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Transcom told EPA rescinded 179B guidance; USDOT announces Safe Streets NOFO with May and June deadlines
Summary
At the Transcom meeting Wayne Bennion reported the EPA had rescinded guidance on Clean Air Act Section 179B demonstrations, and staff summarized the US DOT/FHWA Safe Streets and Roads for All discretionary grant notice of funding opportunity and deadlines.
Wayne Bennion, representing WFRC federal relations, briefed the Transportation Coordinating Committee (Transcom) on two federal developments: the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to rescind guidance on Clean Air Act Section 179B demonstrations, and a US Department of Transportation notice of funding opportunity for Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A).
Bennion said the EPA action removes prior guidance on the preparation of Clean Air Act Section 179B demonstrations that states file to show attainment of the national ozone standard when areas are affected by international transport. He summarized the practical effect: the change gives the State Division of Air Quality and other intermountain state agencies “increased flexibility” to demonstrate attainment and can help Utah avoid penalties tied to international emissions that are outside state control. Bennion described the change as “good news” for Utah.
Bennion then reviewed the SS4A competitive grant schedule. He said the FY2025 notice of funding opportunity is available, with a full application deadline of June 26, 2025, and a required pre-application for implementation grants due to USDOT by May 9, 2025. He noted applicants may pursue either implementation grants or supplemental planning and demonstration grants in the same year but not both; a 20% local match is required for awards. Bennion also said that FY2024 SS4A award announcements were on hold pending federal review.
Why it matters: The EPA’s change affects how the state can document air-quality attainment when international emissions contribute to local ozone readings; that documentation can influence whether sanctions or additional regulatory obligations apply. The SS4A NOFO provides a discretionary funding opportunity for local governments and MPOs to support comprehensive safety action plans and capital projects that reduce roadway fatalities and serious injuries.
Questions and next steps: Members had no substantive objections during the briefing. Bennion asked applicants to note the May and June deadlines and to use the Transcom-adopted Comprehensive Safety Action Plan to qualify for implementation grants. Staff said they had circulated an email about the NOFO, and Transcom members were encouraged to coordinate with WFRC staff if they intend to apply.
Speakers quoted and referenced in this report are those who spoke on record at the meeting.
