Pittsburgh area air quality is now officially 'clean' for two pollution standards

US environmental regulators are proposing to declare the Liberty-Clairton area of Pennsylvania as meeting federal air quality standards for fine particulate matter. This means the area will no longer be designated as a "nonattainment" zone for these specific pollutants, easing some regulatory requirements.

For years, areas designated as "nonattainment" face stricter rules and must develop plans to reduce pollution. This proposed change means the Liberty-Clairton area, a historically industrial region, has met the targets for two older fine particulate matter standards. It also sets new emissions budgets for vehicles in Allegheny County through 2035, which will guide future transportation planning and development.