Project Grant 99581212

The Cook County Department of Environment and Sustainability received a $241,000 Project Grant award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5, effective April 1, 2026, through March 31, 2028, under the Surveys, Studies, Research, Investigations, Demonstrations, and Special Purpose Activities Relating to the Clean Air Act program (CFDA 66.034). The award funds the maintenance and operation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) ambient air quality monitoring stations across Cook County, Illinois, in accordance with the State Network Plan. Key deliverables include conducting quality assurance assessments such as semi-annual flow rate audits and one-point flow rate verification of PM2.5 monitors, submitting quality-assured fine particulate matter data collected by regulatory monitors to ensure compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established under the Clean Air Act, and comprehensive grant administration and reporting.

The primary product is accurate, publicly available air quality data that enhances understanding of PM2.5 concentrations in Cook County's ambient air. The anticipated outcomes include increased knowledge of PM2.5 extent as a short-term benefit and, through execution of the State's implementation plan, reduced fine particulate matter concentrations and sustained NAAQS compliance as long-term objectives. The direct beneficiaries are Cook County residents, who are expected to experience decreased risk of adverse health effects through improved air quality monitoring and pollution control. No sub-awards are included in this assistance agreement.