CHICAGO (AP) — A federal report says air quality testing found soot concentrations were higher on the platforms at Chicago’s Union Station than on the streets outside the commuter station.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released the report Thursday detailing the finding during the summer test of air quality. The Chicago Tribune reports the dirtiest air in the station was found to be at 5 p.m., when rush-hour trains are packed inside.
The EPA says it hopes to work with commuter rails to reduce particulate pollution. EPA regional administrator Susan Hedman declined to speculate on the agency’s actions if voluntary efforts fail.
Amtrak and Metra say they’re continuing to work on additional improvements. The agencies have installed more efficient air filters on passenger cars and switched to cleaner fuel.
