EPA is finalizing the amendment to the transportation conformity rule which allows EPA to create and implement a conformity pilot program. The conformity rule requires that transportation activities conform to state air quality implementation plans and establishes the criteria and procedures for determining whether or not they do. Conformity to an air quality plan means that transportation activities will not produce new air quality violations, worsen existing violations, or delay timely attainment of national ambient air quality standards. EPA and DOT will select up to six areas to participate in the pilot program. Each selected pilot area must submit its pilot procedures to EPA as a conformity SIP revision; if approved, these alternative procedures will be enforceable and replace the sections of the federal conformity rule that are addressed by each pilot program. Each pilot area will implement its pilot procedures for the three-year duration of the program. Today's action also describes the final application and selection process. The conformity pilot program allows state and local transportation and air quality agencies the additional flexibility to seek out and test the conformity procedures that work best in their area. Participating areas' experiences will be evaluated and it is possible that successful pilot programs may ultimately lead to further changes in the conformity rule. Along with recent amendments to the conformity rule, the pilot program is part of an EPA and DOT strategy to provide states and localities greater flexibility in meeting federal transportation conformity requirements while reinforcing Clean Air Act transportation and air quality commitments.