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Appendix G - Methodologies to Evaluation Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality(CMAQ) Emissions Reductions for Projects Submitted for Funding

The Federal CMAQ Program Guidance is in Appendix L. The guidance specifies the “Projects funded under the CMAQ program must be expected to result in tangible reductions in CO, ozone precursors emissions, or PM-10 pollution”. Applications for CMAQ funding are encouraged to use the suggested emission reduction methodologies by major CMAQ project type. Adherence to methodologies will be the basis for evaluating the emission reduction estimates submitted for each project or program proposed for funding. Applicants can use their own methodology but must provide supporting documentation on its validity. Without adequate documentation, the validity of the emission values submitted may be seriously questioned during the scoring process. The example methodologies provided in the appendix are based in part on similar off –model methodologies available in other regions. A list of the resources containing these methodologies is listed in the reference section at the end of the examples.

Some projects may not lend themselves to quantitative analysis because of the projects structure or it is found to not adequately analyze the project. In those submittals, a qualitative assessment based on a reasoned logical examination of how the project or program will decrease emissions is acceptable. Documentation supporting the logic used is encouraged. The information provided is essential in determining the reasonableness of the emission reductions presented by the applicant. Do not enclose copies of studies, reports etc. cited, but a description of the source and copies of relevant page(s) is preferred.

For CMAQ eligible projects where a methodology is not provided, the applicant or their representative are encouraged to consult with the Metropolitan Council (see staff contact list) for guidance on an appropriate approach prior to preparing the application.

The appendix is organized into five sections:

1. Worksheet of Emissions Calculation Methodology By Major Types - Excel
2. Assumptions, Factors, and Default Values to be Used in Emmission Reduction Calculations - MS Word
3. Estimation of Average Speeds by Highway Links - MS Word
4. CO, NOx AND VOC Emission Tables for Auto and Bus by Speed - MS Word
5. Park-and- Ride Demand Estimation Methodology Emission

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• James Andrew at 651-602-1721 or james.andrew@metc.state.mn.us,
• Kevin Roggenbuck at 651-602-1728 or kevin.roggenbuck@metc.state.mn.us, or
• Carl Ohrn at 651-602-1719.