CLEVELAND — Northeast Ohio is now breathing a little easier. 

On Wednesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is proposing to redesignate the Cleveland area to “attainment” for ground-level ozone. 

The proposal follows at least three years of air monitoring data showing the region now meets national ozone standards.

“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,” said Anne Vogel, the EPA Regional Administrator. 

According to the EPA, in 2018, the agency designated the Cleveland area as “nonattainment” for the ozone standard because monitoring showed levels above the health-based limit. 

However, since then, state regulators, local governments and industry groups have worked to reduce emissions linked to ozone formation, including nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. Officials say those efforts have led to a significant drop in pollution, allowing the region to meet federal standards.

 “We didn’t get this attainment overnight, but the recognition of it today by the federal government is significant,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine. “This is exactly what we want to see, but we have to continue to do it. You know, I know people are concerned about E-Check, no one likes E-Check, everybody hates E-Check. Today’s announcement doesn’t get us over that hurdle, but I think it’s a step that shows that we’re making progress.”

The proposed redesignation covers seven counties: Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage and Summit.

If finalized, the officials say the change could make air permitting for new projects faster and more predictable, while maintaining existing pollution controls and health protections.

The EPA will publish the proposal in the Federal Register and open a 30-day public comment period before making a final decision.