CHICAGO (AP) — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says it will test diesel exhaust at Chicago’s Union Station after previous investigations found high levels of soot in the station and on board trains.
The Chicago Tribune reports the testing will happen over the next month. Investigators from the federal agency will walk along open-air station platforms wearing portable devices that measure the soot. The station hosts Amtrak and Metra commuter trains.
Diesel exhaust is a mix of toxic substances and particulate matter.
An Amtrak spokesman said the rail line “welcomes the EPA’s interest and expertise.” Metra has installed more efficient air filters on its cars and started using cleaner fuel. A Metra spokeswoman said the agency supports the EPA’s efforts.
