportation facility (freeways or urban roadway with 50,000 vehicles or more per day).
• There will be no areas in the region that have ambient PM 2.5 level higher then 10 micrograms per cubic meter on an annual basis.