HOUSTON-GALVESTON -BRAZORIA (HGB) PM2.5 ADVANCE PATH FORWARD
Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC)....................................................................................................................... 3
Overall Program Objective ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Mission of the Local Program ............................................................................................................................................ 3
Voluntary Program Scope................................................................................................................................................... 3
The Region .............................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Geography, Population & Employment ............................................................................................................................. 4
Population, Employment & Economy ................................................................................................................................ 4
Transportation System ........................................................................................................................................................ 4
Vehicle Miles Traveled and Congestion............................................................................................................................. 4
Air Quality Background: What Is Air Pollution? ................................................................................................................... 5
Particulate Matter (PM) ...................................................................................................................................................... 5
Past and Present Status of PM2.5 in HGB .......................................................................................................................... 5
Houston-Galveston Brazoria (HGB) Monitoring Network ................................................................................................ 6
HGB Region PM2.5 FRM Monitoring Sites ........................................................................................................................ 7
HGB NO2 Near-Road Monitor(s) ...................................................................................................................................... 8
PM2.5 Composition in HGB .............................................................................................................................................. 9
HGB PM2.5 Inventory ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
Program Development Process ............................................................................................................................................. 13
Area Stakeholders/ Consultation Process.............................................................................................................................. 13
Past and Present Initiatives ................................................................................................................................................... 15
H-GAC Emission Reduction Strategies ................................................................................................................................ 15
Clean Vehicles Program ................................................................................................................................................... 16
Clean School Bus Program ............................................................................................................................................... 16
Regional Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP)........................................................................................................... 16
Drayage Loan Program ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
Clean Vessels for Texas Waters ....................................................................................................................................... 17
Commute Solutions: Ride Match (NuRide)...................................................................................................................... 17
Commute Solutions: Regional Vanpool Program ............................................................................................................ 17
Commute Solutions: Commuter and Transit Services Pilot Projects ............................................................................... 18
Commute Solutions: Telework ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Voluntary Idling Reduction Program .................................................................................................................................... 19
Clean Air Education .............................................................................................................................................................. 20
2010 Air Quality Reference Guide. ....................................................................................................................... 20
MySolutionIs.com. .............................................................................................................................................. 20
Ozone Viewer Mobile App................................................................................................................................... 20
Air Quality Forecast and PM Action Day E-Mail Alert system. .............................................................................. 20
Tree Planting Programs ......................................................................................................................................................... 20
Million Trees + Houston................................................................................................................................................... 20
Trees for Houston ............................................................................................................................................................. 20
Bayou Land Conservancy Annual Tree Planting ............................................................................................................. 21
Port of Houston Authority (PHA) ......................................................................................................................................... 21
Dust Suppression .............................................................................................................................................................. 21
Port of Houston Authority Expands Gate Automation with OCR Systems ..................................................................... 21
PHA Partnerships ............................................................................................................................................................. 21
PHA’s Truck Registry and Drayage Exchange (TRADE) ............................................................................................... 21
PHA Idling Program ......................................................................................................................................................... 21
PHA Container Tracking Mobile App.............................................................................................................................. 21
Bayport Expansion and Increased Efficiency ................................................................................................................... 22
Utilization of Clean Operating, Faster Cranes .................................................................................................................. 22
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City of Houston ..................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Additional Charging Stations ........................................................................................................................................... 22
Houston Bike Share Program ........................................................................................................................................... 22
Safe Passage Ordinance and Complete Streets Policy...................................................................................................... 22
Metal Recyclers Task Force ............................................................................................................................................. 22
Routine Maintenance in the Clinton Area ........................................................................................................................ 23
City of Houston Voluntary Environmental Compliance Agreements .............................................................................. 23
SPACE Units .................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Anti-Idling Policy ............................................................................................................................................................. 23
Houston Airport System Emissions Reductions ............................................................................................................... 23
Harris County Enhanced Enforcement Program for Smoking Vehicles ............................................................................... 23
Fort Bend County Clean Electric Utility Project .................................................................................................................. 24
TxDOT Ferry Project ............................................................................................................................................................ 24
Energy Efficiency Projects.................................................................................................................................................... 24
Railroad Projects ................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Refurbished Switcher Engines .......................................................................................................................................... 24
Engine Anti-Idling Controls ............................................................................................................................................. 24
Port Terminal Railroad Association Dust Control ............................................................................................................ 25
Regulatory Projects ............................................................................................................................................................... 25
EPA’s Control of Emissions from Ships .......................................................................................................................... 25
Federal Motor Vehicle Control Program .......................................................................................................................... 25
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality ................................................................................................................. 26
Industry Projects ............................................................................................................................................................... 26
Other ................................................................................................................................................................................. 26
Potential and Future Projects ................................................................................................................................................ 27
H-GAC & Partner Projects ................................................................................................................................................... 27
Clean Vehicles Program ................................................................................................................................................... 27
Second Regional TERP .................................................................................................................................................... 27
DOE Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Electric Hybrid Truck Demonstration Project ........................................................................ 27
DOE Zero-Emission Delivery Vehicle Demonstration Project ........................................................................................ 27
PM Filter Outreach Campaign .......................................................................................................................................... 27
City of Houston ..................................................................................................................................................................... 28
One Bin for All ................................................................................................................................................................. 28
Port of Houston Authority (PHA) ......................................................................................................................................... 28
Expanded Drayage Truck Replacement – DERA grant with Port of Houston Authority ................................................ 28
Future Dust Suppression Projects ..................................................................................................................................... 28
Implementation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) ........................................................................................... 28
Implementation/enforcement of Idling Reduction Program ............................................................................................. 28
Port of Houston Industrial Complex (POH).......................................................................................................................... 29
Overweight container route between Port of Houston and Port of Freeport .................................................................... 29
Barge transport/return of empty shipping containers from the Port of Freeport to Port of Houston ................................ 29
Railroad Projects ................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Replacement of railroad switcher engines ........................................................................................................................ 29
METRO................................................................................................................................................................................. 29
Light Rail Extensions ....................................................................................................................................................... 29
Commuter Rail ................................................................................................................................................................. 29
Alternative Fuel Program ................................................................................................................................................. 29
Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................................................ 29
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Introduction
Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC)
The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is the regionwide voluntary association of local governments for the 13county Gulf Coast Planning region of Texas. H-GAC is also the
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the eight-county
HGB area. This area includes Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend,
Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller Counties.
The scope of this report focuses on the eight-county HGB area.
Overall Program Objective
The Particulate Matter (PM) Advance Program is a voluntary,
collaborative effort between local government and key
stakeholders to continue to meet the PM2.5 National Ambient Air
Quality Standard (NAAQS) (12.0 μg/m3) which was made
effective December 14, 2012. The NAAQS are health-based
national ambient air quality standards per the Clean Air Act.
Another program goal is to foster an understanding of local air
quality issues and promote implementation of near-term initiatives that maintain and/or improve ambient PM2.5
levels.
Mission of the Local Program
The mission is to promote, identify, expand and improve voluntary PM reduction efforts (both existing and
potential future opportunities) within the areas where compliance with the 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS is at risk. The
plan can also serve as a catalyst to encourage voluntary accelerated implementation of current clean air
strategies and encourage additional voluntary participation in PM reduction efforts such as H-GAC’s Clean
Vehicles program. Program participation does not create or remove any statutory or regulatory requirements but
can serve as an early action framework to maintain compliance with air quality standards. Voluntary
participation in PM Advance will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to voluntarily promote PM reduction
efforts and take advantage of funding opportunities.
Voluntary Program Scope
Participation in PM Advance allows the region to create a collaborative platform to identify potential PM
reductions efforts for an impacted area. Program participants have worked together voluntarily to develop this
path forward to meet the stated mission of the local program. Please note, this path forward is a living document
which may be evaluated and updated periodically. Program participation does not create or remove any
statutory or regulatory requirements but can serve as an early action framework to maintain compliance with air
quality standards. Voluntary participation in PM Advance will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to
voluntarily promote PM reduction efforts and take full advantage of available funding opportunities for projects
that may reduce area PM emissions.
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The Region
Geography, Population & Employment
Population and Employment Forecast
H-GAC is the region-wide voluntary association of local
governments for the 13-county Gulf Coast Planning region
of Texas. Its service area is 12,500 square miles and
contains more than 6 million people1.
H-GAC is also the Metropolitan Planning Organization
(MPO) for the eight-county Houston-Galveston-Brazoria
area (HGB region). This area includes Brazoria,
Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty,
Montgomery and Waller Counties, a region of more than
8,000 square miles and 5 million residents.
Sources: 2010 US Census, H-GAC Demographic Forecast People & Jobs 1970-2040
Population, Employment & Economy
The eight-county HGB region has experienced dramatic
changes in its population size and composition over the
last few decades, and these trends are expected to
continue. The region is projecting a significant increase in
population and employment over the next 25 years.
According to the 2010 US Census, the region had 5.9
million residents and 2.6 million jobs. By 2040, the region
is expected to add 3.3 million more people for a total of
9.2 million residents. Similarly for jobs, the region is
expected to create an additional 1.5 million jobs for a total
of 4.1 million. Projected population growth will also result
in economic changes stemming from increased purchasing
power and tax revenue.
HGB Transportation System
Source: 2040 RTP
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
Transportation System
The HGB region has over 10,000 miles of highways and
nearly 20,000 miles of major arterial streets. There are
4,400 miles of scheduled, fixed bus route transit service,
and over 200 miles of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)
lanes. The region also includes roughly 500 designated
on-street bicycle miles and over 400 trails and bikeways.
The HGB region’s transportation system also includes
freight rail, ports, airports, and pipelines.
2035
2025
2018
2010
0
100
VMT Millions
200
300
2035 RTP Update
2010
160,958,354
2018
190,214,985
2025
221,316,401
2035
274,537,215
2035 RTP
155,389,128
195,828,165
213,174,508
270,121,458
Vehicle Miles Traveled and Congestion
In 2010, the HGB region’s daily vehicle miles traveled
(VMT) was approximately 160 million miles. By 2035, daily VMT are expected to increase to over 275 million
miles, an increase of over 71%. Congestion remains a major challenge facing the HGB region. Morning and
evening peak hours continue to expand as do the number of commuters travelling to and from work.
1
Source: U.S. Census Bureau. Mid-Year Population Estimates for H-GAC Region Counties. March 2013
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Air Quality Background: What Is Air Pollution?
Air pollution occurs when the air contains gases, particles, fumes or odors that are harmful to the health and/or
comfort of humans and animals or which could cause damage to plants and materials.
The substances that cause air pollution are called pollutants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
has set both primary and secondary standards (National Ambient Air Quality Standards or NAAQS) for six
“criteria” pollutants including particulate matter.
H-GAC and its partners continue to work to reduce air pollution and help the region meet these federal air
quality standards. The region has made considerable progress over the last few
years.
Particulate Matter (PM)
Particle pollution is a complex mixture of extremely small particles (particulate
matter or PM). Particle pollution is made up of a number of components, including
acids (such as nitrates and sulfates), condensable emissions, ammonium sulfate,
organic chemicals, metals, and dirt, soil or dust particles.
EPA groups particle pollution into two categories: Inhalable coarse particles (PM10)
and fine particles (PM2.5). The size of particles is directly linked to their potential for
causing health problems. Particles that are smaller than 10 micrometers in diameter (PM10 and PM2.5) are able to
pass through the throat and lungs and can cause serious health effects. Fine particulates (PM2.5) are generally
emitted in vehicle exhaust and from activities such as industrial and residential combustion. Based on
monitoring data, the Clinton Drive monitor, located near the Port of Houston, measured air quality at or near the
PM2.5 limit under the Clean Air Act.
Past and Present Status of PM2.5 in HGB
The HGB region has made significant improvements in PM2.5 levels over the past ten years. HGB is currently
designated as unclassified/attainment for the particulate matter standards for both PM2.5 (15 μg/m3 annual and
30 μg/m3 24-hr)) and PM10 (150 μg/m3). In 2012, EPA strengthened the primary annual NAAQS for fine
particles (PM2.5) to 12.0 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3). The agency also retained the existing standards
for coarse particle pollution (PM10).
Pollutant
Primary NAAQS
Averaging Period
Designation
Particulate Matter
(PM2.5)
12.0 µg/m3(2012 standard)
Annual (Arithmetic
Mean)
Pending
15.0 µg/m3(1997 standard)
Annual (Arithmetic
Mean)
Attainment/ Unclassifiable
35 µg/m3
24-hour
Attainment/ Unclassifiable
Air monitoring data collected, compiled, and validated by the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality
(TCEQ) identifies the certified PM2.5 annual design value2 for 2010-2012 as 12.1 micrograms per cubic meter
2
A design value is a statistic that describes the air quality status of a given location relative to the level of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
PM2.5 design values are based on the annual primary PM2.5 standard of 12.0 micrograms per cubic meter. This design value is calculated using an annual arithmetic
mean, averaged over 3 years (EPA, 2014).
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(µg/m3)3. Preliminary 2013 PM2.5 data4 indicate a decline in PM2.5 averages in the HGB region (see table
below).
Preliminary Annual PM2.5 Averages for Clinton, Aldine and Baytown Monitors5
18
Annual Average (μg/m3)
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
Annual Standard
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
12
Clinton
15.9
16
15.6
14
12.6
12.3
12.2
11.8
11.4
Aldine
13.8
12.8
12.9
11.8
11.6
11.9
11.5
11.2
10.9
Baytown
12.9
10.2
11
10.9
10.9
10.8
11.9
10.6
9.8
TCEQ has proposed seven exceptional event6 days during the 2010 through 2012 period: three in 2010, one in
2011, and three in 2012. TCEQ has submit demonstration documents to EPA for each of those years. EPA has
until December 17, 2014 to make a decision on whether or not to concur with these proposed exceptional
events. If all seven proposed exceptional events are concurred by EPA, the 2010-2012 annual design value will
be 12.0 ug/m3 and compliant. At the very least, HGB must obtain concurrence on all four of the 2010-2011
events OR for all four of the 2011-2012 events in order for the 2010-2012 design value to show compliance
with 12.0 ug/m3. Clinton would also show compliance for 2010-2012 if at least five of the six events from 2010
and 2012 are concurred.
EPA will promulgate final area designations for the 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS by no later than December 12, 2014.
Air monitoring data can be retrieved from the TCEQ Texas Air Monitoring Information System (TAMIS) web:
http://www5.tceq.state.tx.us/tamis/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.welcome .
Houston-Galveston Brazoria (HGB) Monitoring Network
Since 1971, the monitoring system in the HGB region has expanded to become the most comprehensive
ambient air monitoring network in the country. The City of Houston, Harris County, University of Houston,
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and Houston Regional Monitoring Corporation (HRM)
operate these monitors. Most of these monitoring stations measure the concentrations of the criteria pollutants in
the air, as well as air temperature, wind velocity, and other meteorological parameters. Some of the monitoring
3
4
Preliminary Clinton Drive monitoring data (TCEQ, 2013).
2013 data is uncertified, incomplete and subject to change.
5
Exceptional events have only been removed from the 2010 through 2012 annual averages at Clinton. 2013 data is based on Q1-3 only, is not validated and is subject
to change. Source: TCEQ 2013
6
In accordance with the language in section 319, EPA is defining the term ‘exceptional event’’ to mean an event that: (i) Affects air quality; (ii) Is not reasonably
controllable or preventable;(iii) Is an event caused by human activity that is unlikely to recur at a particular location or a natural event; and (iv) Is determined by EPA
through the process established in these regulations to be an exceptional event.
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stations also measure the levels of an additional set of selected chemicals, and some measure pollen and mold
spores.
The following table of monitoring sites lists the HGB PM2.5 monitors which are also considered Federal
Reference Method (FRM) monitors by the EPA (including Clinton, Aldine and Baytown). They utilize the
appropriate sampling and analysis methods and quality assurance/ quality control (QA/QC) protocols for use in
determining attainment demonstration status with the fine particulate matter standard (also see PM 2.5 monitor
map below). There are numerous additional PM2.5 monitors within our region that are not considered FRM
monitors by EPA. The monitoring data from these other sites are used by TCEQ to help understand air quality
data and trends and help predict possible alerts.
HGB Region PM2.5 FRM Monitoring Sites
Region
AQS
Number
Name
CAMS
ID
Address
Sampler
Type
Network
Designation
Operating
Schedule
24 hours;
1/6 days; 24
hours; daily
(Apr-Aug
FRM only)
24 hours;
1/6 days
12
481671034 Galveston
99th
Street
C1034
9511 Avenue
V½, Galveston
Airport,
Galveston
PM2.5
(FRM)
SPM
12
482010024
Houston
Aldine
C0008
PM2.5
(FRM)
SLAMS
12
482010058
Baytown
C0148
482011035
Clinton
C0403
12
482011035
Clinton
C0403
12
482011039
Houston
Deer Park
#2
C0035
PM2.5
(FRM)
PM2.5
(FRM)
PM2.5
(FRM)
collocated
PM2.5
(FRM)
SLAMS
12
4510½ Aldine
Mail Road,
Houston
7210½ Bayway
Drive, Baytown
9525 Clinton
Drive, Houston
9525 Clinton
Drive, Houston
4514½ Durant
Street, Deer
Park
SLAMS
SPM
NCore
24 hours;
1/3 days
24 hours;
daily
24 hours;
1/6 days
24 hours;
1/3 days
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HGB NO2 Near-Road Monitor(s)
Two NO2 near-road monitors are planned for HGB. The first HGB NO2 near-road monitor - located at 5617
Westward Street in Houston - was deployed on January 15, 2014. This NO2 near-road monitor (CAMS 1066 Houston Southwest Freeway, AQS No. 48211066) is located within a utility easement across the highway from
the Hillcroft Transit Center. TCEQ is currently in the process of selecting the second NO2 near-road monitor
with input from area stakeholders.
Preliminary data for this first NO2 monitor are now available and shows levels are below the NAAQS. The
highest level at this monitor was 41.2 ppm on January 25, at 7:00 p.m. The higher levels are interspersed
throughout the day at this monitor.
Preliminary Data for Houston Southwest Freeway Near-Road Air Monitor Site: 482011066, CAMS: 1066
Monthly Max
Monthly SH
Monthly Min
Monthly Avg
Monthly STD
Monthly
Cap
41.2
40.7
-1
15.9
9.9
29.30%
1/25/2014 19:00
1/25/2014 20:00
1/31/2014 1:00
-- -- -- --- -- -- --- -- -- -Data
for
this
site
can
be
accessed
http://www5.tceq.texas.gov/tamis/index.cfm?fuseaction=report.view_site&CAMS=1066.
at:
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PM2.5 Composition in HGB
The following two tables show the annual average reconstructed mass speciation data from 2006 through 2011
at the Aldine and Clinton Drive FRM monitors7. Data from these two monitors indicate that the predominant
components of PM2.5 at these locations is ammonium sulfate and organic carbon.
Primary and secondary emissions
Need further focus on secondary PM2.5
Ammonium Sulfate
 According to TCEQ, the differences in 2012 average ammonium sulfate concentrations between
monitors suggest that regional transport is a dominant source of ammonium sulfate
 ammonium sulfate atmospheric particulate forms from a chemical reaction in the atmosphere between
o Sulfur dioxide emissions from vehicles, combustion, and other sources
o Ammonia present in the atmosphere
 Reducing SO2 may reduce ambient PM2.5 as sulfur compounds may be the limiting reactant.
Organic Carbon


sources of organic carbon as PM2.5 particulate matter are less well understood
substantial part of the organic carbon is secondary, formed from reactions in the air that transform VOC
and semi-volatile SVOCs into less volatile materials
Aldine Annual Average Reconstructed Mass
Clinton Drive Annual Average Reconstructed Mass
EC: Elemental Carbon
NH4NO3: Ammonium Nitrate
OC: Organic Carbon
(NH4)2SO2: Ammonium Sulphate
μg/m3: micrograms per cubic meter
7
Source: TCEQ presentation to PM Advance Task Force of the Regional Air Quality Planning Committee,
Houston Galveston Area Council, September 24, 2013, located at http://www.h-gac.com/agendas/raqpc/default.aspx
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HGB PM2.5 Inventory
The following PM2.5 inventory is based on TCEQ’s adjusted 2011 National Emissions Inventory (NEI) data.
The NEI is a comprehensive and detailed estimate of air emissions of both criteria and hazardous air pollutants
from all air emissions sources. The NEI is prepared every three years by the EPA based primarily upon
emission estimates and emission model inputs provided by State, Local, and Tribal air agencies for sources in
their jurisdictions, and supplemented by data developed by the USEPA. The 2011 NEI was built from emissions
data in the Emissions Inventory System (EIS).
This data is split into four emission categories: point, non-point (area), on-road mobile and non-road mobile,
and events. Point sources are individually inventoried and usually located at a fixed, stationary location (e.g.
large industrial facilities, electric power plants, dry cleaners and gas stations), although portable sources are also
included (e.g., some rock crushing operations). Non-point and area sources include area sources that are
inventoried collectively because they are too small in magnitude or too numerous to inventory as individual
point sources, and which can often be estimated more accurately as a single aggregate source (e.g., residential
heating, consumer solvent use or commercial marine vessel emissions). On-road mobile sources include
emissions from vehicles found on roads and highways (e.g., cars, trucks, buses); while non-road mobile sources
include mobile sources not found on roads and highways (e.g., lawn mowers, construction vehicles, farm
machinery).
TCEQ PM2.5 Inventory for HGB8
HGB PM2.5 in Tons Per Year, 2011 NEI
Non-Road Mobile
On-Road Mobile
18%
Area Source
Point Source
5% 5%
72%
TCEQ’s adjusted 2011 NEI data follows the same quality assurance and quality control process as data in the Reasonable Further
Progress (RFP) and Attainment Demonstration (AD) State Implementation Plan (SIP).
8
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HGB PM2.5 Emissions by County, 2011 NEI
Emissions, Tons per Year
25,000
20,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
0
TCEQ PM2.5 Inventory
TCEQ PM2.5 in Tons Per Year
Brazoria
Chambers
Fort bend
Galveston
Harris
Liberty
Montgomery
Waller
Total
Non-Road Mobile
192.32
33.73
168.96
247.64
1,490.56
65.99
151.08
33.92
2,384.20
On-Road Mobile
105.59
89.22
161.94
95.70
1,794.99
60.53
199.81
42.01
2,549.79
Area Source
4,485.76
1,098.25
3,334.43
1,363.36
12,445.15
2,658.58
6,788.87
1,418.63
33,593.03
Point Source
1,316.99
291.43
605.83
1,045.86
4,871.06
4.81
101.56
7.34
8,244.88
Sources: TCEQ Data Sources: 2011 rail and locomotive – 2011, 2011 area source v2, 2011 commercial marine vessels, 2011 aerr on road annual criteria, 2011
nonroad annual criteria pollutants, 2011 aviation - nif nonroad, point source data obtained from the state of texas air reporting system (STARS) on january 22, 2014.
Emissions data reported by sites that met the tceq reporting requirements as stated in 30 texas administrative code, section 101.10 for the given year. The data is
subject to revisions or updates.
Harris County PM2.5 Inventory Summary 9
Recent ambient air quality monitoring data indicate that the Clinton Drive PM2.5 monitor (located within Harris
County) may be close to nonattainment. Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC), in partnership with
Harris County, has spearheaded an effort to further investigate sources of PM2.5 within Harris County.
This inventory summary is broken down into three categories of emissions: point, non-point and mobile
sources, using NEI inventory definitions above.
9 Harris County CIAP Program on PM2.5 sources. Data source originally TCEQ with slight changes to numbers related to road and construction dust as per “transport”
model (slightly lower because local vegetation and land use consumes some of the PM 2.5).
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Program Development Process
The H-GAC Regional Air Quality Planning Advisory Committee (RAQPAC) (representing local governments,
citizen/environmental groups and business/industry) examined potential voluntary actions to quickly reduce
levels of fine particulate matter. In 2013, RAQPAC proposed the development of a voluntary action plan to
reduce PM2.5 emissions in our region (participation in PM Advance).
At its June 2013 meeting, the H-GAC Board of Directors authorized H-GAC staff to develop voluntary
strategies to reduce fine particulate matter as recommended by RAQPAC and the PM2.5 Task Force.
Area Stakeholders/ Consultation Process
The PM2.5 Task Force is made up of RAQPAC members from the business/ industry sector, citizen/
environmental sector and local government, other agency staff (TCEQ and EPA), interested public and H-GAC
staff. The PM2.5Task Force has also been open to public participation since formation of the committee in
January 2013. The Task Force met several times since Board authorization to participate in the program.
Meetings included a discussion and review of past, present and potential future PM reduction projects within
the eight-county HGB ozone nonattainment area amongst RAQPAC members, stakeholders and interested
public. Task Force meetings have also included presentations on PM2.5 composition in Houston by TCEQ and
others.
The Task Force has developed the following program development process for the Path Forward. This timeline
includes an anticipated presentation of the Path Forward document to the H-GAC Board in April 2014, and
anticipated submission to EPA in May 2014. Status updates of Path Forward efforts will be ongoing following
the submission to EPA, with an informal status update annually or as requested by the H-GAC Board of
Directors.
1. Formation of RAQPAC PM Advance Task Force, January 2013
2. First PM Advance Task Force meeting, February 25, 2013
3. Ongoing PM Advance Task Force meetings – open to public participation
 February 25, 2013
 March 11, 2013
 March 19, 2013
 April 15, 2013
 May 9, 2013
 May 21, 2013
 August 8, 2013
 September 12, 2013
 September 24, 2013
 November 12, 2013
 January 9, 2014
 February 25, 2014
 Additional meetings, ongoing from February 2013 – April 2014
4. RAQPAC Recommendation to H-GAC Board Regarding Participation in EPA PM Advance
Program, May 30, 2013
5. PM Advance Task Force call for projects for inclusion in program, ongoing from January 2013 –
March 2014
6. HGAC Board approved the submission of notice to EPA of intent to participate in PM Advance,
June 18, 2013
7. PM2.5 Advance Sign Up Letter submitted to EPA, July 16, 2013
8. PM Advance Program Welcome Letter received from EPA, August 9, 2013
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9. Ongoing PM Advance Task Force call for projects for inclusion in program – and engage sectors
to engage plan, January 2013 – March 2014
10. Briefed AERCO on program, November, 2013
11. Integrate Transportation Air Quality Subcommittee to H-GAC Technical Advisory Committee
(TAC), October 3, 2013 & February 11, 2014
12. Negotiate contract with consultant for technical assistance, August – Nov.2013
13. States Recommendations on 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS designations, Dec. 2013
14. PM Advance Task Force Developing Draft Path Forward November 2013 - March 2014
Anticipated
15. Path Forward Review by Task Force, December 2013 – April 2014
16. Post Draft Path Forward on RAQPAC website for public review (September – May 2014)
17. Share Path Forward with RAQPAC as information item, March 2014
18. Present Path Forward to RAQPAC and TAC, April 2014
19. Present Path Forward to H-GAC Board of Directors and Transportation Policy Council (TPC),
May 2014
20. Submit Path Forward to EPA, June 2014
21. Post Final Path Forward on RAQPAC website, June 2014
22. Engage public to distribute Path Forward and explain PM Advance Program
23. Implement/Track Path Forward Efforts, ongoing
24. Revisit/Adjust Path Forward document, periodically (anticipated)
25. Final Designations for PM2.5 NAAQS, Dec. 2014 (anticipated)
26. Informal Status Update to EPA, annually (anticipated)
14 | P a g e
Past and Present Initiatives
H-GAC Emission Reduction Strategies
H-GAC has partnered with local and regional government agencies, citizen and environmental groups, business
and industry-based organizations and other stakeholders to proactively pursue air quality improvements within
our region. A number of emission reduction programs are underway at H-GAC due to the region’s ozone non
attainment status. These programs have multi-pollutant benefits; despite their main focus on reducing groundlevel ozone, they also result in significant PM2.5 reductions.
2013 Air Quality Program Emission Reductions / Metrics
Air Quality Program
NOx
(tons)
VOC
(tons)
2013
Reductions
120.86
PM2.
5
(tons)
0.02
2013 Clean Vehicles
0.099
Clean School Bus
3.16
0.08
Regional TERP 2
7.80
Drayage Loan
Total Repairs/ Replacements
2013
Progr
Funding ($)
NA
85
$1.2 million
0.13
NA
17
$7.7 million
√√
√√
NA
1
$78 million
69.72
1.53
√√
NA
59
$5.6 million
NuRide
7.30
√√
10.93
17,354,264
12,506 active NuRiders
$339 thousand
METRO Vanpool
28.95
√√√
30.34
60,753,527
$5 million
Commuter and Transit Services
Pilot Projects
3.43
√√
4.61
9,636,444
Telework
1.98
√√
2.97
8,242,810
Clean Cities
√√
√√
√√
√√
25,000 users from over 1,700
organizations
17 pilot projects since
beginning of program, serving
over 437,644 riders in 2013
1,800
teleworkers
participating
NA
DOE Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Electric
Hybrid Truck Demonstration
DOE
Zero-Emission
Delivery
Vehicle Demonstration Project
NA
NA
NA
NA
20 ZEV trucks
$34 million
NA
NA
NA
30 zero emission medium-duty
trucks
$2 million
Voluntary
Idling
Reduction
Program*
PM2.5 Advance Program*
√√
√√
√√
Reduce
250,000
gallons of diesel fuel
(2 year demo)
TBD
√√
√√√
√√
TBD
NA
Clean Vessels
reductions)
AirCheck Texas
540
5.7
NA
NA
7 (3 complete)
Potential prio
funding
$1 million
√√
√√
√√
NA
2,750
$2.5 million
NA
NA
NA
$3.5 million o
last 4 years
over 365 miles of existing &
funded facilities
17 Livable Centers completed
(project
life
Local Initiative Projects
VMT
Bike and Pedestrian Program
√√
√√
√√
√√
Livable Centers
2.7
3.5
NA
Our Great Region 2040
NA
NA
NA
465 new transit trips
&
4,346
VMT
reductions
√√
$368 thousand
$562 thousand
NA
Our Great Region 2040 plan
will be complete in early 2014
15 | P a g e
Clean Vehicles Program
Since 1995, the Clean Vehicles Program has provided grant assistance to retrofit and replace older diesel
engines in both public and private fleets within the HGB region. Since its start, the program has provided over
$78 million in financial aid, replaced over 2,700 engines and developed several alternative fueling stations. In
total, the Clean Vehicles Program has reduced over 0.114 tons of PM2.5 emissions.
Clean Vehicles Program PM2.5 Reductions
0.045
0.0406
Realized/Committed PM2.5 Reductions (tpy)
0.04
0.0394
0.0373
0.035
0.03
0.025
0.02
0.015
0.0115
0.01
0.005
2013
2012
2011
2009
2010
0.0010
0
Clean School Bus Program
The goal of the H-GAC Clean School Bus program is to reduce children’s exposure to diesel exhaust and
reduce the amount of air pollution created by diesel school buses. Over 25 million children ride the school bus
every day. It is the largest form of mass transportation in the United States.
The Clean School Bus program aims to reduce pollution from these school buses by supporting community and
outreach events, promoting clean school bus technology, educating the general public, hosting workshops,
securing program sponsorship and supporting federal and state funding initiatives for bus projects.
The Clean School Bus program serves the Angelina, Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend,
Galveston, Hardin, Harris, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton,
Orange, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Trinity, Tyler, Walker, Waller, and Wharton. To date, the HGAC Clean School Bus Program has provided over $8 million towards clean school bus projects. In 2013, the
Clean School Bus program replaced over 17 buses resulting in 0.08 tons of PM2.5 reductions in that year alone.
Regional Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP)
From 2008-2011, the first Regional Texas Emission Reduction Plan (Regional TERP) was commended by
TCEQ as being one of the most successful first round of third party TERP contracts. The first round of
Regional TERP provided $3,566,859 in grant funds to establish a NOx emission reduction of approximately
407 tons. This produced an investment of $8,749.36 per ton of NOx reduction and also helped leverage funds
in the Drayage Loan Program and replace 46 drayage trucks.
16 | P a g e
Drayage Loan Program
Since 2010, the H-GAC Drayage Loan Program has offered independent owner operator and/or trucking
companies servicing HGB ports the opportunity to apply for financing to support the purchase of cleaner, safer
and more fuel efficient drayage trucks. Almost 900 tons of NOx reductions and 14 tons of PM emission
reductions are anticipated over the life of the program. This program has been a collaborative effort between HGAC, Environmental Defense Fund and the Port of Houston Authority.
Clean Vessels for Texas Waters
In 2011, EPA awarded H-GAC almost $1 million to repower 3 high-emitting tug vessels with 8 new, cleaner
engines. Vessels being repowered mainly operate in the HGB non-attainment area—docking ships and fueling
marine vessels. The project has already completed the replacement of 6 engines, with the last 2 scheduled for
re-fit in 2014. This project will result in the reduction of over 5.7 tons of PM.
Air Contaminant
NOx
PM
CO
GHGs
Total Reductions Over Total
Cost
Project Life
Effectiveness
540 tons
$1,835 per ton
5.7 tons
$172,826 per ton
51.8 tons
$19,118 per ton
5,131 tons
$1,144 per ton
Commute Solutions: Ride Match (NuRide)
NuRide is one of the largest and most successful incentive-based online rideshare programs in the nation.
NuRide rewards people for trips in which they choose to walk, bike, telecommute, carpool, vanpool, take
transit, or work a compressed week. To date the NuRide program has over 19,400 users from more than 1,530
organizations which have reduced more than 36 million vehicles miles traveled.
Commute Solutions: Regional Vanpool Program
STAR, the regional vanpool and rideshare program provided by METRO, is in its sixteenth year of operation
and is one of the largest programs of its kind in the nation. The program provides a 15-, 12-, or 7-passenger van
along with insurance, maintenance, roadside assistance and administrative coordination. Average fares are
about $135 per month, and the average round-trip traveled is 66 miles. Additionally, program participants
receive a $35 per month subsidy to help offset vanpool costs. Volunteers within the vanpool groups do the
driving. There are currently over 700 vanpools in operation with over 7,000 riders in the region.
17 | P a g e
Active Vanpool Participants


















METRO STAR Vanpool:
METRO Transit
NuRide
Enterprise Vanpool
VRide
Fort Bend County Transit
Fort Bend County Transit
Harris County Transit
BAYTRAN
TREK
Energy Corridor District
TxDOT
Port of Houston Authority
Rice University
Central Houston
South Main Alliance
Cousins
Gulf Coast Center
Commute Solutions: Commuter and Transit Services Pilot Projects
More than 13 pilot projects have been implemented in the HGB region using a combination of federal funds and
local matching funds. Over $520,000 of federal CMAQ funds was invested in 2011 - resulting in over
8,000,000 VMT reduced.
18 | P a g e
Energy Corridor District’s Carshare Program
The Energy Corridor in partnership with Enterprise Holdings provides commuters access to vehicles on days
they use a commute alternative. CarShare vehicles are available for hourly rental at two different sites for
personal or work errands throughout the day, with fuel, physical damage/liability protection, vehicle
maintenance, and 24/7 roadside and member assistance included.
Commute Solutions: Telework
The telework program helps regional employers and employees by educating about the benefits of teleworking
and offering financial incentives to develop and implement Telework and alternative work schedule programs.
Almost 1,800 teleworkers participated in the program in 2013, resulting in over 8 million VMT reduced.
Voluntary Idling Reduction Program
In 2012, in partnership with local governments, citizen and environmental groups, business and industry-based
organizations and other stakeholders H-GAC developed a voluntary idling reduction program and adopted a
voluntary diesel idling reduction policy. This anti-idling policy aims to lower nitrogen oxide (NOx) and other
emissions by placing a five-minute idle limit on motor vehicles. Along with promoting this voluntary policy
region-wide, H-GAC provides idling reduction bumper stickers and signs within our region free of charge. The
Port of Houston Authority has been a major partner in developing and supporting this program, posting over
100 idling reduction signs at the Turning Basin terminal within the Port.
The following organizations within the 8-county nonattainment region have anti-idling policies in place:
Alief ISD
Alvin ISD
Angelton ISD
Alain Garcia Independent Trucking
AT&T
Barbers Hill ISD
Brazosport ISD
City of Houston
City of Sugar Land
Clear Creek ISD
Columbia-Brazoria ISD
Conroe ISD
Crosby ISD
Cy-Fair ISD
Damon ISD
Danbury ISD
Davenport Transportation & Rigging
Dickinson ISD
Fast Trac Transportation
Fort Bend ISD
Friendswood ISD
Galena Park ISD
Galveston ISD
Goose Creek Consolidated ISD
Harris County
High Island ISD
Houston Astros
Houston ISD
Houston Biodiesel
Huffman ISD
Humble ISD
Jose Alfaro Independent Trucking
19 | P a g e
Klein ISD
Magnolia ISD
Museum Park Super Neighborhood
North Forest ISD
Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic School
Pasadena ISD
Pearland ISD
Port of Houston
Santa Fe ISD
Sheldon ISD
Spring ISD
Sweeny ISD
Texas City ISD
Tomball ISD
TXDOT
UPS
Waller ISD
Westside High School, HISD
Clean Air Education
Drive Clean Across Texas is the nation's first statewide public outreach and education campaign designed to
raise awareness and change attitudes about air pollution.
2010 Air Quality Reference Guide. The Air Quality Reference Guide provides up to date information about
air pollution in the Houston-Galveston region.
MySolutionIs.com. H-GAC has developed a single website address for all air quality initiatives and commute
solutions programs. This one website provides air quality information to promote awareness amongst area
residents, HR Management, Fleet management, partners and stakeholders. This site also includes upcoming
event information and links to recent air quality publications and educational resources.
Ozone Viewer Mobile App. The Houston Clean Air Network (Houston CAN) is a coalition of clean air
advocates and health, science and environmental professionals representing businesses, government agencies,
schools, community groups and the general public. The Houston CAN in partnership with Air Alliance
Houston, American Lung Association and others - has developed an Ozone Viewer Mobile App to help increase
education and awareness surrounding air quality in our area. This app can be viewed online at:
http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com/
Air Quality Forecast and PM Action Day E-Mail Alert system. TCEQ provides free e-mail alerts for the
Today's Texas Air Quality Forecast and PM Action Days for several metropolitan areas throughout Texas,
including the Houston area. The TCEQ informs the public typically a day in advance when conditions are
forecast to be favorable for high PM levels in any of the participating areas
Tree Planting Programs
Million Trees + Houston
The Million Trees + Houston program started by Mayor Bill White has planted more than a million new trees in
Houston in a 3-5 year period. The program has been coordinated by the Houston Parks and Recreation
Department in partnership with Trees for Houston. Other partners include Harris County, the Texas Department
of Transportation, and the Quality of Life Coalition.
Trees for Houston
Trees For Houston has planted nearly half a million trees in Houston.
20 | P a g e
Bayou Land Conservancy Annual Tree Planting
APACHE donated 150 trees to be planted at the Cypress Wildlife Preserve (16830 Ranger Ridge, Cypress, TX
77429) in January 2014.
Port of Houston Authority (PHA)
Dust Suppression
PHA completed the following dust suppression projects10:
 Regularly applied emulsified asphalt to reduce dust emissions at steel yards within the Terminal at
Turning Basin (since 2009); applied emulsified asphalt at Industrial Park East (IPE) and paving of 18
acres at IPE. Approximately 48 acres at IPE has been sprayed with emulsified asphalt since 2008.
 Paving Upper Level Road at Turning Basin, and adding capacity from two lanes to four lanes from the
main entry gate off of I- 610 to Port Coordination Center.
Port of Houston Authority Expands Gate Automation with OCR Systems
PHA implemented an APS Gate OCR Portal to automate equipment identification, traffic processing and
damage inspection imaging at the entry gate of the Bayport container terminal. The system automatically
identifies containers, chassis, and license plates associated with the equipment. Since implementation, PHA has
transformed the gate into a free-flowing process – processing takes about half the time it did prior to gate
automation. Gate OCR installation enabled PHA to process trucks twice as fast and reduced truck idling time by
48%, dramatically reducing emissions.
PHA Partnerships


Awarded $1.4 million to the Port of Houston to replace Port of Houston Authority cargo handling
equipment and repower the ‘Sam Houston’ tour boat;
Received $1.5 million grant as pass-thru to ocean-going shipping lines to demonstrate switching to
lower sulfur fuel in advance of the North American Emission Control Area timetable.
PHA’s Truck Registry and Drayage Exchange (TRADE)
As part of PHA’s efforts to exchange older engines with cleaner burning technologies; created public/private
partnerships with tenants and stakeholders to implement emission reduction strategies and policies; passed-thru
$2.2 million in grant funds to tenants and stakeholders for the replacement, repower, and retrofitting
engines/equipment; provided matching dollars as leverage for $9 million EPA SmartWay grant that funds the
Revolving Loan Program for drayage trucks.
PHA Idling Program
The Port of Houston has an idling program in place for all landside engines at the port, including heavy-duty
diesel trucks and cargo handling equipment.
PHA Container Tracking Mobile App
The Port has developed a mobile app that allows drivers to check on the status of a container and its pick up
availability. This app reduces the amount of waiting and idling at the Port. It is available for download at:
http://www.portofhouston.com/container-terminals/bayport/container-tracking-mobile-app/
10
Dust suppression projects have proven PM2.5 reduction benefits in HGB, not just PM10 benefits. Speciation data from the Clinton
monitor located near the Port of Houston show decreases in dust and soil following the implementation of dust suppression measures
at the port and near this monitor.
21 | P a g e
Bayport Expansion and Increased Efficiency
The Port of Houston Authority was awarded a $10 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic
Recovery (TIGER) grant to be used toward the expansion of the berth at its Bayport Container Terminal. The
grant helped fund the extension of Bayport's wharf and purchase three new electric, rail-mounted gantry cranes
to handle the increase in container throughput.
The project will allow Bayport to handle more than 2 million 20-foot-equivalent units (TEUs), doubling its
present capacity, and will help support international trade with more than 1,000 ports in more than 200
countries. Increased productivity as a result of the expansion is projected to reduce truck waiting and idling
times by an estimated 7.6 minutes on average.
Utilization of Clean Operating, Faster Cranes
The Port of Houston recently replaced 10 RTGs at Barbours Cut with 8 newer RTGs - 8 newer Tier 3 665 hp
RTGs have replaced 10 Tier 2 755 hp RTGs. These RTGs will operate about 2,500 hours a year. This is
possible because the older cranes average about 4 moves an hour while the new cranes average about 12 to 15
moves per hour.
City of Houston
Additional Charging Stations
Participation in Department of Energy’s (DOE) Elecrtic Vehicle (EV) Project, with partner Ecotality, added 77
additional Blink charging stations in Houston, including 24 at the airports and 29 in downtown Houston.
Through this program, participants, including the City of Houston and other businesses, received charging
stations at no cost and an additional credit to install the charging station.
Houston Bike Share Program
In April, 2013, the City expanded Houston Bike Share (www.houston.bcycle.com) to encourage biking in
Houston. Houston now has over 200 bikes and 28 kiosks throughout downtown and adjacent neighborhoods
(Montrose, Midtown, East End, Heights, and the Museum District). The Houston Bike Share program Phase III
expansion plans include bike share kiosks at the city’s universities, the Texas Medical Center, and additional
neighborhoods.
Safe Passage Ordinance and Complete Streets Policy
The City approved aSafe Passage ordinance in May 2013to keep bicyclists and pedestrians safer on city streets,
and encourage more outdoor activity. In October 2013, Mayor Parker unveiled a transformative new approach
for Houston streets that will accommodate the needs of all users, not just those behind the wheel. The Mayor’s
Complete Streets and Transportation Plan is meant to provide safe, accessible and convenient use by motorists,
public transit riders, pedestrians, people of all abilities and bicyclists. The new policy, detailed in a draft
executive order from the Mayor, will be achieved over time as improvements to existing roadways and
redevelopment occur.
Metal Recyclers Task Force
The City and a metal recyclers’ task force are working together in characterizing emissions from metal
recyclers, assessing the potential risks that may be posed by the emissions, recommending and implementing
best emissions-mitigating-practices, such as altering metal cutting methods to reduce fine particulate emissions.
A law was passed in 2011 to better regulate the recycling industry, increase recycling requirements (including
registration, etc.) which will reduce the theft of catalytic converters.
22 | P a g e
Routine Maintenance in the Clinton Area
The City of Houston performed a range of routine ongoing maintenance to reduce particulate matter and
suppress dust in the Clinton Drive area. In particular, the City has installed barriers to keep trucks from driving
onto the unpaved shoulder. Additionally, a traffic light was installed at Clinton Drive and Industrial Park East to
control traffic and a landscaping project was completed along Clinton Drive.
City of Houston Voluntary Environmental Compliance Agreements
The City and industrial businesses have voluntarily implemented environmental compliance agreements that
help reduce emissions. By these agreements businesses have modified operational controls minimizing
particulate and visible emissions, such as from painting and abrasive operations in the ship channel area.
SPACE Units
In 2011, 17 mobile solar-powered generators (SPACE units) were acquired through a partnership with the
University of Houston School of Architecture’s Green Building Components Program and placed at fire
stations, parks, neighborhood centers and schools; all of which reduce the use of diesel generators in an
emergency.
Anti-Idling Policy
The City of Houston has an anti-idling policy for municipal vehicles (A-P 2-2 Section 7.2.29). The City is
working on a community-wide anti-idling policy.
Houston Airport System Emissions Reductions
To reduce emissions from flights, winglets are being utilized to reduce noise by 6.5 %, reduce fuel consumption
by 6% and lower NOx emissions by 5%. Improvements to airfield runways, taxiways, and gates/ramp reducing
aircraft taxi and idle times which resulted in both fuel consumption and associated emissions and improve air
quality.
The Houston Airports have reduced the use of auxiliary power units (APUs). APUs are small on-board turbines
that are operated to provide electrical power and air conditioning to an aircraft when it is parked at a gate and
the main engines are shut down. Installation of gate electrification equipment enables parked aircraft to forego
the use of APUs which results in a reduction in both jet-fuel consumption and associated emissions.
Rental car companies operated out of separate facilities located both on airport and off-airport. Houston Airport
System constructed a Consolidated Rental Car Facility on airport property south of the terminal area,
significantly reducing the mix of numbers, types, and ages of the existing buses operated by the various rental
car companies. This resulted in a reduction in both diesel fuel consumption and associated emissions.
Harris County Enhanced Enforcement Program for Smoking Vehicles
The Harris County Sheriff’s Department, the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office, and the Precinct 5 Constable’s
Office have implemented an emissions enforcement program to ensure that all vehicles on our roads are in
compliance with air quality standards. This enforcement program will be conducted in collaboration with the
Harris County District Attorney’s office, the Harris County Judge’s office, the Harris County Attorney’s office,
the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Houston-Galveston Area Council. Law enforcement personnel
will target high emitting vehicles, smoking vehicles, and suspicious vehicles to verify that the state inspection
certificates attached to these vehicles are legitimate.
23 | P a g e
Fort Bend County Clean Electric Utility Project


NRG Energy added a 75-megawatt natural gas generating unit to its W.A. Parish power plant in Fort
Bend County
U.S. DOE and NRG are exploring a post-combustion carbon capture sequestration (CCS)demonstration
project at WA Parish near Houston. This will be among the first of its kind and is expected to begin
operating in 2015. The project will process flue gas from the plant equal in quantity to that of a 250 MW
unit, a level that can prove the technology's viability on a larger scale and deliver enough captured CO2
to support enhanced oil recovery in nearby oil fields. This commercial-scale demonstration is designed
to capture approximately 90 percent (or approximately one and a half million tons) of CO2 in the flue
gas annually. http://www.nrgenergy.com/responsibility/environmental/technologies/ccs.html
TxDOT Ferry Project
Energy Efficiency Projects
The following energy efficiency goals exist in the HGB region:
 The state has the Texas Energy Efficiency resource goal (20% Incremental Load Growth in 2011,
equivalent to ~0.10% annual savings; 25% in 2012, 30% in 2013 and onward:
www.aceee.org/sector/state-policy/texas .
 Texas
Renewable
Portfolio
Standard:
www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=TX03R&re=1&ee=1
 City of Houston adopted a Residential Buildings Energy Efficiency Code that is 15% in excess of the
state standard. Adopted January 8 2014.
 PHA has adopted an electrical contract, requiring 25% renewables
Railroad Projects
Refurbished Switcher Engines




Port Terminal Railroad Association (PTRA) is operating newly refurbished switcher engines.
PTRA and Union Pacific (UP) are operating newly refurbished switcher engines on the Clinton line.
UP currently has 52 new gensets11 in the Houston area.
UP has 13 Tier 2 locomotives being funded by Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP).
Engine Anti-Idling Controls

60% of UP switcher engines operating in the area have anti-idling control.

11
Genset locomotives are powered by ultra-low- emission diesel engines that are connected to electric generators, thus the
name "Generator-Set," or "Genset" switcher.
http://www.tceq.texas.gov/assets/public/implementation/air/sip/hgb/hgb_mveb_2012/12002SIP_ado_complete.pdf
24 | P a g e
Port Terminal Railroad Association Dust Control

Port Terminal Railroad Association (PTRA) has stopped the steel loading activities on a dirt area to the
south of the Clinton Drive monitor.
Regulatory Projects
A number of regulatory projects have reduced fine particulate matter emissions in the HGB region. Some of
these initiatives are outlined below.
EPA’s Control of Emissions from Ships
In March 2010, the International Marine Organization (IMO) officially designated waters off North American
coasts as an Emission Control Area (ECA) with stringent international emission standards for ships. The firstphase fuel sulfur standard began in 2012. All marine diesel fuels used by ships in the North American ECA are
now limited to a maximum fuel sulfur content of 10,000 ppm (1 %).
Federal Motor Vehicle Control Program
The Federal Motor Vehicle Control Program that is continuing to reduce exhaust emissions from both light duty
and heavy duty vehicles. As per the 2012 HGB MVEB Update SIP Revision (2012-002-SIP-NR)…
“Using the summer weekday as an example, the eight-county HGB on-road NOX emissions are reduced by
roughly 62% from the 2006 baseline (270.00 tpd) to the 2018 future case (103.34 tpd). The summer weekday
VOC emissions are reduced by roughly 52% from the 2006 baseline (104.74 tpd) to the 2018 future case (50.13
tpd). During these twelve years, summer weekday VMT is expected to grow by 26% from 143,408,584 miles per
day in 2006 to 180,955,402 miles per day in 2018, which is an average annualized growth rate of almost 2%. The
calculated emission reductions during a period of VMT growth are primarily attributable to more stringent engine
emission standards and fleet turnover. On-road emission estimates for both 2006 and 2018 include the benefits of
an inspection and maintenance program, reformulated gasoline, Texas Low Emission Diesel, and the ongoing
fleet turnover impacts from more stringent emission standards. Post-processing adjustments were not applied to
either the 2006 or 2018 on-road inventories for transportation control measures or voluntary mobile emission
reduction program measures. For more information on the development and EPS3 processing of these on-road
emission inventories, refer to Appendix A: Evaluation of On-Road Mobile Source Emissions Developed with the
MOVES2010a Model Replacing Emissions Developed with the MOBILE6.2 Model for the HGB Attainment
Demonstration SIP Revision for the 1997 Eight-Hour Ozone Standard, Adopted March 10, 2010 of this SIP
revision.”
Summary of 2006 Baseline and 2018 Baseline Anthropogenic Modeling Emissions for HGB
Source
2006
2006
2006
2018
2018
2018
Type
Baseline
Baseline
Baseline
Baseline
Baseline
Baseline
NOX (tpd)
VOC (tpd) CO (tpd)
NOX (tpd)
VOC (tpd) CO (tpd)
Point
172.86
241.00
132.25
154.36
292.05
222.06
On-Road
270.00
104.74
1024.03
103.35
50.13
656.24
Non-Road
79.33
61.41
572.37
33.62
30.18
427.56
Off-Road
73.26
5.75
52.30
85.66
6.68
44.71
Area
36.35
528.99
134.59
42.04
650.09
158.99
Totals
631.80
941.89
1915.54
419.03
1029.13
1509.56
Tier 3 emission standards
The Tier 3 emission standards include a lower PM emission standard for light-duty gasoline vehicles
beginning in 2017 and phasing in through 2025. This means that in addition to the 2007 PM standards for
heavy-duty diesel that is reducing PM emissions in the near term as the fleet turns over, on-road vehicle PM
25 | P a g e
emissions will continue to decrease in future. The below table shows the effect of Tier 3 emission standards
over the heavy-duty diesel standards reduction in PM emissions in the years 2018 and 2030.
12
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality


In the past four years the TCEQ has worked with the EPA Region 6, the City of Houston, Harris County
Commissioner, Port of Houston Authority, Port Terminal Rail Authority and local industry to address
PM2.5 sources and implement strategies to reduce emissions.
The TCEQ approved a supplemental environmental project to pave the parking lot directly adjacent
to the monitoring station. The paving was completed in summer 2009
Industry Projects





In 2003, Shell Deer Park installed a wet gas scrubber on its catalytic cracker back to reduce SO2 and
PM13 emissions. The Flexible air permit after the CCU scrubber was installed was as follows: PM
(hourly) equals - 14.0 lb/hr and PM(annual) equals - 61.32 TPY.
DuPont, a PHA tenant, has implemented new dust control best management practices at its fluorspar
unloading and storage facility.
Valero Refining has already implemented control measures to reduce SO2 emissions by 3,500 tpy.
The Rhodia sulfuric acid plant was projected to decrease its SO2 emissions by 8,984 tpy from 2005
actual emissions by 2012.
Valero Asphalt paved its large leases located across Clinton Drive to the southeast of the monitor.
Other


1990’s – The EPA began a “National Petroleum Refinery Initiative”
2000’s – A 2011 draft presentation on the initiative stated that as of January 2011 “Approximately 90%
of the nation’s refinery capacity is under lodged or entered ‘global’ settlements”
12
http://www.epa.gov/otaq/tier3.htm
13
Note that this is PM, not PM2.5.
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Potential and Future Projects
These ideas are NOT commitments of future action. They are merely ideas, and their implementation would be
contingent on funding availability, and an affirmative commitment from the proposing agency. All ideas are
voluntary and would result in PM benefits.
H-GAC & Partner Projects
Clean Vehicles Program
The Clean Vehicles Program will continue to provide significant emission reductions within our region. This
program has funded retrofits and/or vehicle replacements of School buses, private fleets, drayage trucks, transit
vehicles and more. Since its start, the program has provided over $78 million in financial aid, replaced over
2,700 engines and developed several alternative fueling stations. In future, the Clean Vehicles Program will
continue to result in both PM and NOx emission reductions for our region.
Second Regional TERP
H-GAC received $3,000,000 from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to establish the
second Regional Texas Emission Reduction Program (TERP). The Regional TERP provides grants to local
governments for the replacement of non-road equipment and on-road vehicles powered by heavy duty diesel
engines, and aids in the replacement of drayage trucks associated with the Drayage Loan Program. Regional
TERP grant amounts are based upon the NOx reduction created by the equipment and vehicle replacement.
These replacements also result in PM2.5 reductions in the HGB area.
DOE Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Electric Hybrid Truck Demonstration Project
The U.S. Department of Energy provided a grant of $3.4 million for a three-year demonstration project
supporting the deployment of 20 zero emission Class 8 Hydrogen fuel cell-electric hybrid trucks at the Port of
Houston (POH). The purpose of the project is to deploy heavy-duty trucks fueled by hydrogen and to measure
and demonstrate operational cost-effectiveness, emissions reduction and commercial viability.
DOE Zero-Emission Delivery Vehicle Demonstration Project
The goal of H-GAC’s Zero Emission Truck project is to demonstrate the effectiveness of all-electric delivery
vehicles to perform in the Houston region. By deploying zero emission medium-duty trucks targeted for this
program, the project activity will reduce petroleum consumption and emissions of harmful air pollutants.
Project partners will assemble and deploy all-electric heavy-duty delivery vehicles and provide these vehicles to
partner fleets, which will operate trucks in the Houston-Galveston area. Each truck will be delivered with an
electric vehicle charging station (EVSE). H-GAC received more than $2 million from the U.S. Department of
Energy, which will provide grants of $60,000 to $75,000 per vehicle. The vehicles will be deployed and tested
over two years to measure emission reductions and evaluate vehicle performance.
PM Filter Outreach Campaign
H-GAC is considering the potential application and impact of a public outreach and education campaign for
drivers regarding the appropriate use and maintenance of PM filters and associated emission reduction
technology.
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City of Houston
One Bin for All
The City of Houston recently won a Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge grant award to implement
One Bin for All, a program which allows residents to discard all materials in one bin, treating trash as valuable
assets where up to 75% of the total Municipal Solid Waste may be separated and recycled. It is estimated that
the 75% waste stream generates approximately 7 TPY of PM2.5 and 13 TPY of PM10 emissions. Diverting
75% of the city’s waste stream would substantially reduce the city’s current PM emissions footprint and benefit
Houston in its ongoing efforts to improve air quality. The City has completed the RFQ process, is reviewing
the information received and expects to issue an RFP by early 2014. Project selection will be made based on
the One Bin objectives, including PM2.5 and other emissions reductions.
Port of Houston Authority (PHA)14
Expanded Drayage Truck Replacement – DERA grant with Port of Houston Authority
The Port of Houston Authority, in partnership with H-GAC, has submit a proposal to the EPA 2013 DERA
Projects to Improve Air Quality at Ports solicitation. The project, titled: Expanded Houston-Galveston Drayage
Truck Program, will achieve significant emission reductions by replacing 25-30 Class 8 drayage trucks
operating in the Port industrial complex. The project will involve multiple partners from government and
trucking sectors. Port of Houston Authority expects H-GAC will award project funds to an estimated one to five
drayage truck entities (Applicants/Trucker) to deploy a total of 25 to 30 new 2010-compliant trucks in place of
trucks model years 1995-2003. Funds granted to this program through the Projects to Improve Air Quality at
Ports 2013 DERA funding opportunity would reduce over 116 tons of NOx, 5 tons of PM2.5 and other diesel
emission pollutant reductions at the regional port industrial complex in the Houston-Galveston-Brazoria nonattainment area.
Future Dust Suppression Projects



Application of emulsified asphalt at Industrial Park East (IPE); starting in 2015, about 12 acres will be
paved. Approximately 36 acres will continue to have emulsified asphalt sprayed on it starting in 2015
Reconstruction of High level road from Main Gate to Port Coordination Center - High Level Road will
be reconstructed by widening this roadway from 2 12-foot lanes to 4 lanes total consisting of 3-13’ lanes
and 1-14’ lane for about 6,435 feet and then from 4 12-foot lanes to 4 lanes total consisting of 3-13’
lanes and 1-14’ lane for about 1,064 feet
Repaving entrance to Industrial Park East from Clinton Drive
Implementation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)

Synchronization of lights, electronic/optic gates, freight messaging for the operational improvement and
flow of freight traffic within the region and the Port of Houston/Ship Channel area. Capital projects =
improved efficiencies at Port
Implementation/enforcement of Idling Reduction Program

on-road/drayage and non-road
14
These ideas are NOT commitments of future action. They are merely ideas, and their implementation would be contingent on funding availability,
and an affirmative commitment from the proposing agency. These ideas can be considered as factors in the PM Advance discussion, but they
themselves are not open for discussion before RAQPAC. All ideas are voluntary and would result in PM benefits. Contingent on funding, and in
conjunction with TxDOT, railroads, the City of Houston, H-GAC, and Harris County
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Port of Houston Industrial Complex (POH)
Overweight container route between Port of Houston and Port of Freeport
o As per Ports: for every 4 overweight trucks trips allowed; the 5th truck could be taken off the
road
Barge transport/return of empty shipping containers from the Port of Freeport to Port of Houston
Railroad Projects
Replacement of railroad switcher engines
eg: Long haul locomotive demonstration operating on LNG
METRO
Light Rail Extensions

METRO has included current light rail extensions, i.e., Southeast, North Extension, East End LRT in the
RTP and have been modeled.
Commuter Rail

METRO has proposed the University LRT and 90A LRT Commuter Rail projects. These routes are also
included in the RTP and been modeled accordingly for conformity purposes.
Alternative Fuel Program

METRO is studying the possibility of transitioning their bus fleet to CNG through phasing.
Conclusion
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