Advertisement
YOU ARE HERE: KTUU HomeCollections

Anchorage Putting the Brakes on I/M Testing

January 11, 2012|By Rebecca Palsha | Channel 2 News

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Anchorage's I/M vehicle testing program could be over as early as Mar. 1, according to Mayor Dan Sullivan.

The Environmental Protection Agency approved the State of Alaska and Municipality of Anchorage’s plan to eliminate I/M testing in Anchorage, following a May 2010 vote by the Anchorage Assembly to repeal the program. That decision began a six-month phase-out period once it was decertified by the EPA.

Wednesday afternoon, Sullivan said he’ll ask the Assembly to rescind that action and terminate I/M testing as soon as possible.

“While the program was originally useful, it is no longer needed to assure that Anchorage has clean, breathable air,” Sullivan said.

Anchorage hasn’t violated the clean-air standards for carbon monoxide since 1997.

Brad Lamb, a manager with Car Care Center, said the I/M program works and not having violations is proof of that.

Advertisement

“You gotta be responsible for the air, for the environment,” Lamb said. “I’m not a big greenie, but this is one of the things that can help out a lot. Obviously it’s made a big difference.”

Sullivan said air quality will still be monitored and it possible the program it might be reinstituted, although it’s not likely since newer vehicles don’t put out the emissions that older vehicles do.

Email Rebecca Palsha

KTUU.com Articles
|
|
|