Quality of Life Indicators
air quality data
air quality
The Pollution Standard Index measures the region’s air quality that affects our health and outdoor lifestyle, important for tourism and attracting young professionals to the region. Federal Air Quality regulations have made a big difference in our region’s air quality. In the late 1980s, we had 13 and 14 days a year with unhealthful air quality; several times we exceeded federal pollution standards for carbon monoxide and particulate matter. We have had several “red” air quality days this year. This indicator is influenced by weather, vehicle miles traveled, congestion, public transportation, alternative transportation, and even how often the roads are sanded.
