EPA proposes to redesignate Cleveland area to “attainment” for ozone; area now meets national air quality standards

EPA proposes to redesignate Cleveland area to "attainment" for ozone; area now meets national air quality standards

Cleaner air for Northeast Ohio as key pollutants drop more than 40% in about five years

April 8, 2026

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to redesignate the Cleveland area to "attainment" for ground-level ozone after three years of air monitoring show the region meets the national health-based standard. EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel joined Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno, U.S. Representative Dave Joyce, State Representative Bill Roemer and state and county officials to mark the milestone and invite public comment.

"Today's proposal reflects our commitment to clean air for every community while making it easier for responsible projects to move forward," said EPA Regional Administrator Anne Vogel. "Working with Ohio EPA, local leaders, and employers, we cut ozone emissions. That means healthier summers for families across Northeast Ohio and greater certainty for businesses investing and creating jobs."

"This is a big win for public health, our environment, and for Ohio's future," said Gov. Mike DeWine. "The progress to reduce ground-level ozone in this region sends a clear signal that Ohio is a place where businesses can grow and create jobs while also meeting important environmental standards."

"Ohio has done the work to improve air quality, and this redesignation is a recognition of that progress. It's a win for Northeast Ohio-making it easier for industry to build, produce energy and do business-while maintaining our commitment to clean air," said U.S. Sen. Jon Husted.

"The EPA's proposed approval to redesignate the Cleveland area to attainment for ozone is great news for Ohioans. It reflects the meaningful progress our communities have made to improve air quality. This milestone is a testament to the hard work of local leaders and residents, and it proves we can protect our environment while supporting economic growth. As a member of the Environment Subcommittee on the House Energy and Commerce Committee with jurisdiction over these issues, I look forward to seeing this designation finalized," said U.S. Rep. Bob Latta.

"Today's announcement is major news for Northeast Ohio. Cleaner air means healthier kids, stronger communities, and a better quality of life for everyone in the region," said U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce. "This is also an important first step in hopefully eliminating the harmful and burdensome E-Check program that has placed an unfair and disproportionate weight on the hardworking people of Northeast Ohio. By getting rid of red tape and regulation, we are no longer restricting individuals and businesses from growth and economic opportunity. I want to thank our EPA partners, local elected officials, and stakeholders across the region for helping make this possible."

"This is a momentous day in Northeast Ohio for hardworking families and individuals across the seven impacted counties," said State Rep. Bill Roemer. "Having worked diligently on this issue over the past eight years, I'd like to express my gratitude to the U.S. and Ohio EPA for their hard work recognizing air quality improvements in Northeast Ohio."

"This redesignation shows Ohio manufacturers are proving you can grow the economy and clean the air at the same time. Since 1988, industrial investments have helped drive nearly a 90% reduction in total air emissions statewide. Moving Cleveland to attainment gives manufacturers the certainty to keep investing and expanding," said Managing Director of Public Policy Services for the Ohio Manufacturers Association James Lee.

"This milestone reflects the strength of regional collaboration and the impact of sustained local, state, and federal efforts to improve air quality," said NOACA Executive Director and CEO Grace Gallucci. "It is a testament to the strong partnerships between local governments, state agencies, federal leaders, and the private sector, and a clear indication that our region's investments in transportation planning and air quality strategies are making a real difference for our communities."

In 2018, EPA designated the Cleveland area as "nonattainment" for the ozone standard because monitoring showed levels above the health-based limit. Since then, Ohio EPA, local governments, and industry worked together to cut the main pollutants that form ozone-nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As a result, NOx emissions in the area fell by about 42% and VOC emissions by about 25%, and recent monitoring shows the area meets the standard.

If EPA finalizes the redesignation after considering public comments, air permitting would be faster and more predictable while strong health protections remain in place. Importantly, existing pollution controls will continue, and regional transportation plans and major road projects will still be reviewed to ensure they do not worsen air quality. Federal law requires a maintenance plan to keep the area in attainment for at least 10 years.

The Cleveland area covered by this proposal includes Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit counties. EPA will publish the proposal in the Federal Registerand open a 30-day public comment period. The notice will include instructions on how to submit comments and the deadline for doing so. After reviewing public input, EPA will issue a final decision.

To learn more about ground-level ozone and the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, visit EPA's website.

For current air quality and ozone forecasts, visit the EPA AirNow app.