1990: Sep
1994: Jul Sep
1996: Jun Jul Sep Oct Nov Dec
1997: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
1998: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov
1999: Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2000: Jan Feb Mar Apr
Bensenville, Illinois Village Board Plans to Continue Soundproofing of Homes Nearest Chicago's O'Hare Airport Despite Shift in Noise Impact Areas Indicated by 1999 Computer Modeling. The Chicago Tribune reports that the Village Board of Bensenville, Illinois will continue to give soundproofing priority to homes located closest to Chicago's O'Hare Airport. The latest noise-maps from the Chicago Department of Aviation that show the 70-decibel impact area shifting northeast and away from Bensenville. Bensenville officials say the maps are ridiculous, saying that they are based on computer models when they had agreed with the airport to use actual noise monitor data. The Aviation Department funds soundproofing of homes in areas where noise impacts reach or exceed 70 decibels over a 24-hour period.
Moving Drag Strip to Grand Prairie, Texas Would Give Community Huge Economic Boost; Noise Not Seen as Problem. The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Texas Motorplex, a 43,000 seat drag racing facility currently located in Ennis, would give a huge economic boost to Grand Prairie if it moved there. The move was proposed by the facility owner, and a city-initiated study indicates that the economic benefits would be great. Grand Prairie already has an airport, a railroad track, a major highway, and two drag-racing strips; officials claim that the new "facility will be consistent with the existing noise environment."
Public in Utah's Salt Lake Valley Split on Sound Walls, Some Ask That Walls Demanded Two Years Ago Be Torn Down. The Salt Lake Tribune reports that 150 residents from Utah's Salt Lake Valley communities packed a Transportation Commission Meeting to voice varied opinions over Interstate 215 sound walls. Two years ago, residents demanded sound walls from the Commission in the same areas; some commissioners doubted their effectiveness along a hillside, but approved the $1 million project in response to pressure from state officials. While some still love the walls, the recent meeting was filled with even more people who want the walls demolished to regain the valley views they love more than quiet. Some comments regarding the Department of Transportation's decision making process prompted the commission to promise a look at the original decision to build the walls. The question is, was the public educated as to the impact the walls would have?
Residents Along Highways in Utah's Salt Lake Valley Have Varying Opinions About Noise Walls. The Associated Press State and Local Wire reports that Utah's Transportation Commission is caught between residents who like noise-walls and those who hate them. Some residents say the walls allow them to enjoy their yards again without shouting over highway noise. Others want the walls demolished, arguing that their views of the valley are more important. The Department of Transportation will be remeasuring noise levels in June to determine if the sound walls have effectively reduced noise.
Rock Concert Cut Off Due to Existing County Curfew on Amphitheater Sound. The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a rock concert by Lenny Kravitz was cut off in mid-song in Littleton, Colorado when a county curfew on sound was broken. Arapahoe county negotiated a 10:30 curfew on sound at the Fiddler's Green amphitheater, and the concert promoter pulled the plug promptly at 10:30 in order to comply. Kravitz started the show late due to equipment problems, and warned the audience that he may be cut off. Some attendees were upset, and called demanding their money back, despite the fact that the concert had run for some 4.5 hours.
Water Police in Massachusetts Communities Around Rockport Approach Regulation of Personal Watercraft in Several Ways. The Boston Globe reports that complaints regarding noise, environmental impact, and safety of personal watercraft in communities near Rockport, Massachusetts is prompting responses from waterway officials and harbormasters. Injuries are increasingly common, and most officials say the best approach is regulation, coupled with education. An informal survey revealed that officials would rather educate than ban.
New Nuisance Laws in Brisbane, Australia Carry Fines for Noise and Smells. The Australian General News reports that under new nuisance laws, complaints will first attract a warning. For second and third offenses $120 and $240 will be levied, respectively, though a spokesman said on-the-spot fines would likely be less than that. Nuisances covered under the laws would include noise and smells; currently, 47% of nuisance complaints relate to noise. Currently, it is difficult to enforce nuisance laws because it's difficult to get a prosecution.
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Waits on FAA to Approve and Fund New Runway While Negotiating to Acquire Necessary Land. The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is waiting for an FAA decision, due in March of 2000, on the fate of their proposed new 6,500 foot runway which would cost well over $300 million. A long-term plan for a new runway has been held up by a battle between the airport and the nearby Brook Park community over a key piece of real-estate; while airport officials still claim they will need that runway within 15 years, the currently proposed runway would help reduce congestion at the airport over the short-term. The currently proposed runway would be 1,200 feet from an existing runway, which would allow simultaneous use of two runways only in good weather; the runway needed in the long-term would be 4,500 feet from any other runway, allowing simultaneous use in any weather.
Communities Surrounding Boston, Massachusetts Weigh In on Logan Airport's Proposed New Runway. The Boston Globe reports that many of the communities affected by noise from Boston, Massachusetts' Logan Airport oppose proposed new 5,000-foot runway 14/32 , but their concerns differ slightly. Airport officials claim the new runway would reduce delays and spread noise more evenly over the area surrounding the airport; opponents believe the runway will add noise in the long run. Some opponents criticize the use of computer models instead of real noise monitors, but the airport claims that the FAA prefers computer models because there is no noise from other sources such as traffic or construction.
Town Council in Chapel Hill, North Carolina Gives Town Manager 30 Days to Consult With Experts on Noise Controls, Though He Wanted More Time. The Chapel Hill Herald reports that the Town Council in Chapel Hill, North Carolina has given the Town Manager 30 days to consult with an acoustics expert before suggesting changes to a proposed noise ordinance. A committee researching noise limits suggested tightening the limits by 5 decibels; the changes would mean noise must be under 45 decibels at night and 50 decibels during the day. The Town Manager said his department didn't have expertise to determine if this was appropriate "practically, legally, and financially", and asked for several months to consult with an acoustics consultant.
Organization in Australia Seeks Ban on Jet Skis in Sydney Harbor and Restrictions Elsewhere. The Dominion reports that Australia's Sydney Coastal Councils Group is calling on the state government to ban jet skis from Sydney Harbor while restricting their use elsewhere. Water police reported 120 incidents last year -- a 30 percent increase -- and the risk to riders and others such as bathers who use the harbor is rising. Some councils in Sydney have received up to 10 calls a day complaining of physical danger and excessive noise.
FAA Approves Air National Guard's Low-Level Training Flights Over Southern Colorado. The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that the FAA has approved the Air National Guard's plan to conduct low-altitude F-16 training flights over southern Colorado. Several organizations opposed the plan, and Bob Senderhauf, president of the Custer County Action Association, said "They really completely ignored a lot of the concerns...." Residents are worried that the noise will affect their lifestyle, livestock, wildlife and tourism. The Air Force said it has considered resident concerns, and halved the area that will be affected by low-altitude flight. The flights would be as low as 300-feet over some areas. At least one resident/businessman has planned to sue if the plan goes through.
Activist from National Campaign for Hearing Health Insists Airline Passengers Need Hearing Protection. USA Today reports that John Wheeler, president of the National Campaign for Hearing Health (NCHH) , insists that airline passengers need ear protection. He demonstrated on a twin-engine turboprop airplane that noise during banking maneuvers can reach 115 decibels; if this were a passenger's workplace, OSHA would insist on ear protection for periods of more than 15 minutes. Even during the quieter 110 decibel portion of the flight, OSHA would require ear protection for periods of more than 30 minutes.
Residents in California's Peninsula Communities Support Limits on Noise Levels and Operation Times for Leaf Blowers After One Peninsula Community Rejected an Outright Ban Last Year. The San Francisco Chronicle reports that residents in Palo Alto, California and other Peninsula communities support limiting noise levels from leaf blowers as well as hours of operation. A demonstration of four leaf blowers for the city council showed that noise from all of them exceeded the limits that the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) claimed they met. Currently, if police identify a blower emitting over 70 decibels -- the present noise limit -- they can fine the violator $104. The Palo Alto city council wants a public hearing to determine if there is support for an outright ban
United Latin American Pentecostal Church in Delta, Colorado Draws Noise Complaints and Misdemeanor Charges from Neighbors. The Denver Post reports that a United Latin American Pentecostal Church in Delta, Colorado is drawing complaints from neighbors about excessive noise. Amplified sermons, rock-band music, and shouting emanates from the dilapidated wood-frame church on Sunday mornings and evenings as well as Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Church officials are facing trial on two misdemeanor counts of causing unreasonable noise.
International Civil Aviation Organization to Negotiate "Difficult" Agreement with U.S. and EU on Reducing Airplane Noise. AFX News reports that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) will try to negotiate an agreement between the United States and the European Union on reduction of noise and pollution from aircraft. The European Union's recent decision to outlaw older airplanes with 'hush kits' by 2002, intended to encourage the use of even quieter planes, means that the U.S. will have difficulty reselling their hush-kitted airplanes and lose an estimated $1 billion in lost sales. Negotiation within ICAO may be difficult, because many members are from developing countries where noise isn't seen as a primary concern.
Fox Point, Wisconsin Considers Ordinance for Noisy, High Traffic Home Businesses. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that Fox Point, Wisconsin village officials are considering a noise ordinance that would deal with noise from home-based businesses. The issue was raised after several residents complained about a landscaping/snow removal business proprietor whose traffic and long-idling vehicles are disruptive.
Pill, U.K Residents Oppose New Freight Railway Line, Saying Highway Noise is Bad Enough Already. The Bristol Evening Post reports that residents in Pill, U.K. are upset at the proposed new railway branch to two existing railway lines. Residents have endured noise from the M5 Avonmout Bridge for years, and its proposed widening already promises to increase noise. The heavy freight that would use the new railway would be add to the noise, making it unbearable for many residents. The Bristol Port Company wants to build the line across a wildlife area, moving thousands of heavy shipping vehicles off the roads.
Airport, City Officials, and Citizen's Group Reach Compromise Over Airport Expansion In Lee's Summit, Missouri. The Kansas City Star reports that Airport officials, city officials, and the citizen's group Airport Expansion Evaluation Committee (AEEC) have reached a compromise over the expansion of an airport runway in Lee's Summit, Missouri. The proposed $20-$30 million project would extend the airport's major runway from 4,000 to 5,500 feet, but the city has agreed to hold off on the project until they learn whether Kansas City's Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport is closing. Expansion at Lee's Summit depends on the ability to relocate pilots from the Kansas City airport closing.
Arden, North Carolina Airboat. The Asheville Citizen-Times reports that Mike Bumgardner, an airboat operator on the French Board River in Arden, North Carolina, will appear at the County commissioners meeting with some of his past passengers to protest the efforts to shut his operation down. Noise complaints and concerns about the environment from riverfront residents have prompted the commission to consider regulation of airboats, which would primarily affect Bumgardner.
Proposed Ordinance in Plano, Texas Would Tighten Light and Noise Restrictions for Car-Related Businesses. The Dallas Morning News reports that Plano, Texas' Planning Commission is considering a noise ordinance proposal that would stictly limit the light and noise that a car-related business (such as a gas station) can allow to leave their property. 24-hour gas stations have been flooding residential communities with light and noise at night. The new ordinance would limit the light that can spill over to any area of a neighbors yard, limit sound to 60 dB in daytime and 55 dB at night, and would keep gas stations on the corners of city blocks. Fines for violations can be as high as $2000.
Proposed Ordinance to Ticket Owners of Barking Dogs Voted Down in Charleston County, South Carolina. The Post and Courier reports that a proposed ordinance in Charleston County, South Carolina that would have allowed police to charge dog owners whose pets bark continually was voted down 6-2. Persons convicted under the ordinance would have received a $500 fine. Although they were sympathetic to residents who have complained of incessantly barking dogs, several council members were concerned that the ordinance was unreasonable for rural residents who "expect to have animals around them" as part of their lifestyle; they maintained that an existing nuisance ordinance would allow problem-dog owners to be prosecuted.
Street Sweeper In Brisbane, Australia Adjusts Truck and Dramatically Lowers Noise Intensity. AAP Newsfeed reports that a street sweeper in Brisbane, Australia managed to cut the noise his truck makes from 86 to 73 dBs by making mechanical adjustments. His 2:30 AM rounds had been prompting complaints, but by speeding the brush speed while lowering the engine revolutions, noise was reduced dramatically. Normal ambient noise, including typical traffic, is about 55-60 dBs in the community.
Radio Personality Clem Plans to Attend Hernando County, Florida Commissioners Meeting to Protest "Persecution" of His Nightclub. The St. Petersburg Times reports that "Bubba the Love Sponge Clem", a radio DJ in Hernando County, plans to attend the County commissioner's meeting to protest what he describes as a 'witch hunt' against him. Clem's recently-opened nightclub in Spring Hill has been drawing noise complaints from neighbors, but Clem claims the volume is under allowable limits. The County claims that noise meters do not pick up bass, which creates the disruptive thumping; the County has ordered a new $3000 noise meter that is capable of picking up lower frequency sounds. The noise ordinance would have to be changed in order to use the new meter for enforcement.
Many Residents in Boca Raton, Florida Want Smaller Highway Noise Wall Atop Berm Instead of Larger, Less Attractive Wall. The Palm Beach Post reports that about 150 residents in Boca Raton, Florida gathered for a rally against a proposed 16-foot to 18-foot noise wall between their homes and U.S. Route 441. Instead, they want an 8-foot wall atop an existing 8-foot berm, which they say would be equally effective and more attractive that the proposed "prison setting." The Department of Transportation says it doesn't have money to buy extra land for berms, and that it's too far along in the process to change plans. Three federal legislators vowed to help residents, saying that a delay is worth it if a more acceptable compromise can be reached.
Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison, Michigan Released a 10-year Study of Flight Patterns and Related Noise. The Detroit News reports that the Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison, Michigan is releasing a study of changing flight patterns to assess noise impacts of military flights on surrounding communities. The study was conducted from 1987-97, and can help the community designate less noisy areas as residential in future zoning decisions. Twin engine fighters have been replaced with quieter single engine ones, night flights have been reduced, and engines are now tested in soundproofed 'hush houses.'
West Boca, Florida Residents Oppose 16-foot Noise Wall on U.S. 441, Asking For Shorter Wall Atop Existing Berm. The Sun-Sentinel reports that over 200 residents gathered in Boca Chase to protest a proposed I-95 style noise walls in front of their homes that they say would give the community a 'prison-like' feel and decrease their property values. The Department of Transportation wants to build 16-foot noise walls in front of 8 communities in Boca Raton, Florida; Boca Chase residents want an 8-foot wall atop an existing berm, which has been shown already in Hillsborough county and confirmed by the state noise program administrator. The sound barriers, whatever their final form, will be required after the proposed widening of U.S. 441 from two lanes to six increases noise to more than 67 decibels, the point at which federal regulations require a noise wall.
Police in Naperville, Illinois Ask City Council for Noise Ordinance Amendment Allowing Impounding of Cars When Stereos Are Too Loud. The Chicago Tribune reports that Naperville, Illinois police have asked city council to amend the noise ordinance to allow the impounding of cars when their stereos are too loud. The request comes in response to noise problems in a local parking lots in front of Walgreen's on the scenic Riverwalk. Teenagers often crank their stereos in the parking lot, fight, and "quite frankly make a point to intimidate other people." It would cost $250 to release an impounded car.
Court Rules Burbank, California Can Block Expansion at Burbank Airport, Contrary to Airport's Claims. The Los Angeles Times reports that a California appellate court ruling gives Burbank, California the right to block any future expansion at Burbank Airport. The Airport Authority had claimed that Burbank had given up such power when it formed the authority jointly with the communities of Glendale and Pasadena in 1977, but the court ruled that a city "may not delegate discretionary powers in such a way that results in a total abdication of those powers." The decision should encourage the airport compromise, since a more moderate expansion plan would reduce resistance from the city.
Orchard Park, New York Residents Upset at 4 AM Grocery Unloading Times Approach Town Board, Board Says Loading Times Can't Be Limited Under Current Noise Ordinance. The Buffalo News reports that residents in Orchard Park, New York are upset with noisy delivery trucks unloading behind a neighboring grocery store at 4 AM. The Town Board says they have no legal recourse currently, but the Town Supervisor said he personally knows the store owner and will talk with him about changing delivery times.
California Appelate Court Ruled Burbank, California Can Reject Burbank Airport's Expansion Plans, Making Compromise More Likely. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that a California appelate court decided Burbank, California can reject airport expansion plans. Burbank Airport had claimed that the city had given up such power when it formed a joint airport governing board with neighboring Glendale and Pasadena. The city, which is now in a much stronger bargaining position, hopes to force the airport to scale down its expansion plan.
Massachusetts' Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) Office Approves Massashusetts Port Authority (Massport) Environmental Review, Insiders Say MEPA Will Ask Massport to Iron Out Details. The Boston Globe reports that the Massachusetts' Port Authority (MassPort) has won preliminary approval of its environmental review of a new Logan Airport runway from the state's Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) office. Insiders say MEPA is asking Massport to revise pieces of the draft before it formally approves it, including specific plans to encourage use of other nearby airports and a 'peak pricing' fare plan that would charge more to airlines during prime flight times. Both revisions are aimed at reducing traffic and peak demand at Logan. MEPA also considered over 1,000 public comments, making the runway the second-most commented on review ever.
Saucon, Pennsylvania Town Planning Commission Will Fix Time Conflict Between Two Noise-Related Ordinances. The Morning Call reports that a 1987 construction ordinance and a newly proposed noise ordinance amendment conflict regarding the earliest time that noise is allowed in Saucon, Pennsylvania. The Town Planning Commission will reconcile the two ordinances before the noise ordinance is officially passed. The construction ordinance says noise can begin at 6 AM, while the noise ordinance says 7 AM.
Neighbors of New Hospital in Austin, Texas Bothered By Moderate-Decibel but High-Pitched Air Conditioners. The Austin American-Statesman reports that air conditioners at Austin, Texas' new Heart Hospital emit a high-pitched noise that is annoying neighbors. The city's noise ordinance was designed to deal with late-night amplified noise of an excessive volume, and doesn't apply to the unamplified air conditioners of moderate volume. Residents of historical neighborhoods like Hyde Park think the traditionally placid feel is destroyed by the air-conditioners.
Residents in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota Oppose Minnesota Orchestra's Proposed Outdoor Amphitheater, Petition City Council to Ban Outdoor Amphitheaters in Residential Zones Entirely. The Star Tribune reports that nearly 400 people attended a recent Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) meeting on whether to grant a noise variance to the Minnesota Orchestra's proposed outdoor amphitheater in Brooklyn Park. Most were against the project, saying the amphitheater will increase traffic, crime, and noise. 14 homes and a church would need to agree to any noise variance, but at least two are refusing to negotiate.
Gilbert, Arizona Officials and Williams Airport Pleased with State Legislation Requiring Disclosure of Airport Noise Levels to Prospective Home Buyers. The Arizona Republic reports that officials at the city of Gilbert and Williams Airport in Mesa, Arizona are pleased with new state legislation requiring developers to disclose the airport's existence and noise patterns. The legislation requires disclosure when the average noise exceeds 60 decibels. The bill gained support from more than 200 homeowners with lawsuits against developers who misled them about Mesa's Williams Gateway Airport, saying it saw little flight activity.
Inkom, Idaho Residents Complain About a Low-End Noise From a Cement Plant Five Miles Downhill. The Idaho Statesman reports that residents in Inkom, Idaho are complaining about a low-frequency, intermittent sound that seems to be coming from a cement plant five miles away down the hillside. The plant's environmental officer says that the problem may be a kiln shell fan installed two years ago, and has placed a monitoring device at a home on the hillside; they plan to isolate different sounds captured by the device to determine that the sound is coming from them. The plant will consider hiring an acoustical expert if the sound is determined to be from the plant. The sound is heard most often on calm evenings after the nearby Interstate has quieted down.
Audience Complaints of Loud Trailers Lead Hollywood to Set Standard Volume Limits. The Los Angeles Times reports that audience complaints over loud trailers have led Hollywood to set volume limits. Since trailers are traditionally recorded louder than the feature to grab attention, turning trailers down in a movie theater can make the film too soft. After a test by Hollywood engineers last summer showed that some trailers can average more sound intensity that the New York Subway (92 decibels), the Trailer Audio Standards Association started thinking about new volume limits; this spring the new controls were unveiled which would turn down the loudest trailers by one-third.
Neighbors Trying to Close a Fayetteville, Arkansas Feed Plant Learn Noise Ordinance Applies to Them, Begin Making Noise Complaints. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that neighbors of a Fayetteville, Arkansas Feed Plant, who are already suing the plant because it is a nuisance, have discovered a new weapon in its fight: the noise ordinance. The ordinance has traditionally been associated with downtown's entertainment district, but it applies around the plant as well. Local police have ticketed the plant five times in eleven days for exceeding noise limits. A spokesman for the neighbors said that the residents are 'economically disadvantaged', and were not as likely to know the ordinance applied to them as those in wealthy neighborhoods.
Albuquerque, New Mexico Plans to Add Noise Control Officer Position, Revise Noise Law. The Albuquerque Journal reports that Albuquerque, New Mexico has requested $66,000 to buy noise monitoring equipment and create a new noise control position to help address the issue of urban noise. Though no noise control position existed, 6,000 hours of staff time were used dealing with noise complaints and related permits last year: the same as three full-time positions. The new position will focus on working with developers to curb noise before it becomes a problem, as well as responding to complaints, issuing permits, and educating the public.
Boston Man Claims in Thirty Years of Living in "Problem Neighborhoods", Aircraft Noise Has Never Bothered Him. The Patriot Ledger prints an opinion piece, claiming that jet noise from Logan airport has never been a big deal. The author has a thirty year history in the area, living in Quincy and Squantum, and frequently relaxing with friends outside in Houghs Neck, Germantown, Wollaston and Montclair. He has never had problems reading, conversing, or balancing a glass of beer through it all. While he acknowledges that air traffic could increase with a proposed new runway at Logan, he says it could be positioned to take most air traffic out over water, diminishing impact on residential areas.
Durham, North Carolina City Council May Amend Noise and Trespassing Ordinances to Discourage Raucous Gatherings in Club Parking Lot. The Herald-Sun reports that the Durham, North Carolina City Council is considering a noise and trespassing ordinance in city-owned parking facilities to discourage loud and raucous assemblies. After two people were killed in a December shooting and another man seriously injured in an April fight, the city is trying to eliminate crowds in their parking areas that can be conducive to violence. The amendment would require people to leave the parking lot after parking or returning to their car. The city would impose a new $2 nightly parking fee to pay for enforcement.
Canterbury, New Hampshire Residents Upset by Noisy Racetrack in Nearby Loudon New Hampshire. The Associated Press reports that Canterbury, New Hampshire residents are hearing too much noise from Loudon, New Hampshire's 82,000-seat race car track across the highway. Canterbury, known for their living museum "Shaker Village" which celebrates simplicity and spirituality, is closer to the racetrack than most of Loudon and yet has no official voice with which to protest the noise.
Pilot Critical of Florida Airport Criticism. The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News in Stuart Florida printed the following letters to the editor concerning airport noise:
Pink Floyd Music Show at Fayetteville, Arkansas Fairgrounds Gets Noise Citation From Police. The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that a live band and fireworks at a Pink Floyd Laser Light Show on Fayetteville, Arkansas Fairgrounds was too loud. After residents up to five miles away complained, police visited the fairgrounds and ticketed the man running the show. Police said the noise was above acceptable limits, but they still couldn't legally shut down the concert.
Noise Monitors at Chicago's O'Hare Airport Say Noise is Decreasing, but Some Say Data May Be Misleading. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that 8 of 37 noise monitors at Chicago O'Hare's Airport show that aircraft noise is decreasing. Compared to last year, the first three months of this year were quieter by one or two decibels -- the smallest discernible amount measurable -- and noise complaints were down too. Some of the change may have to do with quieter aircraft being used.
FAA Studies Impact that Jet Noise from a Proposed Federal Express Hub Would Have in Greensboro, North Carolina. High Point Enterprise reports that the FAA is performing a year-long environmental impact study -- which will include data on where noise impacts will be worst -- for a proposed FedEx hub at Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTIA) in Greensboro, North Carolina. FedEx and PTIA claim noise mitigation measures, such as soundproofing airplane engines, will be taken to minimize morning and evening noise disruption. The hub would serve 20-25 planes a day on a third, parallel runway.
Canada's CN Rail Begins Appeal of Order to Abate Noise at Oakville Rail Yard. The Toronto Star reports that Canada's CN Rail, which moved some noisy operations to its Oakville railyard in 1998, is appealing a Canadian Transport Agency order to reduce noise in Oakville. A citizen's committee supported the March ruling, which requires CN to monitor noise at the yard twice each month and submit a long-term noise reduction plan. The Federal Court of Appeals will now determine if the appeal has legal grounds, and in the meantime CN will perform noise measurements in compliance with the order.
Durham, North Carolina Noise/Trespassing Ordinances Revised to Keep Nightclub "Let-out" Quieter. The News and Observer reports that changes to Durham, North Carolina's noise and trespasssing ordinances, aimed at quieting nightclub 'let-out', will go to the City Council for approval. The "Power Company" nightclub has been the setting for a shooting and a major fist-fight in the last year, and city officials made the ordinance changes to give police more authority in keeping closing time quiet and orderly. The changes require patrons -- who can number in the thousands outside the club at closing -- to move to their car 'without delay', and define noise violations more loosely as "unreasonably loud and disturbing." In addition to the problems with violence, neighbors had been complaining about noise from music and unruly patrons.
European Union Extends Deadline for Registering Hushkitted Aircraft; Hushkitted Aircraft Will Be Banned from European Union Airspace If Not Registered by April 1, 2000. World Airport Week reports that the European Union has extended its deadline for registration of hushkitted aircraft. The deadline, pushed from April 1999 to April 2000, must be met by hushkitted aircraft if they wish to fly in European Union airspace after April 2002. The ruling is intended to require the use of newer, quieter jets, but compromises with the U.S. who argued their hushkit manufacturers were being discriminated against.
New International Airport in Austin, Texas Proposed Buyout Option For Neighbors Concerned with Noise. The Austin American-Statesman reports that officials for a new International Airport in Austin, Texas have proposed a buyout to neighboring homeowners. City Council still has to approve the proposal, which would give homeowners the option of selling to the airport. The airport would then try to sell the homes to others, telling them about the noise concerns and requiring the signing of a waiver for noise issues.
Shock Jock Defends His Loud but Legal Nightclub at County Commission in Hernando County, Florida. The St. Petersburg Times reports that Clem, a radio shock-jock in Hernando County, Florida visited the County Commission to defend his nightclub against noise complaints. The nightclub is within the local noise ordinance limits, but neighbors are still complaining. Clem has pledged to install noise-blocking panels, and pays off-duty sheriffs deputies to patrol the parking lot on weekends, and insists that he is doing nothing wrong.
Stamford, Connecticut Noise Ordinance Enforcement Transferred to Police. The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that Stamford, Connecticut's noise ordinance will now be enforced by police instead of city health inspectors. The change comes in response to continuing, frequent complaints about car stereos, construction, car alarms, and garbage trucks among other noise sources. Fines can be up to $99 per day, and noise limits depend on the type of zone (residential, commercial, industrial) the noise is in.
Stamford, Connecticut Noise Ordinance Enforcement Transferred to Police. The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that Stamford, Connecticut's noise ordinance will now be enforced by police instead of city health inspectors. The change comes in response to continuing, frequent complaints about car stereos, construction, car alarms, and garbage trucks among other noise sources. Fines can be up to $99 per day, and noise limits depend on the type of zone (residential, commercial, industrial) the noise is in.
MP in U.K.s Parliament Sponsored a Motion to Require Local Governments to Examine and Control Airport Noise. The Leicester Mail reports that a county MP from the U.K.s Leicester community is co-sponsoring a parliamentary motion to require local governments to take noise considerations seriously at their regional airports. Other parliamentary members said the legislation would make local governments more responsible and take some pressure off of airports and developers who have traditionally had to fend for themselves regarding noise issues.
La Mesa, New Mexico Man to Appeal a Permit Denial for his Noisy Aviary. The Albuquerque Journal reports that the owner of La Mesa, New Mexico Albuquerque Aviary will appeal the planning board's decision not to issue him a needed permit. Neighbors complained that his open-roofed aviary, housing at least 600 exotic birds, creates too much noise. He was then told to apply for a permit, which was denied.
Chicago O'Hare Joins Airport Council International in Encouraging the FAA to Phase Out Older Planes, Allowing Much Quieter New Planes to Take Over. The Chicago Tribune reports that many U.S. airports and residents are concerned that while quieter planes are available, airlines are continuing to put hush-kits and performance-modification kits on noisier planes. While these kits quiet planes enough to meet year 2000 standards, the newer, quieter planes are up to 3 times as quiet. Some airports, including Chicago O'Hare, are joining Airport Council International in asking the FAA to phase out the older modified planes.
Younger Generations are Facing More Noise, Making Ear Protection More Critical. The Asheville Citizen-Times reports on the increase of hearing problems in relatively young people. Louder traffic, appliances, and music put younger people at risk, and have created two generations of kids who will lose more hearing than their parents did. Noise-induced hearing loss affects 20 million Americans, and nearly every other U.S. adult believes he or she has lost some hearing, while one in three 18 to 29-year-olds believes the same. There has been a fourteen percent increase in hearing loss ince 1971, and kids as always think they're immune to health problems like hearing loss.
June 4-5 Jet Noise Test at El Toro Marine Base in Orange County, California Set; Supporters Say It Will Give Residents a Taste of an Airport, Opponents Say It Will Mislead. The Orange County Register reports that a test of commercial jet noise at El Toro Marine Base in Orange County, California has been scheduled for June 4-5. The test is intended to give residents in southern Orange County an idea of the noise they would face if the closing marine base becomes a commercial airport. The test will include seven types of jets taking off from two runways between 7 AM and midnight. Opponents say that since frequency, times of day, and length of the demonstration will all be less than an actual commercial airport, it will be misleading.
Oxnard, California's Airport Authority Rejects Master Plan, Saying Potential Noise Concerns From Increasing Air Traffic Must Be Addressed. The Ventura County Star reports the Oxnard, California Airport Authority voted to revise their twenty year master plan before sending it to the County Board. Residents said the environmental impact report did not adequately address potential noise problems that could result from increased air traffic. Traffic could increase from about 100,000 aircraft landings to 150,000 in the next 10 years.
FAA Rules That Burbank, California's Airport Can't Forbid Night Flights. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that the FAA has told Burbank, California's Airport that it can not impose a mandatory curfew on night flights, despite the fact that local noise restrictions were imposed in 1977. Burbank believed that these local restrictions, in place before the 1990 Airport Noise and Capacity Act that bars airports from making new noise rules, would allow them to impose a curfew.
FAA Tells Burbank, California Airport a Study Must Preclude Any Night-Flight Curfew. The Los Angeles Times reports that the FAA told California's Burbank airport that a noise study must preclude a night flight ban. The city of Burbank had sought a ban on flights between 10 PM and 7 AM, as well as a limit of the numbers of flights. City officials acknowledged the setback, but says it was committed to pursuing a curfew, either through a study or through a voluntary agreement with the airlines involved. A voluntary curfew already exists, though it is not always followed.
Editorial Writer in Los Angeles Asks Those Affected By Airport Noise to Accept It For the Good of the Community. The Los Angeles Times editorial staff printed an article asking citizens of Orange County, California to accept the "sporadic and short duration" airport noise as many people accept freeway noise. The author tried to appeal to the reader's desire to "travel the world and share with our fellow men and women our cultures."
Bird Sanctuary Owner in La Mesa, New Mexico Told to Enclose His Unroofed Bird Sanctuary After Neighbors' Noise Complaints. The Albuquerque Journal reports that the owner of Albuquerque Aviaries, a bird sanctuary for 600-800 exotic birds, has been told by the city planning department that he must enclose his open-roofed business to reduce the noise. After neighbors complained last year, he was told he needed a conditional use permit, which was denied to him unless he constructs a roof which would cost up to $15,000. He plans to take his case to City Council.
Police Post Signs Barring Noise at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Street Musicians Are Upset and Think It's Just the Beginning. The Times-Picayune reports that police in New Orleans' French Quarter posted signs in front of St. Louis Cathedral suggesting musicians were not welcome. Musicians are upset, and some signs have disappeared. An attorney who has represented street performers in the past say the signs, intended to bar noise above 78 decibels 50 feet from its source during services, seem to suggest that no noise is acceptable at any time. Parishioners planned to sue for their right to worship without disruptive sound, but they are holding off since the city has posted the signs and promised to enforce the noise limits. The noise limits in the quarter are already above the 70 decibels in other residential areas of New Orleans.
Residents of Powell, Wyoming Still Finding Stock Car Races Too Loud After New Noise Ordinance Established. The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that in Powell, Wyoming where a new noise ordinance has just been established, residents still find the County Fairground stock car races too loud. The new ordinance sets a limit of 80 decibels at 100 feet, and readings taken on May 8 showed an acceptable average; however, residents claim that particularly loud times still exceed the limits. A resident suggested planting a row of trees to buffer the race noise, and the Park Board is looking into the possibility.
Orlando, Florida Airport Advisory Group Approves Rule to Notify Prospective Home Buyers of Aircraft Noise If It Has Been Recently Rezoned Residential. The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that an Orlando, Florida airport advisory board approved a rule that would notify prospective home buyers of aircraft noise if the land was previously not zoned residential. Orlando's two airports are voluntarily adopting the rule to avoid expensive noise abatement measures in the future that have cost airports like Atlanta $400 million. Some buyers will be asked to sign waivers saying they won't sue over noise, while
Albany, New York is Home to Blasting Car Stereos, Unmufflered Motorcycles, and Honking Taxis. The Times Union printed a letter to the editor as follows:
New Proposal in Gilbert, Arizona Requiring Disclosure of Williams Airport Flight Patterns to Home Buyers is Opposed by Many Who Weren't Told Themselves. The Arizona Republic reports that a new proposition in Gilbert, Arizona's Town Council that requires home buyers to be notified of airport noise is being opposed by Williams airport and by present homeowners. The director of the airport claims that a new airport-disclosure law -- which takes effect in August -- will make the proposition redundant, but council members say there is a big gap in the RESALE of homes. Although buyers of new homes will find out about airport noise if it is over a 60 dB average per day, those selling their own homes need not disclose that information, and they are saying they shouldn't have to.
Owner of Bar on Fox Lake in Illinois Under Fire from Lakeshore Residents Claiming His Music, Piers Are Disruptive and Lower Their Property Value. The Chicago Tribune reports that the Electric Harbor Marina, on Fox Lake in Illinois, is disrupting neighbors on the shores of Columbia Bay. Residents say the bar and summer afternoon concerts that Electric Harbor started last year are too loud, and complain that the 66 boat slips there detract from their views and property value; Bob Glueckert is trying to sell his house, and can't because Electric Harbor has effectively taken more than $250,000 off of its value. The owner, Larry Phillips, says he has no intention of changing.
Residents in Plainview, New York Who Wanted a Noise Wall for the Highway in 1992 Now Oppose It As Too Close to Their Homes. Newsday reports that residents in Plainview, New York who asked their representative for a noise wall in 1992 when he was elected now say that the proposed 18-24 foot wall would block their view. Because of the sloped terrain between the highway and the homes, utility and emergency access issues, and economic feasibility, the wall would have to be closer to the property lines than to the road to be effective. In 1997 about 100 residents signed a petition saying that the noise wall would be too close, and this year about 40 signed a petition saying they no longer wanted it at all.
French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana is Site of Disagreement for Street Musicians and Parishioners Desiring Quiet. The Times-Picayune reports that a Cathedral in New Orleans' French Quarter has become a place of conflict between street musicians and parishioners. Parishioners claim their right to worship is being compromised by street musician's noise, and had threatened to sue the city; in response, no-noise signs have been erected and a pledge has been made by local police to enforce noise limits there.
Tavares, Florida City Council to Discuss Proposed Noise Ordinance. Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that Tavares, Florida's city council will discuss a proposed noise ordinance that would target those who create nuisance noise. The proposition comes after a petition of 154 names was submitted last month by neighbors of a new, loud restaurant. Council members maintain that the ordinance is not targeted at the restaurant, rather it fills in a previous gap in the city's laws.
America West, Supported by Arizona Senator, Wants DC's National Airport to Loosen Rule and Allow Non-Stop Arrivals from Phoenix. Arizona Republic reports that America West Airlines, with support from Arizona Senator John McCain, supports pending legislation that would allow non-stop flights from Phoenix into the District of Columbia's National Airport. Currently, a 1966 'perimeter rule' designed to ease congestion and help nearby Dulles and BWI airports compete, disallows flights of over 1,250 miles to fly into National. Critics say the Air Transportation Improvement Act would not lower fares, and would just create more noise.
Boston's Logan Airport and Others Should Compenstate Neighbors. The Boston Globe printed an Opinion piece by an MIT management and economics professor Lester Thurow suggesting that political difficulties with expanding airports, or better yet developing high-speed rail, be solved the way they are in France: financial compensation. In France, residents receive monthly checks depending on how close they live to power plants to compensate them for the risks. Thurow suggests that we pay premiums for houses that have to be torn down, compensate for train noise, and get a real high-speed rail system underway.
Humboldt County, California Motocross Track Shut Down After Environmentalists Complain of Noise in Nearby Ancient Redwood Grove. Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a popular motocross track in California's Humboldt County will be shut down after a successful suit by the Save the Redwoods League contended that the resulting noise was incompatible with enjoyment of a nearby ancient Redwood grove.
Humboldt County, California Motocross Track Shut Down After Environmentalists Complain of Noise in Nearby Ancient Redwood Grove. Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a popular motocross track in California's Humboldt County will be shut down after a successful suit by the Save the Redwoods League contended that the resulting noise was incompatible with enjoyment of a nearby ancient Redwood grove.
Noise Laws in Durham, North Carolina Made Stricter in Response to Repeated Violence at Downtown Dance Club. The News and Observer reports that Durham, North Carolina has strengthened their noise and loitering laws in response to several incidents of violence this year at a downtown dance club. A fatal shooting outside the club in December, and serious injury resulting from a fist-fight in April convinced lawmakers the regulation was necessary. Wording of the laws are now more encompassing, meaning that patrons of "The Power Company" and other revelers can not "create noise that is "unreasonably loud" and "disturbing" or make sounds that exceed certain decibel levels at certain times."
Truckee, California's Town Council Considers Restrictions for Personal Watercraft on Donner Lake, Fearing Recent Restrictions at Lake Tahoe will Bring More Polluting Watercraft There. The Sacramento Bee reports that Truckee, California's Town Council is considering restrictions on the use of personal watercraft in Lake Donner. Nearby Lake Tahoe recently banned personal watercraft, and residents are afraid make people will come to Lake Donner instead. Personal watercraft release up to 1/4 of their fuel -- including MTBE, benzene, and other chemicals -- unburned into the water, which in turn is used as drinking water by lake-level residents and also imported into Nevada for drinking.
Businesses in United States Say Airport Delays Curbs Growth; Residents Say Growth Hurts Quality of Life. Financial Times reports that longer and more numerous flight delays at crowded U.S. airports are limiting business' rate of growth, and many businesses are supporting airport expansion. Passenger flights have increased 42 percent over the last seven years, and the next ten years could see even faster increases in demand. Residents continue to be upset by airport growth, citing the resulting noise as an enemy of quality of life, and claiming that business executives who don't live near airports have no right to dictate what noise is tolerable.
Consultant to Check Accuracy of Chicago O'Hare Airport Noise Monitors. Chicago Sun-Times reports that a noise consultant hired by Chicago, O'Hare's Noise Compatibility Commission will analyze the airport's 28 noise monitors for accuracy. The monitors record aircraft noise in neighborhoods and send data to the airport, so noise can be correlated with particular runways and airlines. The commission, which includes several school districts in the area, wants to use the data to help fight noise.
County Supervisors Approve Jet-Noise Tests at California's El Toro Base Despite Protests Against Its Safety and Accuracy In Conveying Impact of a Constant Operation. Los Angeles Times reports that a $1.3 million commercial jet-noise demonstration at El Toro Marine Base in Orange County, California was approved by County supervisors 3-2. The test is intended to give residents an idea of the noise they would experience if the proposed commercial terminal is built on the base, and ten temporary monitoring stations will be set up to objectively gauge the noise. Critics claim that the take-off directions to be used are dangerous and that the test will not accurately convey the impact of a 24-hour commercial airport operation.
Deputies in Chain O' Lakes Area of Illinois Will Test Powerboats for Compliance with New Noise Ordinance. Chicago Tribune reports that marine police will be on hand to help powerboaters determine if their boats are within the new noise limits set by Fox Waterway Agency on the Chain O' Lakes near Chicago. The limit is 90 decibels, but passing under the limit does not mean a boater can not receive a ticket this season; it is meant to give boaters an idea of whether they need to take steps to quiet their engines.
Fincastle, Virgina Manufacturing Plant Disturbs Resident Who Calls for Noise Ordinance Amendment. Roanoke Times & World News reports that Keith Martin of Fincastle, Virginia is constantly disturbed by noise from Tower Automotive's manufacturing plant. The plant operates 24 hours a day, creating noise which crosses agricultural zones to Martin's residence. Martin presented his case to the County Board of Supervisors, calling for revocation of a noise ordinance exemption for manufacturers. The Board assigned an administrator to meet with plant officials to try and resolve the issue, but made not commitment to alter the noise ordinance.
Lawsuit Filed by Anti-noise Group in Norfolk, Virginia to Stop Navy Relocation of Jets Dismissed; Group Plans to Appeal. The Virginian-Pilot reports that a lawsuit, filed by Norfolk, Virginia's group Citizens Concerned About Jet Noise, that challenged the navy's relocation of jets to Virginia Beach's Oceana naval base was dismissed. The suit alleged that Virginia Beach was chosen as the relocation site arbitrarily, and that the navy's environmental impact statement was not sufficient. The group wanted a supplemental study of how the louder jets would affect communities in the area. The group plans to appeal the decision.
Noise From YMCA's Skateboard Park in North Attleboro, Rhode Island Bothers Neighbors. Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that neighbors of North Attleboro, Rhode Island's YMCA are upset with noise from a new skateboard park ramp there. Not only is the ramp noisy, but it was also built without proper permits. Coupled with the repeated dumping of drained chlorinated pool water on property wetlands, noise issues have had YMCA representatives meeting with the Conservation Commission for nearly a year. The Y has agreed to make changes, such as holding environmental workshops on their wetlands and dechlorinating and testing their pool water before dumping it. The facility has already voluntarily insulated the skateboard ramp to reduce noise.
Tavares, Florida City Council Considering Noise Ordinance After Resident Complaints About Nearby Restaurant. Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that Tavares, Florida's City Council is considering a noise ordinance that would fine violators -- which could include those making "any excessive sound that disturbs the peace, including music, barking dogs and construction" -- up to $500. If noise continues, violators could be required to appear before the city Code Enforcement Board. The ordinance stems from resident complaints about a 7-month-old neighborhood restaurant that plays loud music. While many council members support a noise law, some think it is too subjective. At least one member does not believe the city should be subjected to an ordinance because of problems in a particular area.
Proposed "Entertainment Zones" in Seattle Would Relax Strict Noise Rules; Some See a Balance Between Residents and Vibrant Nightlife, Others See Residential Density Being Discouraged. Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports that Seattle's loudest late-night businesses may find refuge from the city's tough new noise ordinances -- including $250 fines -- in a new idea: Entertainment Zones. City council is considering designating designating these zones to allow a loud, vibrant nightlife to flourish in some areas while protecting residential tranquility in others. Many businesses love the idea, but at least one citizen group believes the zones would be unfair to current residents and contribute to urban sprawl. The columnists address the issue in a humorous way, following a luckless drunken man through his night.
Several Mayors in the Peninsula Region Near San Francisco, California's International Airport Push to Have Noise Issues Considered in Terminal Expansion Plan. San Francisco Chronicle reports that eight mayors from the Mid-Peninsula region near San Francicso International Airport asked airport management to take noise-control measures as part of the current $2.4 billion terminal expansion. Measures would include maximum noise levels for new flights over Peninsula cities, reduction in noise of current flights, penalties for non-compliance, and public hearings to help determine the placement of new runways. The mayors made their request public at a news conference, after sending their request to the airport in writing three months ago.
Farmington, Utah's City Council Stance Against Unattractive Noise Walls on I-15 Less Certain After Residents Push for the Structures. The Desert News reports that Farmington, Utah's city council is now wavering in their stance against noise walls on Interstate 15 that they say would be aesthetically unattractive. 175 residents signed a petition saying the freeway noise is 'overwhelming' and that they want noise walls -- attractive or not -- swaying two council members to their side, while the rest of the council voted to postpone a decision until after further study and public input. The council had been opposed to the walls, which would require amendment of the city's master plan, at a public hearing two weeks ago.
Government Officials in West Allis, Wisconsin are Ready to Demand Less Tire-Testing Noise from State Fair Auto-Racing Oval in Response to Increasing Resident Complaints. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that the mayor, along with several House Representatives in West Allis, Wisconsin, are ready to demand that the State Fair "Milwaukee Mile" auto-racing oval limit the noise they produce. Noise has been more prevalent due to more frequent in pre-race tire testing and increasing use by an auto-racing school. Residents are very upset and complaining more frequently, but track officials continue to make improvements to the track to draw even more races there.
Noise: Nuisance Or Health Hazard?. The New York Times printed the following letter to the Editor arguing that noise is a pollutant and not just a nuisance.
Proposed Directive in Brussels, Belgium to Set Maximum Noise Levels for Lawn and Garden Appliances; Manufacturer Compliance May be Difficult. Times Newspapers Limited reports that a proposed directive in Brussels, Belgium will set limits on how much noise outdoor appliances can make. Manufacturers claim that a reduction of even two decibels could be disastrous for some products. A researcher at Southampton University's Institute of Sound and Vibration Studies said "To remove two decibels you have to remove half the sound energy. That would be quite an engineering achievement."
Noise Control Officers in Montreal Outfitted to Monitor Noise of All Types. The Gazette reports on Montreal's Noise Control Officers, and the problems that their urban counterparts everywhere face. This quote-heavy article is a humorous, literary take on urban noise. Montreal itself forbids construction noise between 7 PM and 7 AM. The city has a noise department to deal with relatively constant sounds (like air conditioners, ventilation systems, etc).
Poor Weather Forces Rescheduling of Noise Tests to Help Boaters Comply with New Noise Law on Chicago area's Chain o' Lakes. The Chicago Tribune reports that noise tests, designed to help boaters comply with a new noise ordinance on the Chicago area's Chain o' Lakes, were poorly attended due to miserable weather. The tests will be rescheduled for early June. The new ordinance starts with the state-mandated 90 dB limit for idling boats and 70 dB for moving boats, but gives marine officers the ability to determine excessive noise by ear since traditional noise-measuring equipment is designed for use on the open water.
Burbank, California's Airport Reworks Expansion Proposal, Reducing Terminal Size and Gate Count. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that Burbank Airport officials adjusted their expansion proposal to better address the concerns of Burbank's City Council. The adjusted document requests 30% less new terminal space, promises steps towards reducing noise in surrounding communities, and proposes that the number of gates be expanded to only 16; the airport would have the option to add three more gates in or after the year 2010. Burbank has long been concerned about airport expansion, and the airport commissioner says the revised proposal "gives the Burbank City Council long-term control over expansion of the terminal."
Citizen Criticizes Noise Ordinance Amendment as Poorly Written at Batavia, New York City Council Hearing. The Buffalo News reports that a noise ordinance amendment in Batavia, New York drew mixed reviews from citizens at the City Council public hearing. The amendment, targeting mainly barking dogs and loud music from cars, is intended to strengthen vague language from the original, setting "objective standards... for violations." One speaker said it was a "legal nightmare" suggesting that even ice cream trucks would be cited. One speaker of three said he would support the amendment, or anything to quiet the streets. The amendment will be voted on June 14.
Louisville, Kentucky Volunteer Committee on Aircraft Noise to Present Findings. The Courier-Journal reports that volunteer committees studying aircraft noise, sponsored by the Regional Airport Authority, will present their findings. The committee intends to help Leigh Fisher Associates decide how to measure and deal with airport noise.
Oceana Naval Base Near Virginia Beach Reports Noise Complaint Increase, Blames Added Squadrons, Weather and Repairs. The Virginian-Pilot reports that Oceana Naval Air Station saw a 30 percent spike in aircraft noise complaints last month. Normally the base receives about 50 complaints each month, but with several squadrons of loud jets relocating from Florida and unpredictable weather redirecting flight paths, noise has increased.
Queens Representative Hails Increase of Federal Funds for Reducing Airplane Noise. The Daily News reports that the House has passed a legislative amendment designating $10 million per year for three years to reduce airplane noise. The money will go to NASA's aircraft noise reduction research, representing a 44% increase in current funding.
Suburban Communities Surrounding Chicago's O'Hare Airport Say Soundproofing Should Include More Homes, Citing Noise Monitor Data Collected Independently. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the anti-noise Suburban O'Hare Commission (SOC) has been monitoring noise from the airport independently of the city. SOC claims that the data shows high levels of noise up to 80 decibels in communities not covered in this year's soundproofing eligibility list. Gigi Gruber, mayor of one nearby community, says "they average out the silent times with the noisy times and come up with a number. But when airplanes fly over, noise is still at a high level.
Airplanes' Noise Affects Quality of Life in Vero Beach, Florida. Anyone remember the introduction to the "Fantasy Island" TV show?
Board of Lehigh and Northampton Airport, Near Allentown, Pennsylvania Compromises to Begin Noise Monitoring Program Before Senate Funding Passes. The Morning Call reports that after heated debate, a compromise to begin a noise-monitoring program was reached at the Lehigh and Northampton Airport near Allentown, Pennsylvania. One grant meant to fund the program had been eaten up by other projects, and a second federal grant is still pending in the Senate. To avoid further delays, the Authority agreed to fund the design stages until the grant came through; then, those costs could be reimbursed and the necessary equipment could be purchased.
Chicago's O'Hare Airport Slacking on Use of Preferred Night Runways that Disturb Fewer Residents, but Introduction of Quieter Planes Helps to Lessen Noise Complaints. The Chicago Sun-Times reports that O-Hare Airport's "Fly Quiet" guidelines, created in 1997 to limit noise between 10 PM and 7 AM, are not always being adhered to. Use of two designated night runways, selected because their flight paths avoid most residential areas, has declined. Despite this fact, nighttime noise complaints have declined from 2,234 to 1,246, due in part to the phasing out of noisier "Phase II" aircraft.
Chicago's O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission Asked City to Identify Airlines Not Adhering to Preferred Flight Paths. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that O'Hare's Noise Compatibility Commission has asked city officials to identify which airlines stray from routes designed to limit airport noise in residential areas. Many flights are ignoring the designated runways, or turning earlier than suggested.
Consultants Recommend that Warwick, Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport Buy Homes Subjected to Most Noise, and Consider Extending Shorter Runway. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Landrum & Brown, noise consultants for Rhode Island's Airport Corporation, recommended the $20 million purchase of at least 135 residences surrounding Warwick's T.F. Green Airport. The residences selected are subjected to at least 65-70 dB of airport noise each day, caused by ever-increasing air traffic at the airport. The $100-300 million extension of a shorter runway, which would redistribute more flights over less populated areas such as an industrial park, was not in the noise consultants report; the consultants did encourage a second look at extending the runway, saying that other benefits other than noise abatement may help to justify the cost. The Corporation's Board of Directors will vote on the proposals and forward them to the FAA for adoption.
Consultants for Warwick, Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport Recommend Buying Homes as Most Cost-Effective Way to Reduce Noise Exposure to Residents. The Associated Press reports that consultants for Rhode Island's Airport Corp. have recommended the purchase of at least 135 homes who are exposed to 70 dB or more of noise from T.F. Green Airport over a 24-hour period. The recommendation came after many homes had already been soundproofed, and options such as extending a secondary runway were explored.
Consultants for Warwick, Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport Recommend Buying Homes as Most Cost-Effective Way to Reduce Noise Exposure to Residents. The Associated Press reports that consultants for Rhode Island's Airport Corp. have recommended the purchase of at least 135 homes who are exposed to 70 dB or more of noise from T.F. Green Airport over a 24-hour period. The recommendation came after many homes had already been soundproofed, and options such as extending a secondary runway were explored.
County Commissioners in Asheville, North Carolina Consult State Wildlife Commission Concerning Noise and Other Disturbance from an Airboat Operation on the French Broad River. The Asheville Citizen-Times reports that Buncombe County Commissioners will ask the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission for help in determining the environmental threats that a small airboat operation may have on the French Broad River. In addition to environmental concerns, citizens are worried about effects on other recreation, safety, and hearing.
Glendale, California's City Council Voted to Support a Proposed Curfew on Burbank Airport Night Flights. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that the Glendale, California city council voted to support a curfew on night flights at Burbank airport. For at least four years, Glendale's city council had been against the curfew, but with two new council members the council has come to side with the other members of the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority. The airport had already applied to the FAA for the curfew, and so the vote serves more to identify Glendale as a new ally in the city of Burbank's battle against unrestricted airport expansion and excessive noise.
Greensboro, North Carolina's Piedmont Triad International Airport Remains the Choice for Federal Express Hub. High Point Enterprise reports that FedEx intends to go through with the $3 million hub project at Greensboro, North Carolina's Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTIA). Five other Carolina airports were in the running, but most seem to have accepted that PTIA has won; Charlotte/Douglas International Airport, in the preliminary phases of constructing a cargo complex, says they would still be interested, if the deal fell through for any reason. FedEx picked PTIA thirteen months ago, and remains firm in its decision despite community opposition.
Irvine, California's City Council to Sue Against Demonstration of Commercial Jet Noise at El Toro Military Base on Environmental Grounds. The Orange County Register reports that Irvine, California will sue the County to stop a two-day demonstration of commercial jet noise at El Toro military base. The demonstration is intended to give residents a taste of how noisy it may be if the base is converted into a commercial airport. Eight different kinds of planes will land and take off up to five times each. Also, ten noise monitors will be set up, although data collected over only two days will not be scientifically significant.
Irvine, California's city council Sues County Over Planned Jet Noise Test at El Toro Marine Base, Insisting on Environmental Review. The Los Angeles Times reports that the Irvine, California's City Council will sue the County over a planned test of commercial jet noise at El Toro Marine base. The council wants the county to obtain an environmental review, and consider public safety issues involved, before the two-day test, during which noise from 27 takeoffs and landings will be recorded using 10 noise monitors. The study is intended to determine whether commercial jets can use the facility without excessive disturbance of the surrounding residential communities. The County supervisors, military and federal regulators have all approved the test, saying an environmental study is not needed.
Las Vegas, Nevada Air Tour Operators Upset Over Proposed National Park Service Rule To Limit Noise to Levels Below Ambient Sounds. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that Nevada's air tour industry believes a new rule proposed by the National Park Service could destroy their industry by limiting noise levels for Grand Canyon National Park. The rule would limit non-natural noise to 8 dB below natural sounds, although a federal court ruled that 3 dB above natural sounds would be sufficient; the park has been divided into different sound regions, so the natural noise limit would range between 20 and 40 dBs, depending on the location within the park.
New Noise Ordinance in Chicago's Fox River Allows Noisy Boats to be Identified By Ear. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a new noise ordinance put in place by the Fox Waterway Agency will discard the old 90 dB noise limit for the subjective limit at which "peace is breached" on the Fox River. The ordinance was introduce because decibel meters were unreliable on the Fox River, where sound bounces off buildings, and many window-rattling violators were having their tickets thrown out in court. First, second, and third noise violations carry minimum $35, $200, and $500 fines respectively.
New Orleans International Airport's Noise Consultants Begin Study, Hold First in Series of Public Hearings. The Times-Picayune reports that Barnard Dunkelberg and Associates, a noise consulting firm for the New Orleans International Airport held the first in a new series of public hearings. The firm has begun their 15-month study which will evaluate the effect of airport noise on neighborhoods in nearby Kenner, Louisiana. Noise monitoring sites have been chosen, but which will be used on any day will remain secret.
Peoria, Arizona Councilwoman's Proposed Noise Wall Fronts Her Own House, Creating Conflict of Interest. The Arizona Republic reports on a noise wall proposed in Peoria, Arizona. The wall has been proposed by councilwoman Rebekah Coty who lives in the community; she has said that she will allow her fellow council members to make the decision, to avoid a conflict of interest.
Public Library Board in Fishers, Indiana OKs New Policy for Reducing Noise in Library and Suspending Privileges for Uncooperative Patrons. The Indianapolis Star reports that the Fishers, Indiana Public Library Board approved a new policy to deal with increasing noise-related complaints in their two branches. Problems have included parents yelling to their children, higher numbers of cell phone and pager disruptions, and disruptively loud conversations. The policy establishes a procedure of issuing a written or verbal warning.
Residents Upset at Noise from Sky Harbor International Airport's Increased Use of a Flight Path Over Arizona's Ahwatukee Foothills. The Arizona Republic reports that since Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix increased its use of an older flight path over the Ahwatukee Foothills, residents have been subjected to increased noise. While many residents are upset, airport officials say they have no solution. Some local legislators are concerned, but maintain that this is fundamentally a federal issue.
Stuart, Florida's County Commission Meeting Packed by Witham Field/Martin County Airport Watch Committee Members Demanding Airport Noise Reduction. The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports that 100 members of the Witham Field/Martin County Airport Watch packed a County Commission meeting in Stuart, Florida with a list of several demands relating to reduction of airport noise. They claimed that the Commission had basically relinquished control of the airport to the FAA, and was not sufficiently curbing increased air traffic and noise in accordance with their existing limited growth policies. Commission Chairwoman Janet Gettig agreed with their concerns, citing her opposition of several commission actions including recent approval of a new airport lease; she plans to place the issue on the Commission's agenda in the near future.
California City To Sue Orange County Over Flights. The Orange County Register reports that the Irvine City Council took an aggressive legal position instead of merely accepting flight demonstrations scheduled at the Marine Corps Air Station at El Toro.
California Senate Approves Budget Increase For Airport Noise Remedies. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that the California Senate approved a $400,000 budget increase to insulate homes in the flight path of Burbank Airport against noise.
California State Senate Oks Funds For Flight Path. The Los Angeles times reports that the state Senate voted to add $400,000 to the state budget for insulating 50 homes that lie under the flight path of Burbank Airport.
California Town's Support of Curfew Critical in Ending Airport Battle. According to the Daily News of Los Angeles, a turnover in airport commissioners from the Glendale City Council has resulted in an imminent end to a four year battle with the city of Burbank over a noise curfew and the expansion of the airport terminal.
California and the federal government will pay residents in Burbank, California who live under Burbank Airport flight paths to noise-proof their homes. The Daily News of Los Angeles: Glendale/Burbank Edition reports that the state Senate has designated $400,000, together with $1.6 million from the federal government, to help residents affected by noise from Burbank Airport noise-proof their homes.
City Council Approves Noise Abatement Policy (May 27, 1999). According to the Bangor Daily News, Bangor city councilors on the airport committee approved a noise abatement policy for Bangor International Airport.. BANGOR - According to the Bangor Daily News, city councilors on the airport committee approved a noise abatement policy for Bangor International Airport (BIA).
City Council Approves Noise Abatement Policy. BANGOR - According to the Bangor Daily News, city councilors on the airport committee approved a noise abatement policy for Bangor International Airport (BIA).
Clinton Administration's Noise Controls For Mines Criticized. The Associated Press reports that a Republican senator from Wyoming is questioning the Clinton administration's proposal to require that mine operators protect workers from noise.
Commonwealth Court Examines Hazardous Noise for Workers' Compensation. The Legal Intelligencer reports two cases in which the Commonwealth Court has looked at the circumstances where a Workers' Compensation Judge may review and consider the facts of a case.
English Businessman Wins Damages Over Aircraft Noise. The Press Association of England reports a High Court awareded a wealthy resident ƒ10,750 because of the effect of aircraft noise on the value of his home. The PA article the judge as stating that it was not as if the residence - 15 miles from Gatwick Airport- was "on the end of a B52 runway", but it was a question of degree of noise. The article stated that the resident, Graham Farley, was not an overly sensitive man and had done his best to tolerate the situation. Farley attempted to avoid problems initially by giving instructions to Michael Skinner, a surveryor whom he had paid, to check the effect of the house's proximity to Gatwick, and now his view now was that he shouldn't have to tolerate the noise.
Fenton, Missouri Board of Aldermen Approved a Bill that Limits Noisy Construction to Roughly Daylight Hours. St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Fenton Board of Aldermen has limited the hours that construction companies can create noise to between 7 AM and sunset during the week, and between 8 AM and sunset on Saturdays and Sundays. Construction noise is defined as the work, related vehicular traffic and other noises that emanate from a construction site.
How Loud Can Sound Be? (May 27, 1999) According to The Hartford Courant, sound, which is measured in decibels (dB), ranges from normal conversation at 50 to 60 dB to the loudest sound tolerated by the human ear at about 120dB. The Hartford Courant gives several examples of different sounds that we hear in the course of a normal day. A soft whisper measures 30 dB. Trains can produce a sound measuring as high as 93 dB about 100 feet in advance. An alarm clock at two feet measures 80 dB. Immediate danger to the human ear is 120 dB, sound levels from a thunderclap or in front of speakers at rock concerts.. THE Hartford Courant reports on sound volume, which is measured in decibels, (dB). The article gives several expampls of different sounds that we can hear in the course of a normal day. Normal conversation measures about 50 to 60 dB. According to the Courant, the loudest sound that can be tolerated by the human ear is about 120 dB. Federal Railroad Administration officials, reports the Courant, say a train traveling 45 miles per hour or greater would produce a sound measuring a maximum of 93 dB. The article goes on to say that FRA regulations require train warning horns to be set no less than 96dB, to be heard 100 feet in advance. The article lists several other sounds that we hear: 30 dB -- a quiet Library or soft whisper; 70 dB -- busy traffic, noisy restaurant. At this level, reports the Courant, noise may begin to affect your hearing if exposure is constant. Subways, heavy city traffic, alarm clock at two feet, and factory noise all measure 80 dB. These noises are dangerous if you are exposed to them for more than eight hours. A Chain saw, stereo headphones, pneumatic drill measure 100 dB. According to the article, even two hours of exposure can be dangerous at 100 dB and with each 5 dB increase, the "safe time" is cut in half. Sound at a Rock concert in front of speakers, sandblasting, thunderclap measure 120 dB, and the danger is immediate, reports the Courant. At 120 dB, the article reports, exposure can injure your ear. A gunshot blast and a jet plane measure 140 dB, and the article reports that any length of exposure time is dangerous and may cause actual pain in the ear. At 180 dB, the sound at a rocket launching pad, noise at this level causes irreversible damage without ear protection and hearing loss is inevitable. The Hartford Courant data on decibel level was compiled by the Deafness Research Foundation for BlueCross and BlueShield of Massachusetts
How Loud Can Sound Be?. Sound, which is measured in decibels (dB), ranges from normal conversation (50-60 dB) to the loudest sound tolerated by the human ear (+120dB), according to the Hartford Courant. The article cites several examples of different sounds that we hear in the course of a normal day. A soft whisper measures 30 dB. Trains can produce a sound measuring as high as 93 dB about 100 feet in advance. An alarm clock at two feet measures 80 dB. Immediate danger to the human ear is 120 dB--sound levels from a thunderclap or sitting in front of speakers at rock concerts.
Illinois Airport Plans To Monitor Airplane Noise (May27, 1999).. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that esidents near Schaumburg Airport have registered so many complaints about airplane noise that airport officials are now monitoring noise levels. Officials added, according to the report, that pilots have emphasized their intent to be as considerate as possible of residents in the area.
Noise Control for Mines Criticized by Republican Senator. Associated Press reports Sen. Michael B. Enzi, R-Wyo., chairman of the Senate subcommittee on employment, safety and training is questioning the Clinton administration's proposal to require that mine operators protect workers from noise by buying quieter machines or rotating employees.
Ontario's Mississauga East Election Issues Include Increased Noise from a New Runway at Pearson International. The Toronto Star reports that the candidates in the provincial riding in Mississauga East, Ontario are going head to head on the issues, including airport noise; noise-related complaints have doubled since 1997 when a new runway was introduced at Pearson International Airport.
Overwhelming Majority of 50 Residents at Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania Town Board Meeting Oppose a Proposed Noise Ordinance to Restrict Firearm Discharge. The Morning Call reports that only three of more than 50 residents at a recent Upper Saucon, PA Town Board meeting supported a proposed ordinance to enforce noise levels; the ordinance would restrict shooting ranges to industrial zones.
Roselle (Chicago Suburb), Illinois' Schaumburg Airport to Monitor Noise Ordinance Compliance in Response to Resident Complaints. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that Schaumburg Regional Airport, on the outskirts of Chicago, plans to implement a noise abatement monitoring program in response to continued resident complaints. The program would track flights on random days and record whether pilots are legally high enough when they turn to fly over residential areas.
Vote On Noise Ordinance Delayed at Pennsylvania Township Meeting; More than 50 Protest Proposal. The Morning Call reports that over 50 residents attended an Upper Saucon Township Board of Supervisors meeting to stop a proposed noise ordinance that defines and enforces noise levels and restricts the location of shooting ranges.
Wayne, Maine Public Hearings Propose an Ordinance Forbidding Personal Water Craft on Local Ponds and a Change in How Noise from Alleged Noise Ordinance Violators is Measured. Kennebec Journal reports on a series of Wayne, Maine public hearings dealing with an ordinance to ban personal water craft on local ponds, and a change in measuring noise ordinance violations.
Bid For Noise Barrier Puts Arizona Town Council Against the Wall (May 28, 1999). A city councilwoman in Peoria wants the town council to approve a bid for a block wall between a busy avenue and nearby homes with acre-plus lots. Her proposal is controversial because she would be one of the wall's biggest beneficiaries. The town council voted to table the discussion until after her term expires in June.. Peoria, AZ - The Arizona Republic reports that Councilwoman Rebekah Coty wants a block wall built between Olive Avenue and the homes in West Olive Farms, a development in Peoria with acre-plus lots.
Bid For Noise Barrier Puts Arizona Town Council Against the Wall. The Arizona Republic reports that a city councilwoman in Peoria wants the town council to approve a bid for a block wall between a busy avenue and nearby homes with acre-plus lots. Her proposal is controversial because she would be one of the wall's biggest beneficiaries.
Department of Transportation To Measure for Noise Along I-. The Plain Dealer reports that an engineer for the Ohio Department of Transportation will measure the noise level of vehicles traveling on Interstate 480.
Illinois Town Targets Loud Parties With Second Noise Ordinance. The Chicago Tribune reports that the Fox Waterway Agency's board of directors passed a second noise ordinance this year because of complaints about excessive noise on the waterway, not from boat engines but from loud parties.
Louisiana Residents Angered by Airport's Delay To control Noise. The Times-Picayune reports that residents of Kenner, a small town near the New Orleans airport attended a public hearing about airplane noise. The purpose of the hearing was to explain recommendations given by the federal government, but residents were suspicious that the hearing was merely window dressing, and that the results simply justify what airport officials are already doing.
Airport Report Goes to Missouri City Council. The Kansas City Star reports that the Board of Aeronautical Commissioners unanimously approved a report on the environmental impacts of a proposed expansion of the Lee's Summit Municipal Airport. The report is scheduled to go before the City Council and, if approved, will go on to the Missouri Department of Transportation. Once approved by the department, the project will proceed. If it is rejected, the department will determine that a more in-dept environmental impact is needed.
Group Says Jet Skis Cause Great Harm to Air, Waterways. The Boston Globe reports that a Maryland conservation group and personal watercraft industry officials are clashing over pollution concerns caused by jet skis.
JET NOISE RATTLES AHWATUKEE FOOTHILLS; FLIGHT-PATH SHIFT ANGERS RESIDENTS (May 29, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports that the residents of the Ahwatukee Foothill have complained that their once peaceful and serene neighborhoods are destroyed by increased noise from airplanes leaving Sky Harbor International Airport. The article says that although residents are pressuring local and federal officials for help, a Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said the problem may lessen somewhat on its own.. Phoenix, AZ - The Arizona Republic reports that the residents of the Ahwatukee Foothills have complained that their once peaceful and serene neighborhoods are being destroyed by increased noise from airplanes leaving nearby Sky Harbor International Airport.
Jet Noise Distrubs Arizona Foothills and Angers Residents. The Arizona Republic reports that the residents of the Ahwatukee Foothills have complained that their once tranquil neighborhoods are being destroyed by increased noise from airplanes leaving nearby Sky Harbor International Airport.
Louisiana Racetrack Loses Bid to Block Town From Enforcing Noise Ordinance. An Associated Press article reports that on the eve of a special racing event, the Boothill Speedway in Greenwood, Louisiana lost its battle with the town's enforcement of a noise ordinance. Boothill Speedway owners were prepared for a fine because the special event would violate curfew and noise ordinances, but were not prepared for the ruling.
Louisiana Racetrack Loses; Noise Ordinance Wins (May 29, 1999).. An Associated Press article reports that on the eve of a special racing event, the Boothill Speedway in Greenwood, Louisiana lost its battle with the town's enforcement of a noise ordinance.
AIRPORT'S REBATE PROGRAM HELPS LAND QUIETER FLIGHTS (May 30 1999). According to the Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel, airport officials at Palm Beach International Airport are paying airlines over $200,000 in rebates if they use quieter airliners.. The Sun-Sentinel reports that at Palm Beach International Airport(PBIA), more money means less noise. The Sun-Sentinel reports that PBIA officials can find no other airport that saw as much of a reduction. The article also quoted Waters regarding the protocol airlines must follow the regulations. "If a carrier backslides from quarter to quarter, or if they increase number of nighttime Stage 2 operations, they get nothing," she said.
Airport's Rebate Program To Aid in Quiter Flights. According to the Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel, airport officials at Palm Beach International Airport (PBIA) are paying airlines over $200,000 in rebates if they use quieter airliners.
Residents in Orange County California Debate Proposed El Toro Airport. The Los Angeles Times printed letters to the editor against the opening a former military airport to commercial traffic in Orange County.
California Towns Consider Restrictions on Personal Watercraft, Residents Line Up On Both Sides (May 31 1999). The PM Cycle reports that jet skis, boats and all personal watercraft will face new restrictions at Donner Lake near Truckee. Noise, water quailty and safety are all concerns addressed in the regulations, according to the article. The article goes on to say that residents in Truckee and Donner Lake are calling for for sweeping changes in regulation of watercraft based on a similar ban at nearby Lake Tahoe. Other residents who support stricter regulation claim the new restrictions are not strict enough, while still others oppose the new restrictions claiming their civil rights are being violated, the article says.. TRUCKEE, Ca - Pm Cycle reports that jet skis and other personal watercraft will face new and sweeping restrictions at nearby Donner Lake in a proposal by the town council.
California Towns For and Against Restrictions on Personal Watercraft. The Associated Press reports that jet skis and other personal watercraft will face new and sweeping restrictions at Donner Lake in a proposal by the town council.
Celebrity Late Night Flights in Teterboro Fuel Local Concern and Action (May 31 1999). The New York News reports that Hollywood celebrities, professional sports teams, and corporate executives who jet into the Teterboro Airport during late night and early morning hours have prompted neighborhood residents to lodge formal complaints, calling for an investigation by nearby municipalities, noise monitoring organizations and state and federal legislators.. TETERBORO, N.J. - The Daily News (New York) reports that the jet set is welcome at Teterboro Airport but not their noisy planes.
Congress and Air Tour Industry Criticize NPS Noise Proposal for Grand Canyon. Politicians and air tourism officials testified at a recent House subcommittee against a National Park Service Proposal (NPS) banning sections of the Grand Canyon as off limits to commercial tours according to the Weekly of Business Aviation. Both groups challenge the motives and methods of park service officials, claiming extremism has taken over.
Late Night Celebrity Flights at New Jersey Airport Fuel Local Concern and Action. The New York News reports that Hollywood celebrities, professional sports teams, and corporate executives who jet into the Teterboro Airport during late night and early morning hours have prompted neighborhood residents to lodge formal complaints. The residents have asked municipalities near the airport, noise monitoring organizations, and state and federal legislators to investigate.
Pile Drivers Move Residents Out of House and Home (May 31 1999). The Press reports that the incessant noise caused by pile driving at a highly controversial development area has caused people to move out of their homes. Some residents claim the city council willfully and knowingly deceived residents by issuing a construction permit without the public's knowledge.. The Press reports that Salisbury Street residents Jessica Gordon and Julie Robertson will move out of their flat because ever-present pile driving at a nearby controversial Park Terrace development has created unbearable noise. The article further reports that people across the road had also moved out, and other residents who work nights at a nearby casino couldn't sleep during the day. Residents contend that the construction is destroying the community, said The Press.
Pile Drivers Move UK Residents Out of House and Home. The Press reports that the incessant noise caused by pile driving at a highly controversial development area has caused people to move out of their homes. Some residents claim the city council willfully and knowingly deceived residents by issuing a construction permit without the public's knowledge.
Aircraft Noise
Amplified Noise
Effects on Wildlife/Animals
Construction Noise
Firing Ranges
Health Effects
Home Equipment and Appliances
Industrial/Manufacturing
International News
Environmental Justice
Land Use and Noise
Lawsuits
Civil Liberty Issues
Miscellaneous Noise Stories
Noise Ordinances
Noise Organizations Mentioned
Outdoor Events
Noise in Our National Parks/Natural Areas
Regulation
Residential and Community Noise
Snowmobile and ATV Noise
Research and Studies
Technological Solutions to Noise
Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
Watercraft Noise
Workplace Noise