Technological Solutions to Noise

This page is sponsored by E. I. Williams and Kinetics Noise Control.


Chicago Area Communities To Receive Soundproofing (Apr. 20, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times reported that homes in communities near O'Hare Airport will receive soundproofing as part of a $30 million city-suburb program.

Canadian Buses Too Noisy for Woman (Apr. 19, 2000). The Vancouver Sun reported a complaint from a woman who says that diesel buses make more noise than the electric trolley buses from previous years.

Natural Sound Wall for City of Berkeley Needs State Approval (Apr. 17, 2000). According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the city of Berkeley designed a natural sound wall of flora and fauna along Interstate 80, and asked the state's transportation department to approve the special design.

Squeaky Floors and Foam Padding Relieve Harried Homeowner (Apr. 17, 2000). The Associated Press printed this article about home repair on reducing noise in the floor from baseboard heat. The article is in question-and-answer form and is printed in its entirety.

Compromises Help to Make Canadian Military Ships Quieter (Apr. 16, 2000). A report in Jane's Defence Upgrades states that after a three-year analysis of noise abatement to Canada's Halifax-class ships, a compromise solution may be the only solution.

EU Must Respond to Ban on American Hush Kits (Apr. 15, 2000). An article by the Associated Press reported that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has given the European Commission (EU) until the end of June respond to the United States' complaints over its ban on hush kits--noise reducing technology for noisy jets.

Canadian City Planner to Tear Down Noise Walls for Good (Apr. 15, 2000). The Ottawa Citizen printed an article about a city planner in Nepean, Ottawa who is redesigning the city and building in more character. Included in the plans is the elimination of noise walls in neighborhoods.

New Noise Walls Planned But Who Picks Up the Tab? (Apr. 15, 2000). According to the Arizona Republic, noise from Interstate 10 already interferes with the quality of life and peace of mind for residents who live nearby, but a construction project for a local loop has added to the din.

New Nissan Sentra Produces Less Interior Noise (Apr. 14, 2000). The Washington Times published an auto review on the new Nissan Sentra. The reviewer reports very favorably on the vehicle, and is particularly impressed with its quieter interior.

Buffalo, New York Engineering Students Win Design Contest for Quieter, Less Polluting Snowmobile (Apr. 13, 2000). The New York Times reports that State University of New York Buffalo engineering students have designed a way to eliminate snowmobile noise and air pollution. They won first place in a contest sponsored recently by the Society for Automotive Engineers.

Scottish Research Team Studies Hospital Noise (Apr. 12, 2000). The Scottish Daily Record and Sunday Mail reports that a group of researchers from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland are studying whether high noise levels in hospitals are adversely affecting patient recovery times and increasing nurses' stress levels. Part of the study will include installing special sound-absorbing ceilings to see if they make a difference.

Homeowners Can Build Their Own Garden Sound Berms to Block Noise from Neighbors (Apr. 12, 2000). The San Francisco Chronicle publishes a gardening column. The columnist, Michele Driscoll Alioto, suggests that if readers are bothered by noise from traffic or neighbors' equipment when they are seeking peace and quiet in their gardens, they can help solve the problem by using plants and soil as a noise barrier.

World's First Noise-Reducing Automobile Wheels Developed (Apr. 12, 2000). The Jiji Press Ticker Service out of Tokyo reports that Bridgestone Corporation and Topy Industries, Ltd. have come together to create the first automobile wheels that substantially reduce noise. The wheels accomplish this because of shock-absorbing rubber installed between the rim and the disc.

State of Illinois to Build Sound Barrier Wall for Residents of Busy Road in Village of Lombard (Apr. 12, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that some residents who live on busy North Avenue in Lombard, Illinois have complained about the traffic noise. The state plans to begin a $29.5 million project to widen three miles of the street, turning it into a six-lane highway, and has agreed to install two sound barrier walls on the south side of North Avenue to help reduce the traffic noise. The wall will either be made of wood or concrete.

New Zealand Research Finds That Classrooms Are Too Noisy (Apr. 8, 2000). The Dominion in New Zealand reports that the Speech-Language Therapists Association held a conference recently in Napier, New Zealand. One of the topics discussed was excessive noise in the classroom and its negative effects on the teaching and learning process.

New F-22 Raptor Jet May Be Brought to Langley Air Force Base in Virginia; Studies Show it is Quieter than the F-15 (Apr. 7, 2000). The Daily Press reports that the Air Force has announced that its newest jet fighter, the F-22 Raptor, tests quieter than the F-15, which is the jet currently flown by the First Fighter Wing stationed at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia. Noise measurements were based on ground testing of a pre-production model of the F-22 Raptor, and as such, do not necessarily indicate the noise levels of a jet in flight.

St.Louis, Missouri Ball Park Will Try to Contain Noise with New Sound System (Apr. 5, 2000). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the city of St. Louis, Missouri is taking steps to ensure that noise from the T.R. Hughes Ballpark will be contained when the River City Rascals begin playing ball there this season.

Lakes Wales, Florida Arts Council Requests City and County Funding to Soundproof its Facility (Apr. 4, 2000). The Ledger in Florida reports that the Lake Wales Arts Council has asked the city of Lakes Wales and the county for $9,000 each to pay for the costs to soundproof the Arts Center, which is located in the former Holy Spirit Catholic Church at the busy and noisy intersection of State Road 60 and 11th Street.

Researchers at University of Western Ontario, Canada Study Noise Reduction in Hospital MRI Machines (Apr. 4, 2000). The London Free Press in Ontario, Canada reports that researchers at the University of Western Ontario are undertaking a study to reduce noise from Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines. MRI's are extremely effective in detecting many types of disease by using radio waves and magnetic fields. However, the machine contains a magnet whose gradient coil generates significant amounts of vibration and noise. The noise is bothersome, and possibly damaging, to both patients and technicians.

Technical Solutions to Acoustic Needs for Theater and Concert Hall Spaces (Apr. 1, 2000). Entertainment Design published an interview about theater and concert hall acoustics with expert Rick Talaske of the Talaske Group, Inc. (Tgi) in Oak Park, Illinois. David Napoleon of Entertainment Design was the interviewer.

Wooden Flooring Can Be an Annoying Conductor of Sound in Apartment Buildings (Apr. 1, 2000). The Financial Times in London reports that many city apartment dwellers are at loggerheads with their neighbors over noise. An environmental health officer explains that much of the problem can be fixed with the installation of the proper type of flooring and insulation.

Port of Seattle Nearing Completion of Soundproofing Work on Homes Near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Mar. 31, 2000). The Seattle Times reports that the Port of Seattle, which operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in Washington state, has been diligent in using federal funds to help soundproof approximately 8,000 homes near the airport (which is also known as Sea-Tac). Work began on the homes in 1985, and has cost $163 million. More than 1,000 flights land at Sea-Tac each day.

Suburban High School District Near Chicago Responds to Residents' Complaints About Air Conditioner Noise (Mar. 31, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the noise from air-conditioning units on the roof of Hoffman Estates High School was annoying neighbors. Palatine-Schaumburg Township High School District 211 has responded by agreeing to install sound insulating material around the units. According to the article, the state has been dealing with noise complaints about the high school's air conditioning system ever since it was first installed one and a half years ago. Residents had complained because the air conditioning units were running seven days a week. Assistant Superintendent Robert Rozycki said that it was necessary because of community programs that take place at the school on weekends. They tried turning on the units at 9:00 AM instead of 6:00 AM in an attempt to placate residents.

Scientific Research on Sound Has Many Possible Worldwide Applications (Mar. 30, 2000). The Daily Telegraph in London reports on many scientific studies being conducted on sound and its applications.

Telephone Headset Recommendations (Mar. 30, 2000). The Louisville Courier-Journal in Kentucky reports on telephone headsets that allow for completely hands-free conversation. Different models are recommended.

International Comfort Products Announces New Line of Quieter Air Conditioners (Mar. 29, 2000). The PR Newswire printed a press release issued by International Comfort Products announcing the company's new line of air conditioners. The press release is reprinted here in its entirety:

US Department of Defense Launches Program to Develop Low-Noise, Supersonic Aircraft (Mar. 29, 2000). Jane's Defense Weekly, a British publication, reports on recent US Department of Defense discussions concerning research and development of a new low-noise supersonic aircraft that could conduct long-range reconnaissance missions without being detected.

British Government Invests ƒ760,000 on Road Noise Reduction (Mar. 24, 2000). The London Evening Standard reported on a 760,000ƒ noise abatement grant from the Government to reduce road surface noise on a major highway, A52.

Camden, Maine Residents to Decide on Skateboard Park With Quiet in Mind (Mar. 24, 2000). According to the Bangor Daily News, residents in Camden, Maine will decide on whether to build a skateboard park for young people and where that site will be.

Creve Coeur Missouri Residents Want Sound Barriers on Interstate But State Must Pay (Mar. 23, 2000). According to the St. Louis Dispatch, residents of Creve Coeur want sound barriers around Interstate 270 among other requests to the city council as it reviews projects under the town's capital improvement plan.

Virginia Noise Walls Not the State's Job (Mar. 23, 2000). The Virginian-Pilot printed this letter to the editor regarding noise walls around interstates. The letter and its response are both in their entirety.

Machine Control Noise Levels in Singapore Hospital (Mar. 22, 2000). According to the Straits Times of Singapore, Tan Tock Seng Hospital has installed a machine that warns to be quieter when a certain decibel is reached.

Colorado State University Engineering Students Attempt to Build Clean and Quiet Snowmobile (Mar. 20, 2000). The Denver Post reports that local university teams are competing in Jackson, Wyoming to design cleaner running snowmobiles. The competition is taking place during a time of intense debate over a possible snowmobile ban in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks....

Owens Corning Announces Use of its Silentex (tm) Noise Control System on Many Mufflers of European-built DaimlerChrysler Automobiles (Mar. 20, 2000). Canada Newswire reports that Owens Corning has announced that Silentex (tm), its new noise control system, has been chosen by DaimlerChrysler for use in the manufacture of muffler systems on many of its European-built vehicles. The Silentex (tm) system will be used on the mufflers of several Mercedes-Benz models.

Burbank Airport Begins Home Insulation Program That Extends Beyond Burbank City Limits (Mar. 17, 2000). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Federal Aviation Administration and the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority have undertaken an ambitious home soundproofing program that for the first time extends into the city limits of Los Angeles. The Salazar family have become the first homeowners outside the city of Burbank to receive soundproofing.

Causes of Interior and Exterior Noise in Multi-unit Buildings and Ways to Make Them Quieter (Mar. 17, 2000). Newsday reports that home columnist Al Ubell is concerned with the noise that tenants experience living in apartment buildings. Ubell is also a home inspector who discusses both interior and exterior noise and ways to combat it.

Heavy Duty Trucking Magazine's "Nifty Fifty" Award Won by Donaldson Company's Silent Partner (tm) Truck Muffler (Mar. 17, 2000). The Donaldson Company announced to the press that its Silent Partner (tm) muffler system has won a "Nifty Fifty" Award from Heavy Duty Trucking Magazine. The press release was sent over the PR Newswire and is reprinted here in its entirety:

NCT Hearing Products, Inc. to Buy 60% of Pro Tech Communications, Inc. in Exchange for Rights to Use NCTI Noise Reduction Technologies (Mar. 17, 2000). The Business Wire published the following press statement released by NCT Group, Inc. The press release is re-printed here in its entirety:

Pro Tech Communications Sells 60% of Common Stock to NCT Group, Inc.; Pro Tech Granted Rights to Noisebuster (r) and ClearSpeech (r) Noise and Echo Cancellation Algorithms (Mar. 17, 2000). Pro Tech Communications, Inc. announced to the press the sale of 60% of its common stock to NCT Group, Inc. The press release appeared on the PR Newswire and is reprinted here in its entirety:

Russian Space Station Module Noise Levels Deemed Unhealthy and Dangerous to Astronauts (Mar. 17, 2000). The United Press International reports that the United States Government Accounting Office (GAO) recently testified before the U.S. House of Representatives that continuing to collaborate with Russia on the International Space Station program may be problematic due to Russian safety violations. Excessive noise inside the Russian modules is the most severe of the four violations mentioned. The other violations concern "protecting the modules from penetration by space debris, verifying that the windows are strong enough to withstand years of space exposure, and designing the equipment so it can function even in an emergency when air leaks out of the station."

European Union Disappointed that United States Filed Complaint Over Upcoming EU Hushkit Ban (Mar. 16, 2000). The Xinhua News Agency reports that the European Union is disappointed that the United States filed an Article 84 complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) concerning the EU's ban of older non-EU aircraft outfitted with hushkits (airplane engine noise reduction mufflers.) The EU said that the action will make it more difficult for the EU and the U.S. to arrive at any type of agreement on this issue.

Introduction of Substrate Noise Analyzer Announced by CadMOS Design Technology, Inc. (Mar. 16, 2000). A press release was issued through the Business Wire by CadMOS Design Technology, Inc. The company announces the introduction of its SeismIC (tm) substrate noise analyzer. The press release is reprinted here in its entirety:

European Hushkit Ban Will Affect Tulsa-based Nordam and Other U.S. Hushkit Manufacturers (Mar. 15, 2000). The Tulsa World reports that recent disagreements between the United States and the European Union (EU) over the EU's proposed ban on hushkitted aircraft will severely impact the Nordam Group, a Tulsa-based hushkit manufacturer. Hushkits are engine mufflers installed on older airplanes to reduce noise and air pollution. Other U.S. hushkit manufacturers include United Technologies, Federal Express, and Northwest Airlines. The EU ban is scheduled to go into effect on May 4.

New Hearing Aid Can Better Distinguish Voices From Background Noise (Mar. 14, 2000). The London Daily Mail reports on a new type of hearing aid that more closely mimics the function of the human year. The new hearing aid is called "Claro," and is manufactured by Phonak, a Swiss company.

German Company Wins PACE Award for Designing Automotive Vehicle Noise Management System (Mar. 13, 2000). Crain Communications' Automotive News recently presented the eight winners of the "2000 Automotive News PACE Award." Rieter Automotive Systems AG of Winterthur, Switzerland, won an award for its Ultra Light Vehicle Noise Management System.

Benefits of Active Noise Reduction Headsets in the Workplace (Mar. 1, 2000). Occupational Health and Safety reports that workers who are routinely subjected to long-term, low-frequency background noise such as vehicles, machinery, engines, large compressors, and air conditioning units are suffering many adverse health effects, particularly hearing loss.

Benefits of Uniform Attenuation Hearing Protection in the Workplace (Mar. 1, 2000). Occupational Health and Safety reports on the technical and scientific aspects of workplace noise and how it affects human hearing and communication.

Oldsmobile Aurora Has Features That Make for Quiet Ride (Mar. 1, 2000). Automotive Manufacturing and Production printed a review of the new 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora. Part of the review discusses features that make the Aurora's ride more quiet.

Silencer Muffler Developed for Truck Engine "Jake" Brakes (Mar. 1, 2000). Fleet Equipments reports on the benefits of engine brakes for the trucking industry. The Jacobs Vehicle Systems "Jake" brake is the most commonly used in the industry. Much of the article discusses the safety and technology behind "Jake" brakes. Part of the article is devoted to talking about the noise these brakes produce.

Three Day Airport Noise Seminar in California Unveils New Technology to Reduce Noise (Feb. 20, 2000). According to the Chicago Daily Herald, a three-day conference, titled: "Year 2000 International Airport Noise Symposium," sponsored by the University of California at Berkeley included city officials from the Chicago area who sit on the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission.

Oceana Naval Air Station, Virginia to Construct Soundproofing Facility for Testing Jet Engines (Feb. 19, 2000). The Virginian Pilot reports that the Oceana Naval Air Station will build a $9.9 million "hush house" for testing jet engines. The new soundproofing facility will significantly cut down on the noise generated by the testing of jet engines.

Soundproofing Households in UK Can Reduce Noise (Feb. 19, 2000). The Lifestyle section of the Evening Chronicle printed an article about household noise and how one can reduce it.

Soundproofing Your Home (Feb. 19, 2000). The Evening Chronicle of Newcastle, England reports on ways that homeowners can soundproof their houses in order to reduce noise levels around the home.

Virginia Naval Base Will Enclose Engine Noise (Feb. 19, 2000). According to the Virginian-Pilot, Oceana Naval Air base has finally acted on reducing noise from testing jet engines, a source of irritation for the base's neighbors for years.

Albuquerque City Council Against the Sound Wall (Feb. 18, 2000). The Albuquerque Journal reported on a decision by the city's environmental planning commission to approve the construction of a 10-foot-high, 1,900-foot-long sound barrier against traffic noise near San Mateo Boulevard, a main thoroughfare.

Elevated Vehicle Ramp Noise Lower Than Original Projections (Feb. 16, 2000). According to the Florida Times Union, a newly constructed elevated vehicle ramp won't be so loud as Atlantic Beach commissioners originally thought, and the cost of noise reduction solutions will be lower as a result.

LAX Authorizes Soundproofing for Additional Homes in South Los Angeles (Feb. 16, 2000). The Los Angeles Times reports that soundproofing for more homes near the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has been authorized by the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners.

UK Bar Renovations and Night Curfews May Reduce Noise Levels (Feb. 16, 2000). According to the Grimbsby Evening Telegraph, renovations to a local bar has the support of district councilors because of noise reduction plans bar owners will implement. Council members agree the number one priority is soundproofing the building well.

UK Puts Noise on the Map (Feb. 16, 2000). According to an article from Hermes Database, 12 million people in England are victims of intolerable noise levels from transportation and industry, and the Environment Minister, Michael Meacher announced the nation's first noise map of one city.

Andrea Electronics Corporation Launches E-Commerce Site; Discusses Agreements Over Next Generation Voice Communications Applications (Feb. 15, 2000). PR Newswire published the following press release by Andrea Electronics concerning the launch of its new e-commerce site, and various corporate agreements concerning next generation voice communications applications. The press release is reprinted here in its entirety:

Andrea Electronics Corporation to Demonstrate its Far-Field Digital Microphone at Industry Show in Palm Springs (Feb. 15, 2000). PR Newswire published a press release by Andrea Electronics Corporation announcing its participation at the Spring 2000 Intel Developer Forum in Palm Springs, California. The company will be demonstrating its far-field digital microphone. The press release is re-printed here in its entirety:

More Homes in Vicinity of Los Angeles International Airport to be Soundproofed by the Airport (Feb. 15, 2000). The Business Wire reports that more homes near Los Angeles International Airport will be soundproofed due to a recent order by the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners.

Winconsin Condo Owner's Damp Roof Probable Cause of Noise (Feb. 7, 2000). The Life Style section of the Scripps Howard News Service printed a letter from someone asking about a creaking noise in the roof of her condominium. The letter appears in its entirety.

UK Residents Suffer From Highway Road Noise (Feb. 5, 2000). The Daily Telegraph of London reported on residents in one English town who say their quiet, pastoral life has come to an end because of a new highway that recently opened near their town.

Illinois Tenants Encouraged to Make Sound Improvements Against Noise (Feb. 4, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times suggested several ways to insulate a residence against noise.

Alternatives to Airport Noise in Australia Easy To Do (Feb. 2, 2000). The Canberra Times printed this letter to the newspaper regarding airport noise and possible alternative solutions. The letter is printed in its entirety.

Oklahoma School Children at Risk from Noise and Traffic from Interstate (Feb. 2, 2000). In a column of the Daily Oklahoman, a letter to the editor stresses the need for state or local officials to put up a wall against noise and possible safety hazards posed by traffic on Interstate 44, which runs 100 feet from the playground. The letter is printed in its entirety.

UK Government Panel On Sustainable Development Lists Noise Among Priorities (Feb. 2, 2000). The Hermes Database reported on a governmental panel in England that met recently to look at sustainable development, the environment and how that country views its own resources. What's remarkable about the panel is that it lists noise as one of the priorities, along with such topics as energy strategy, genetically engineered organisms, world trade and the ethics of biotechnology.

US Engineering Students Compete in Nationwide Contest to Design Quieter Snowmobiles (Feb. 1, 2000). An article in the Associated Press reported that if engineering students are successful, then a little more peace and quiet may be in store for Yellowstone National Park, and snowmobiles will have a better public image as a result.

Helicopter Convention Includes Retrofits to Reduce Noise Footprint, Inspired By Noise Problems Over Grand Canyon National Park (Jan. 31, 2000). Aviation Week and Space Technology reports on an international helicopter conference which included the introduction of a retrofitted sightseeing helicopter which is quieter than the original, creating an 80-decibel footprint.

Minnesota Competition Asks College Students to Design a Cleaner, Quieter Snowmobile (Jan. 31, 2000). The Star Tribune reports that engineering students from seven colleges will compete in Jackson, Wyoming to have the cleanest, quietest snowmobile. The issues of air-pollution and noise in Wyoming state parks had been looming large, and the competition was conceived as a constructive way to address the issue.

US Representative Approves Building of Noise Barriers (Jan. 14, 2000). The following is a press release from the Congressional Press Releases regarding the construction of noise barriers along I-75 in Georgia. It is printed in its entirety.

US Snowmobile Manufacturer Announces Quieter Machines For Testing in Yellowstone (Jan. 14, 2000). An article from the PR Presswire reported that Arctic Cat announced that it would loan two prototypes for a quieter snowmobile to the National Park Service for use in Yellowstone National Park.

New Jersey Lawmakers Design Strategy to Reduce Jet Noise at Teterboro (Jan. 14, 2000). The Bergen County Record reported that lawmakers recently met to design a strategy for reducing noise for North Jersey towns near Teterboro Airport, the nation's busiest non-commercial airport.

Missouri School for the Deaf Has New Technology to Reduce Background Noise (Jan. 14, 2000). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Central Institute for the Deaf in St. Louis can better prepare their hearing impaired students for integration into public school because of new technology that reduces exterior noise.

Americans Urged To Increase Awareness of Hearing Hazards, Especially for Children (Jan. 14, 2000). An article from PR Newswire reported health information from The House Ear Institute, saying that if adults and children are in an environment where they must raise their voices to be heard, they are in potentially hazardous-hearing area and hearing protection is recommended.

Noise Levels in US Homes Increasing (Jan. 14, 2000). An article from the PR Newswire reported that modern technology and decreasing lot sizes mean more noise for American homeowners, and that means more stress and less sleep.

Florida County to Measure Music Levels at Bars (Jan. 13, 2000). According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Sarasota County commissioners gave their approval to sheriff's deputies to use sound-level meters to determine noise violations when residents complain about loud music at bars.

Florida Developer To Commercialize Tranquil Residential Area: Noise is Major Concern (Jan. 13, 2000). The St. Petersburg Times reported on commercial developers' buying up the remaining land around this once tranquil town.

Minnesota Airport Noise Consultants Disagree On Noise Impact Area (Jan. 11, 2000). According to the Star Tribune, a dispute between noise consultants resulted in a failure to define noise zones affected by jets using a new runway at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

Community Advisory Board Near Columbus Circle, New York City Is Pushing for Audible Pedestrian Signals for the Blind; Some Residents and Businesses Worry About Potential Noise (Jan. 9, 2000). The New York Times reports that Community Board 4, near Columbus Circle in New York City, is pushing for audible pedestrian-crossing signals for the circle. Residents and business owners worried about noise from excessively loud or shrill crosswalks. The community board said that the crosswalks constantly adjust their volume too be audible above city noise without being excessive or shrill.

Nation's Capital To Modify New, Smaller Buses Because of Noise (Dec. 15, 1999). The Washington Post reports that the new, smaller buses the local transit company bought to reduce noise on narrow District streets, are noisier than the large buses they replaced. Screeching brakes are the reason, the report says. As a result, the local transit company, Metro, will spend about $32,000 to change the break linings on 40 buses.

Sound Walls in Salt Lake City, Utah Cause Controversy (Dec. 10, 1999). The Salt Lake Tribune reported that the Utah Transportation Commission rejected a plea from residents to tear down sound walls between Interstate 215 and Wasatch Boulevard in Salt Lake City even though residents hate them.

Illinois Institute of Technology Will Build Noise-Muffling Tube Around Elevated Train Tracks As Part of a the New Campus Center Construction Project (Dec. 8, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Illinois Institute of Technology will build a noise-muffling tube around elevated train tracks as part of the construction of a new campus center. The 531-foot tube will be sheathed with concrete and steel, and should reduce the noise -- which can reach 120 decibels in the area -- to 40 or 50.

American Airlines Provides Active Noise Reduction Earphones for All Passengers on Some Flights (Dec. 5, 1999). The Sacramento Bee reports that as of November, certain American Airlines flights have included active-noise-reduction earphones for all passengers.

Rolls Royce Sets Up New Technology Center at University of South Hampton in the U.K. (Dec. 1, 1999). The Derby Evening Telegraph reports that Rolls Royce will invest 1.6 million pounds in a new technology center at the University of Southampton in the U.K. to reduce noise from aircraft engines.

Toshiba Introduces MRI Scanner that Reduces Noise for Patient By 90% (Nov. 29, 1999). Business Wire reports that Toshiba has introduced an MRI scanner that is 90% quieter than previous models.

French Officials Say Pollution-Reduction to Comply with Kyoto Conference Global Warming Protocol Should Be Coupled with Noise Reduction (Nov. 22, 1999). Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that French environmental officials believe that in working towards the carbon dioxide limits set by the U.N.'s global warming conference in Kyoto, researchers should also prioritize noise reduction. Turbines are 40% quieter than they were in the 1970s, and many further gains in noise reduction will result from work on non-engine components.

Yokohama Tire Company Introduces Quieter Tire (Nov. 22, 1999). The Rubber and Plastics News reports that the Yokohama Tire Company has introduced a new high-performance tire called the "AVS dB (for decibel)" that gives a quiet ride.

New Product -- Produced Jointly by Two Building Companies -- Replaces Lengthy Process for Reducing Noise in Homes (Nov. 17, 1999). PR Newswire reports that two building companies -- Owens Corning and Trus Joist MacMillan -- have formed an alliance to produce new technologies for noise-reduction in the home. The first product is an easily installed solution to the traditional multi-step process used to keep vibration form passing easily from one side of a wall to the other.

Foam- and Concrete-Based Homes -- Which Insulate Homes Extremely Well From Temperature and Noise -- Gain Popularity (Nov. 7, 1999). The Columbian reports that homes with walls made of styrofoam and concrete are gaining popularity. The R-value -- or temperature/noise insulation value -- can reach R-56, as opposed to the average wood wall's R-20. Costs that can be 5% to 10% higher up front, although utility bills can run as low as $100/month for a 6,000 square foot home.

Builder Gives Tips on How to Soundproof Your Home (Oct. 16, 1999). The Arizona Republic prints a column that answers questions about building. The builder answers a question about how to soundproof a home that is already built, and then moves on to describe steps that can be taken in the construction of a new house.

New Noise-Reducing Composite Introduced by Minneapolis, Minnesota Company (Sep. 20, 1999). Design News reports that the Minneapolis, Minnesota company Prospec has introduced a new composite that is designed to reduce noise. The alternating layers of sound-absorbing foam and sound-containing vinyl could be placed in machinery housings to reduce noise.

West Lafayette, Indiana's Purdue University Creates Institute to Study Tire and Highway Noise (Sep. 20, 1999). Rubber & Plastics News reports that Purdue University in West LaFayette, Indiana has created the Institute of Safe, Quiet and Durable Highways. Tires have been studied at the University for years, and researchers already believe road noise to result from several distinct factors that warrant further study. The institute will have a $7 million budget for its first five years. There are opposing views at the new institute regarding the usefulness of "rubber-modified" asphalt, and it remains to be seen whether much research will be done in that area.

Mine Safety and Health Administration Issues New Standards to Protect Miners from Prolonged Exposure to Dangerous Noise (Sep. 9, 1999). The U.S. Newswire reports that the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) will now require mine operators to monitor noise exposure and also make training, hearing tests, and hearing protection available to miners who are exposed to more than an 85 decibel average over eight hours. Hearing loss is one of the top occupational hazards among miners, and may reduce safety in the workplace.

Soundproofing Company Opens New Research Facility in Scotland (Sep. 9, 1999). The Scotsman reports that "one of the most advance facilities of its kind in Europe to improve and develop acoustic products for the construction industry opened this month" in Perthshire, Scotland. The company will market floor and wall-insulation products that will help developers market their buildings and help homeowners cope with noise.

Automated Horn System that Places Warning Horns at Rail Intersections Instead of On Trains Tested in Boca Raton, Florida (Sep. 9, 1999). The Sun-Sentinel reports that residents of Boca Raton, Florida seemed enthusiastic after City-Council-sponsored tests of an Automated Horn System at rail crossings. The system places horns at the intersection and focuses them only on the intersection. City Council is considering a free six-month trial of the $15,000 systems. Florida has had night-time bans on train whistles in the past; after being judged too dangerous, the bans are being allowed again if $200,000 four-quadrant gates are installed to prevent cars from sneaking around the gates. Boca Raton is not near the top of the state's priority list for receiving the gates, and so the Automated Horn System is an attractive option.

Letter Writer Says Placement of Housing Developments Near DIA Airport in Aurora, Colorado Sets Stage for Future Litigation Over Noise (Sep. 6, 1999). The Denver Rocky Mountain News prints a letter to the editor by a realtor from Aurora, Colorado. The writer is concerned that after DIA Airport was built intentionally in an area away from residential neighborhoods, new development plans will place residences there and set the stage for future litigations that taxpayers will end up paying for.

Chicago O'Hare Airport Built First "Hush-House" For Quieting Engine Tests in 1997 (Aug. 31, 1999). The Columbian reports that the first 'hush-house' -- a three-walled enclosure designed to reduce noise from engine testing at airports -- was built at Chicago O'Hare Airport in 1997. Noise is reduced by three-quarters, and complaints about engine-testing noise stopped. Maintenance crews love the structure, since it is in an area where no runway crossings are required, and since it is lit particularly well. Although using the $3.2-million structure is voluntary, over 80% used it last year.

Company Develops Quieter System to Cool Computer Systems, Making Noise Virtually Undetectable (Aug. 30, 1999). The Korea Times reports that Major Research and Development has produced an anti-noise system for computers that reduces a typical noise level of 30 decibels to a nearly undetectable 20.

Active Noise Control Technologies that Could Reduce Traffic Noise Under Development at Japanese Universities (Aug. 20, 1999). The Daily Yomiuri reports that Japanese universities are developing active noise control (ANC) technologies that could reduce traffic noise not blocked by traditional highway walls. ANC -- which "instantly measures traffic sounds and blares out soundwaves whose peaks and troughs cancel out the peaks and troughs of traffic" -- could be more effective than the traditional solution: adding height to the walls. A second technology consists of ducts that produce waves that counteract common traffic wavelengths without the use of electricity.

Calgary, Canada Company Creates Noise Reduction Materials for Industry From Steel Instead of Traditional Concrete (Aug. 20, 1999). The Calgary Herald reports on a Calgary company called ATCO Noise Management Ltd. that helps industry quiet its operations. Their steel-based products are catching on in Europe and elsewhere around the world, where they have developed 25 types of "industrial noise -reduction materials used in the construction of various buildings," and have "virtually corner[ed] the market for "turn-key" companies that do all three aspects of noise reduction -- from engineering to supplying materials, on-site construction and field testing."

Green Valley, Illinois Gas-to-Energy Plant Still Trying to Lower the Noise it Produces to Reduce Neighbors' Irritation (Aug. 20, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a gas-to-energy plant in Greene Valley, Illinois is still trying to reduce its noise levels. Complaints caused the owner to install a series of three mufflers, which have not substantially reduced the noise. Additional studies will be conducted to determine if noise levels could be reduced without additional mufflers or a wholesale redesign of the facility. Additional costs will not be the responsibility of the plant operator since local noise standards are already met.

Georgia Institute of Technology Researcher Develops "Quiet Curtain"; Noise Shielding Material and Fabric Can Reduce Noise By 12 Decibels (Aug. 16, 1999). Design News reports that a Georgia Institute of Technology Researcher has developed a "quiet curtain" that can reduce noise by 12 decibels.

Community Board in New York City Pushes City to Add Audible Crosswalk Signals for Pedestrians: Especially the Visually Impaired (Aug. 15, 1999). The New York Times reports that a community board in New York City is pushing for audible crosswalk signals to increase pedestrian safety. The Department of Transportation worries about noise complaints, but proponents say that automatic volume adjustment, or even silent signals heard only by those with special receivers, can eliminate noise issues.

Lightplane Operators Experience Substantial Noise, and Often Use Active Noise Reduction Earphones (Aug. 15, 1999). Chief Executive reports that many lightplane pilots -- who are subjected to noise from a 250-horsepower engine -- use Active Noise Reduction (ANR) technology to give their ears a break.

New Noise-Reduction System for Airplanes Differs From Past Types (Aug. 9, 1999). Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that Cooper Tire and Rubber Company has developed a new electronic noise reduction system for airplane cockpits and cabins.

U.K. Study Highlights Earlier Hearing Problems, Spurs Safer Sound Campaign in Scotland (Aug. 3, 1999). The Scotsman reports that a Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) study has found that 80% of young people don't worry about their hearing, although half of them have trouble listening to loud music. RNID has started a Safer Sound campaign to encourage people to protect their hearing; the campaign is encouraged by a Norway study which found a 50% reduction in hearing problems after a seven-year public-awareness campaign.

Oklahoma City Transportation Department Approves Noise Wall Where It Was Previously Said to Be Unfeasible; Change Of Heart Reflects New Uses for Road and New Noise-Dampening Materials (Aug. 3, 1999). The Tulsa World reports that the Oklahoma Transportation Commission has approved a 1,300-foot, $250,000 noise wall along a section of Interstate 44. The commission originally considered the wall as part of a 1990 highway contract. "Changes in the operation" of the road, as well as new noise-dampening materials have now made a noise wall possible.

Noisiest Section of Expressway in Massachusetts to Get Noise Walls After Eleven Years (Jul. 31, 1999). The Patriot Ledger reports that a $2 million construction of noise walls along the Expressway in Quincy, Massachusetts is scheduled to begin soon, 11 years after the highway section was rated noisiest in the state. 190,000 vehicles use the section of the Expressway every weekday. The article discusses the structure of the walls in more detail than most articles do.

Northern Kentucky International Airport Near Cincinnati to Test Noise Cancellation Technology (Jul. 31, 1999). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that the Northern Kentucky International Airport near Cincinnati plans to test noise cancellation technology to help reduce airport noise. The new technology picks up sound from a microphone and uses a computer to create a negative copy of it; when the negative sound is played back, it cancels out the original sound. While indoor applications have existed for years, it's never been tested at an airport or in other outside situations. Testing the system indoors and out would cost about $450,000, with funds coming from an existing noise-abatement budget.

Flight Management Systems for Aircraft May Reduce Flight Delays and Noise Footprints by Making Flight Paths More Precise (Jul. 20, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that new Flight Management Systems (FMS), which integrate information from global positioning satellites, instruments, and engines to guide aircraft on more exact routes, may reduce flight delays and noise footprints on the ground. Noise footprints will be reduced since planes will be able to adhere to designated paths that minimize residential overflights. While few planes currently use the technology, 75% of planes made today have FMS installed.

Earth Is Noisy Planet Say Experts (Jul. 8, 1999). The Christian Science Monitor reports that only 50 years ago, most of the Earth's noises were natural ones rather than technological. Today, however, the opposite may be true. According to the report, astronomers claim that radio waves from communications satellites interfere with their radio telescope observations. The article also reports that aquatic animals such as whales and dolphins are at risk because, according to National Geographic Society oceanographer, Sylvia Earle, our arrogance accompanies our technology; we have not studied the impact or consequence our technology has in the air or oceans.

Town Council In UK To Fine Noisy Neighbors (Jul. 8, 1999). According to the Bristol Evening Post, the town council has warned noisy neighbors to keep down the noise or go to court.

UK Groups Say Noise Is Hazardous to Your Health (Jul. 7, 1999). According to the Times Newspapers, you can get sick from an over exposure to noise. Loud music, neighbors that fight, barking dogs and the do-it-yourselfer who uses a hammer and drill too long are all among the most emphatic noise complaints.

UK Noise Advocates Provide Education on National Noise Action Day (Jul. 7, 1999). Complaints about noise are increasing, says the Evening Herald, and the complaints come from people who live near quarreling neighbors, nightclubs and airports, just to name a few.

Scotland City Gets a Noise Complaint a Day (Jul. 7, 1999). The Aberdeen Evening News reports that the Aberdeen City Council launched the third National Noise Action Awareness Day to educate residents about noise and its impact on others.

Phoenix City Council OKs Noise Barriers For Arroyo Springs Residents (Jul. 7, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports that Arroyo Springs residents will finally get relief from the overwhelming noise from cars and trailer trucks passing by on nearby Loop 101.

Illinois Shooting Range Faces County Opposition Over Staying Open (Jul. 7, 1999). According to the Des Moines Register, an indoor shooting range in rural Polk County is in danger of closing because its neighbors and county officials claim the noise is too much. They want it to move to a new location.

Utah City Council Puts Noise Barrier On Voting Ballot (Jul. 7, 1999). According to the Deseret News, residents in Farmington want the town to build noise barriers around Interstate 15, which is soon to be expanded. They were successful in getting over 1,000 signatures to have the issue on the city's Nov. 2 ballot.

Utah Residents Want Noise Barrier on I-15 (Jul. 7, 1999). The Salt Lake Tribune says that residents in Farmington, Utah want the city to build a sound barrier along Interstate 15. They've gathered over 1,000 signatures asking the city to accept state funding for a concrete slab from the Utah Department of Transportation. If the city declines, residents say they have over 25 percent more signatures than they need to get on the ballot at voting time in November.

California Residents Upset Over Gun Range Noise: Current Reduction Measures Not Working (Jul. 6, 1999). According to the Ventura County Star, some residents who live near Grant Park's Gun Range have filed numerous complaints about the noise from 9mm gunshots. And the sound-reduction measures, an earth berm and metal barriers, are required by the city, but aren't effective.

Insulation Before House Is Completed Is Cheaper (Jul. 3, 1999). In a question and answer column in the Times-Picayune, homeowners learn about insulating their houses and the cost of the work.

London Student Designs Electronic "Curtain" that Filters Unwanted Noise From Soothing Frequencies (Jun. 30, 1999). Birmingham Evening Mail reports that a 25-year-old student at London's Royal College of Art has designed a "Smart Curtain" which combats irritating noise. The electronic device reduces sound intensity by up to eight decibels, and filters noise to allow only soothing frequencies to pass. The student received a prize of 2,000 pounds from the British Standards Institution for creating a design which promotes environmental best practice. The inventor notes that "Having control over a noisy environment makes people feel less stressed out and more comfortable."

Lord Corporation Active Noise Technology Can Reduce Aircraft Noise by 95% (Jun. 30, 1999). Flight International reports that NVX Active Noise and Vibration Control Technology, designed by the Lord Corporation, has received approval from the FAA. The system, which has been successfully tested for a year on Air Canada flights, is designed to reduce noise by up to 25 decibels or 95% on DC-9s and MD-80s. The system also reduces vibration on cabin floors and fixtures.

Inventor of New Noise-Filtering "Smart Curtain" Wins 2000 Pound Prize from British Standards Institution (Jun. 29, 1999). The Press Association Newsfile reports that a 25-year-old student at the Royal Art College in London will receive a 2000 pound prize for his invention of the 'smart curtain.' The invention is a translucent rubber curtain, embedded with electronics disguised as a grid pattern, that cuts noise by up to eight decibels; it also transforms irritating noise into pleasant melodies and sounds such as the 'ocean' that you hear when putting a sea shell to your ear. The inventor is now searching for a company to back production of the curtain. The curtain is 2.4 meters by 1.2 meters, but weighs only six kilograms.

New "Noise Curtain" Brings Prize for Inventor, May Revolutionize Noise Reduction Strategies (Jun. 29, 1999). The Evening Standard reports that an industrial designer at London's Royal College of Art will receive a 2,000 pound prize from the British Standards Institution tonight for inventing the "smart curtain." The curtain is a rubber sheet embedded with electronics which reduces noise up to eight decibels, and transforms annoying noise into soothing sounds. 173,000 complaints were received by the Chartered Institute for Environmental Health Officers in 1997, and so such an invention could have a major impact on quality of life in London and elsewhere.

Hospital Curtains Developed at Georgia Institute of Technology that Can Reduce Noise By Up to 12 Decibels (Jun. 26, 1999). The Vancouver Sun reports that researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology announced that they have developed hospital curtains which can reduce noise by seven to twelve decibels by placing fabric around sheets of noise-blocking material.

Raytheon Aircraft Co. Shows Wares at Paris Airshow, Including Beech 1900D with a Quiet-Cabin Feature (Jun. 15, 1999). A press release from the M2Presswire Company details the Raytheon Aircraft Company's new showings at the Paris Airshow, including a Beech 1900D model with a quieter cabin.

NASA Predicts Aviation Advances, Including Less Noise, if Program Is Better-Funded (Jun. 14, 1999). Aviation Week and Space Technology reports NASA predicts great improvements in aviation design in the next two decades, but only if program funding increases substantially.

Noise Greatest Cause of Hearing Loss in Aging Baby Boomers (Jun. 14, 1999). The Palm Beach Post reports President Clinton's noise-related hearing loss has prompted other baby boomers to seek treatment for their own noise-related hearing problems.

British Professor Says Owls' Wing Feathers Are Key to Quiet Flight; Suggests Airplane Engineers Take Note (Jun. 13, 1999). The Ottowa Citizen reports a British professor says the key to owls'quiet flight is in their wing feathers and may offer suggestions to airplane engineers.

Firearm Silencers Explained (Jun. 12, 1999). New Scientist reports that firearm silencers work very differently from the way they are portrayed in movies. Noise from a firearm discharge comes from hot gas expanding rapidly behind the bullet, and from the bullet breaking the sound barrier. Silencers slow the expansion of the gas in several ways: providing an expansion chamber for the gas, breaking up the column of gas with baffles, dissipating and cooling the gas with wire mesh or liquid that acts as a heat sink, or slowing the bullet to sub-sonic speed.

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. (May 31, 1999). 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 (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.

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. (May 30, 1999). 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 (May 30, 1999). 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.

Group Says Jet Skis Cause Great Harm to Air, Waterways (May 29, 1999). The Boston Globe reports that a Maryland conservation group and personal watercraft industry officials are clashing over pollution concerns caused by jet skis.

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. (May 28, 1999). 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 (May 28, 1999). 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.

California and the federal government will pay residents in Burbank, California who live under Burbank Airport flight paths to noise-proof their homes (May 27, 1999). 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.

Noise Control for Mines Criticized by Republican Senator (May 27, 1999). 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.

Airplanes' Noise Affects Quality of Life in Vero Beach, Florida (May 26, 1999). 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 (May 26, 1999). 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 (May 26, 1999). 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 (May 26, 1999). 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 (May 26, 1999). 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 (May 26, 1999). 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 (May 26, 1999). 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.

Peoria, Arizona Councilwoman's Proposed Noise Wall Fronts Her Own House, Creating Conflict of Interest (May 26, 1999). 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.

Burbank, California's Airport Reworks Expansion Proposal, Reducing Terminal Size and Gate Count (May 25, 1999). 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."

Queens Representative Hails Increase of Federal Funds for Reducing Airplane Noise (May 25, 1999). 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 (May 25, 1999). 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.

Farmington, Utah's City Council Stance Against Unattractive Noise Walls on I-15 Less Certain After Residents Push for the Structures (May 23, 1999). 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.

Noise: Nuisance Or Health Hazard? (May 23, 1999). The New York Times printed the following letter to the Editor arguing that noise is a pollutant and not just a nuisance.

Noise From YMCA's Skateboard Park in North Attleboro, Rhode Island Bothers Neighbors (May 21, 1999). 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.

Residents in Plainview, New York Who Wanted a Noise Wall for the Highway in 1992 Now Oppose It As Too Close to Their Homes (May 16, 1999). 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.

Chicago O'Hare Joins Airport Council International in Encouraging the FAA to Phase Out Older Planes, Allowing Much Quieter New Planes to Take Over (May 13, 1999). 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.

West Boca, Florida Residents Oppose 16-foot Noise Wall on U.S. 441, Asking For Shorter Wall Atop Existing Berm (May 6, 1999). 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.

Street Sweeper In Brisbane, Australia Adjusts Truck and Dramatically Lowers Noise Intensity (May 5, 1999). 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.

Chicago's O'Hare Airport Noise Compatibility Commission Requests Study of How Precisely Airlines Adhere to Prescribed Flight Paths that Reduce Residential Noise Impacts (Apr. 28, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Noise Compatibility Commission of Chicago's O'Hare Airport asked airlines to determine how well their pilots adhere to prescribed "fly quiet" paths between 10 PM and 7 AM. The flight paths are determined to avoid most residential areas and reduce subsequent noise impacts, but "strong wind, erring compasses, and pilot or air-traffic control decisions" can cause deviations.

Chicago's O'Hare Airport to Expand Use of Flight Management Systems Technology That Allows Planes to Follow Flight Paths More Tightly, Reducing Noise Impact Areas (Apr. 28, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that O'Hare Airport plans to begin using Flight Management Systems (FMS) after two months of successful testing showed that they are effective. FMS relies on electronic navigation to guide planes more tightly along designated flight paths; currently, pilots rely on compass readings from the control tower and can not completely compensate for factors such as wind. Following tighter flight paths would mean reducing the residential areas that are impacted by noise from aircraft.

Boca Raton, Florida Citizens Split Over Proposed Sound Walls Along State Highway (Apr. 27, 1999). The Sun-Sentinel reports that Boca Raton, Florida residents are divided over the proposed sound walls scheduled to be built along U.S. 441. Many residents are concerned that the walls will ruin aesthetics, decrease property values and increase vandalism.

New Monitoring System for St. Louis, Missouri's Lambert Field Airport Will Produce More Specific Information About Noise Impacts from Aircraft (Apr. 26, 1999). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that 20 new noise-monitoring devices spread throughout communities surrounding St. Louis, Missouri's Lambert Field Airport will show airport officials the details of airport noise impacts. The devices determine day-night level decibels (DNLs), and will also include "aircraft types, flight times and altitude related to noise levels." The FAA's Regulation Part 150 sets noise mitigation guidelines that include the use of monitoring devices. Airport officials also hope that the increasingly-used, quieter Stage 3 aircraft will help reduce noise as well.

Residents of Madison's East Side Get Sound Barriers To Quiet Noise From Expanded Interstate 90 (Apr. 20, 1999). Wisconsin State Journal reports that Madison, Wisconsin residents have received $3.7 million worth of sound barriers complements of the state government in order to quiet the noise arising from expansion of Interstate 90-94.

Chicago Suburbs Struggle to Fairly Allocate O'Hare Soundproofing Money (Apr. 18, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports trustees in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, have approved a plan to select houses for soundproofing this year although it doesn't please everyone.

Noise Expert Calls Plans for Illinois Power Plant 'Fatally Flawed' (Apr. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports a noise expert testified Friday that an electrical generating plant near Woodstock, Illinois, may create enough noise to be considered a nuisance for neighbors.

Texas Residents Feel Betrayed by Reduction of Sound Wall (Apr. 17, 1999). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports the Texas Department of Transportation's decision this week to reduce a sound barrier wall between Trophy Club and the Texas 114 bypass by 420 feet is a betrayal of an agreement reached 10 years ago, residents and officials said yesterday.

Compromise Proposed over Noisy Fans at Wisconsin School (Apr. 16, 1999). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports a plan that should reduce the noise from rooftop ventilating units at the high school was endorsed Thursday by the West Bend, Wisconsin, school board.

Letter: Singapore Citizens Urged to Reduce Noise Pollution (Apr. 16, 1999). The Straits Times (Singapore) published a letter from Ralph A. Lewin of California, USA, urging the citizens of Singapore to reduce noise pollution. Lewin writes:

US May Ban Concorde Landings in Retaliation for EU Hush Kit Restrictions (Apr. 16, 1999). The Financial Times reports the United States plans to ban landings of the Concorde airliner in the US if the European Commission restricts hush-kited aircraft in Europe.

U.S. Offers to Negotiate with EU to Avert Hush Kit Ban (Apr. 16, 1999). Reuters reports the United States said yesterday it had proposed a multilateral solution to prevent a retaliatory trade war over European Union plans to ban aircraft fitted with noise mufflers known as hush kits.

English Court of Appeals Upholds EPA Noise Nuisance Notice Regarding Barking Dogs (Apr. 14, 1999). The Times Newspapers Limited reports a Court of Appeal on March 3 in Colchester, England, upheld the serving of a noise nuisance notice established by the 1990 Environmental Protection Act.

Committee Urges Tests of Noise Controls Before Proceeding with Redevelopment Plan for Missouri, Housing Complex (Apr. 12, 1999). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports noise is a concern of a committee overseeing expansion of a housing complex in St. Louis, Missouri.

Neighbors Disagree over Sound Walls along Florida's U. S. 441 (Apr. 12, 1999). Tthe Sun-Sentinel reports not all residents are in favor of sound walls along U.S. 441 that cuts through Boca Raton, Florida, despite the planned expansion of the road from two to six lanes.

ADOT Will Retest Noise Through Gap in Sound Wall near Mesa when Freeway Completed (Apr. 10, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports the Arizona Department of Transportation has decided to "wait and see" about a section of sound wall Mesa residents insist is needed to muffle noise from the Price Freeway.

Noise Barrier at Rifle Range in N. Warwickshire, England, Welcomed by Environmentalists (Apr. 10, 1999). The Birmingham Post reports the Defense Estates Organization has requested approval to build a sound wall at a rifle range near a nature conservation area in North Warwickshire, England.

Entire Kentucky Town Relocated in Unique Airport Noise Buyout (Apr. 9, 1999). The New York Times reports a Kentucky town near the Louisville International Airport agreed to an airport buy-out only if the entire town could be moved together. FAA officials consented to the request, the first of its kind in the United States.

Entire Kentucky Town Relocates to Escape Airport Noise (Apr. 9, 1999). The New York Times reports in the wake of a relocation effort by the Louisville International Airport, a Kentucky town has made a demand so unusual that that Federal Aviation Administration officials now say it could be a model for other communities.

Contractors Educated on Installing Noise Insulation for Homes Near Indianapolis International Airport (Apr. 9, 1999). The Indianapolis Star reports work will begin soon to insulate hundreds of Hendricks County homes from the noise of jets from Indianapolis International Airport.

Raligh, NC, Adopts Noise Ordinance to Govern Amplified Music (Apr. 7, 1999). The News and Observer reports the Raleigh, North Carolina, City Council approved a new noise ordinance Tuesday that will govern business where amplified music is played.

RI Residents Question Justice of Proposed New Flight Tracks at T.F. Green Airport (Apr. 6, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports some Rhode Island residents who will likely hear more noise if proposed new flight paths become a realty at Warwick's T.F. Green Airport questioned last night the justice of such noise distribution.

Queens Residents Vehemently Object to More Flights at New York Airports (Apr. 4, 1999). The New York Times reports New York residents have a hard time believing "The skies will be getting quieter" as the Federal Government considers eliminating flight caps at La Guardia and JFK Airports.

Friends of the Earth Supports EU Directive to Ban Noisy Aircraft in Europe (Apr. 2, 1999). According to the European Report, two non -governmental organizations have criticized the European Union for giving in to pressure from the United States to delay a ban on older and louder "hushkitted" aircraft in European skies.

Lawmakers Unite to Impose Noise Restrictions, Including a Curfew, at Teterboro Airport (Apr. 2, 1999). The Record reports federal and state lawmakers are urging the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to impose curfews at Teterboro Airport and force other restrictions on jet traffic to improve living conditions for neighboring residents.

New Grant Will Soundproof More Homes Affected by Noise from Burbank Airport (Apr. 2, 1999). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports a new grant of federal funds will provide sound insulation for more homes affected by noise from the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport.

RI Residents Invited to Comment on Plans to Limit Noise from T.F. Green Airport (Apr. 2, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports on Monday, residents of Cranston and Warwick, Rhode Island, will have a final opportunity to comment on a list of noise controls proposed for T.F. Green Airport, including significant changes in the flight paths over the city.

Advisory Board in Mass. Works to Protect Community from Power Plant Noise (Apr. 1, 1999). The Patriot Ledger reports Weymouth, Massachusetts, town officials are carefully considering noise and other pollution concerns at a proposed power plant.

EU Delays Hushkit Ban for One Month, Will Consult with US (Mar. 30, 1999). The New York Times reports the European Union today delayed for a month a law on aircraft noise that that has given rise to fears of a trade dispute with the United States.

EU Delays Vote to Ban Hushkitted Planes to Allow US to Propose Compromise (Mar. 30, 1999). The Hartford Courant reports the European Union's transport ministers have postponed a vote on the ban of older aircraft, giving U.S. officials more time to work with European Union executives on a compromise.

LI Residents Complain about Noise, Fumes, Lights from New Rail Road Yard (Mar. 28, 1999). Newsday reports neighbors of a new Long Island Rail Road yard in Port Jefferson Station, New York, are complaining of noise, fumes, and lights.

Residents Seek Monetary Damages from Arizona Town, Claiming Lack of Airport Use Disclosure (Mar. 27, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports a group of residents is seeking monetary damages from the town of Gilbert, Arizona, for failing to enforce its own rules about airport disclosure.

Seattle Nightclub Owners Face Stricter Noise Ordinances (Mar. 27, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports proposals to reinforce noise regulations for nightclubs in Seattle neighborhoods are not sitting well with a number of club owners.

Indiana Residents Along 146th Seek Solutions to Noise from Four Lanes (Mar. 25, 1999). The Indianapolis News reports Indiana residents who live along 146 Street are concerned with finding a way to minimize traffic noise when the new four-lane route is complete.

Port of Seattle "Puts Kids First" and Funds Jet Noise Study at Highline Schools (Mar. 24, 1999). The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports the Port of Seattle yesterday agreed to fund the noise study for Highline School District whose schools are seriously affected by noise from nearby Seattle-Tacoma International Airport

Virginia Beach Amphitheater Too Loud for Neighbors (Mar. 23, 1999). The Virginian-Pilot reports for the second time in as many years, GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater officials have agreed to turn down the volume of summer concerts, but nearby residents say noise from the venue is still too loud.

Inglewood, California, Burdened with Jet Noise from Los Angeles International Airport (Mar. 22, 1999). City News Service reports Inglewood, California, officials say their town in unfairly burdened with overflights from Los Angeles International Airport.

Some Neighbors of Nashville International Airport Wait a Decade for Noise Insulation (Mar. 22, 1999). The Tennessean reports while the majority of houses in the noise contour map for Kentucky's Nashville International Airport have been soundproofed, some residents are still waiting on a list began in 1992.

Residents Predict More Noise and Isolation with Florida I-4 Expansion (Mar. 21, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports while the effort to rebuild Florida's Interstate 4 focuses on alleviating rush-hour traffic, residents along the highway fear increased noise, and isolation created by sound barriers.

US Transportation Secretary Headed to Europe to Tackle Airplane Noise Dispute with EU (Mar. 20, 1999). Agence France Presse reports the US Transportation Secretary will travel to Europe to tackle a US-European dispute over airplane noise.

Public Summit Held on Proposed New Terminal for California's Burbank Airport; No Agreements Reached on Long-Running Noise Issues (Mar. 19, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports participants at a recent forum on a new terminal at California's Burbank Airport could not agree on whether to seek local or federal solutions to long-standing noise, safety, and regulation issues.

Mississippi Homeowners Renew Request for Berm to Muffle Airport Noise (Mar. 17, 1999). The Commercial Appeal reports a Mississippi homeowners association has renewed its plea for trees and berms to mitigate noise from the Memphis International Airport.

Islip, NY, Residents Demand Night-Time Curfew at MacArthur Airport (Mar. 14, 1999). Newsday reports residents of Islip, New York, are protesting late-night flights at MacArthur Airport and asking for a night-time flight curfew.

To Wall or Not to Wall? That is the Question in Salt Lake Valley, Utah, as Noise Walls are Vehemently Opposed by Some, Praised by Others (Mar. 14, 1999). The Salt Lake Tribune reports noise walls are a contentious issue in Salt Lake Valley, Utah. Some residents applaud their effectiveness against freeway noise while others decry their unsightliness.

NJ Lawmakers Advocate for Quieter Skies in Aviation Spending Bill (Mar. 11, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports New Jersey lawmakers took some action Thursday toward making the skies quieter.

Illinois Residents' Noise Fears about Power Plant Not Quieted by Noise Experts (Mar. 11, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports despite noise experts testifying to the contrary, residents of Woodstock, Illinois, are opposed to a proposed power plant because they believe it will bring noise and air pollution and generally lower the quality of life in their region.

Environment Committee at Montreal International Airport(Dorval) Analyzes Noise Complaints (Mar. 11, 1999). The Gazette reports new procedures to reduce noise at Montreal International Airport (Dorval) have been in effect for one month, but it's too soon to judge their effectiveness.

Bowing to US Pressure, EU Agrees to Postpone Ban of Hush-Kitted Planes (Mar. 11, 1999). EIU ViewsWire reports the European Union has given in to intense pressure from Washington, DC, and delayed a decision on plans to outlaw new aircraft equipped with 'hush kits.'

Ohio Residents Along I-480 Seek New Noise Tests and Sound Barriers (Mar. 9, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports in the wake of increased noise complaints from residents, the Ohio Department of Transportation will conduct a new noise study to determine if a section of Interstate 480 warrants sound barriers.

More Trains Mean More Noise in Winter Park, Colorado (Mar. 8, 1999). The Rocky Mountain News published an editorial saying springtime in Winter Park, Colorado, may bring in a wave of noise complaints as residents open their windows to warm, fresh air and the continuous blaring of train whistles.

Airlines Flying in Australia May Face Stiffer Fines for Violating Curfews and Breaching Safety Rules (Mar. 7, 1999). AAP Newsfeed reports airlines breaching Sydney Airport's noise curfew could face bigger fines under a review of airport regulations, federal Transport Minister John Anderson announced today.

Chicago Targets Homes to Soundproof Against Noise from O'Hare; Activists Question Accuracy of Noise Maps (Mar. 6, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports Chicago announced its annual soundproofing plan to insulate homes against noise from jets at O'Hare International Airport, officials announced Friday. Meanwhile, activists question the accuracy of noise contour maps used to determine the allocation of soundproofing funds.

Chicago Updates Soundproofing Plan to Include More Homes Affected by Noise from O'Hare (Mar. 6, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports the city of Chicago has updated its soundproofing plan to include homes located just west of O'Hare International Airport previously considered ineligible. Chicago will now soundproof homes in eight communities surrounding the airport.

Ohio Citizens Want Solutions to Cargo Plane Noise (Mar. 5, 1999). The Dayton Daily News reports residents of Centerville-Washington Townships, Ohio, told FAA officials they want relief from night-time cargo plane noise.

Cleveland Homes Near Hopkins Airport Grandfathered to Get Noise Insulation Despite New Eligibility Rules (Mar. 4, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports Cleveland homes on perimeter of a new airport noise zone will receive sound insulation through grandfathering.

Florida Residents Frustrated by Noise; City Council Says it's Powerless to Intervene (Mar. 4, 1999). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports Punta Gorda, Florida, residents who say they're disturbed by music from Fishermen's Village, a complex of bars, restaurants and shops, aren't getting any help from their city council.

Illinois Residents Petition Governor for Noise Wall along Tollway (Mar. 4, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports a group of Bannockburn, Illinois, residents will petition the Governor for a noise wall to block traffic noise from the Tri-State Tollway.

US Finds EU Aircraft Ban Proposal Unacceptable; Threatens Retaliatory Ban (Mar. 4, 1999). USA Today reports the United States threatened the European Union with a retaliatory aircraft ban if Europe follows through with prohibiting some US aircraft from Europe's skies.

An Eye for an Eye: US and EU Trade Aircraft Ban Threats, Citing Noise and Air Pollution (Mar. 3, 1999). AP Online reports the United States House of Representative is considering a bill that could ban the Concorde from American skies if the European Union follows through with its plans to prohibit hush-kitted US planes from flying over Europe.

Study Shows Fewer Noise Disturbed Residents if Pilots Use Shorter Runway at Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport (Mar. 3, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the final draft of Rhode Island's Airport Corporation's Part 51 noise study on T.F. Green Airport in Warwick arrived this week, giving residents a month to study it before a public hearing set for March 31.

US Official Sees New EU Aircraft Standards as Attempt to Control Market (Mar. 3, 1999). The Journal of Commerce reports at least one United States commerce official sees new European Union aircraft standards as a way to control the aircraft market.

EU May Postpone New Hush-Kit Rules that Would Ban Most US Aircraft from European Skies (Mar. 2, 1999). The Journal of Commerce reports Undersecretary of State of Economics, Business and Agricultural Affairs Stuart Eizenstat said in Brussels Friday there were signs that European governments would postpone new rules that would ban some US aircraft from their airspace.

Speedway Builder Threatens to Pull Out of Western NC When Third County Imposes Racetrack Moratorium over Noise and Traffic (Mar. 2, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports a 90-day racetrack moratorium in Haywood County may end plans for a new speedway in Western North Carolina.

Residents Bothered by Noise from Wisconsin Sports Center Dissatisfied with DNR Report (Mar. 1, 1999). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources has developed a long-range plan for improving the McMiller Sports Center, including seeking ways to reduce gunfire noise, but nearby residents say more focus should have been placed on mitigating noise.

Arizona Residents Vindicated with New Noise Readings; ADOT Agrees to Build Highway Sound Wall (Feb. 26, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports after re-conducting sound tests, the DOT ruled that Arizona residents in the Ahwatukee Foothills will get a sound wall to mitigate noise from Warner Road.

Burbank Attacks Credibility of Airport, Citing Noise Violations of Aircraft; Politicians Enter Fray Before November Elections (Feb. 26, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports the city of Burbank, California, claims the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport frequently violates the nighttime noise ban by flying older, Stage 2 aircraft.

Burbank Points to Stage 2 Violations, Says Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Not Interested in Controlling Noise (Feb. 26, 1999). City News Service reports the city of Burbank, California, accused the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority today of "massive violations" of noise regulations over the last three years, a charge the airport vigorously denied.

Illinois Residents Challenge Traffic Noise Standards to Get Noise Barrier Built along Tollway (Feb. 26, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports the town of Bannockburn, Illinois, has challenged the state highway authority over noise standards in an effort to get a sound wall built between the community and the highway.

Illinois Town Fears Politics will Result in Loss of Soundproofing Money to Mitigate Noise from O'Hare (Feb. 25, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports the town Bensenville, Illinois, believes it will lose soundproofing funds to mitigate noise from O'Hare International Airport due to political maneuvering.

U.S. May Retaliate with Concorde Ban if EU Enacts Ban on Hush-Kitted Aircraft (Feb. 25, 1999). The Financial Times reports the U.S. is considering a ban of its own if the European Union goes forward with a ban on older hush-kitted aircraft.

Illinois Town May Get Noise Wall after New Readings Show Elevated Noise Levels (Feb. 24, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports Ahwatukee Foothills residents who live near Interstate 10 in Arizona may be getting a new noise wall after citizens complained and one DOT worker recorded new noise level readings.

DC Residents Angry about Sen. McCain's Effort to Increase Flights at Reagan National Airport (Feb. 22, 1999). The Christian Science Monitor reports Arizona Senator John McCain(R) is proposing to increase the number of flights in and out of Reagan National Airport and to lift the 1,250-mile limit on outbound aircraft from the Washington DC airport.

US Calls EU Rule Against Hush-Kitted Planes Discriminatory (Feb. 22, 1999). The Journal of Commerce reports the Undersecretary of Commerce, David Aaron, called the European Union's plan to prohibit hush-kitted planes in European skies pointless and biased.

Mass. Communities Disagree on Logan Airport Expansion; Community Advisory Group Challenges Massport on Tactics, Disclosure, and Equity (Feb. 21, 1999). The Boston Globe reports critics ask tough questions of Massport's plans to new runway at Logan Airport. Residents on the Community Advisory Committee, who represent towns affected by Logan, want answers about airport capacity, long-range planning, equity, and value of residents' quality of life.

Promoters of Minn. Amphitheater Look to Other Venues for Tips on How to be a Good Neighbor (Feb. 21, 1999). The Star Tribune reports in its bid to build an amphitheater, the Minnesota Orchestra has studied similar amphitheaters for ways to be a harmonious neighbor while achieving financial and artistic success. Topics included noise control and community relations.

Resident in Van Nuys Airport Flightpath Proposes Noise Relief Plan (Feb. 21, 1999). The Los Angeles Times published a letter from Charles Mark-Walker, a resident of North Hills, California. Mr. Walker suggests a noise relief plan for nearby residents of the Van Nuys Airport. Walker writes:

Action Group Formed to Address Noise from Bars in Wellington, England (Feb. 20, 1999). The Evening Post (Wellington) reports tensions are mounting between inner-city residents and bar owners over complaints about loud music in Wellington, England.

Citizens' Group Takes on Noise in Albuquerque (Feb. 18, 1999). The Albuquerque Journal reports a citizens' group is working to update Albuquerque's noise laws.

Complaints of Boca Airport Noise Intensify (Feb. 18, 1999). The Sun-Sentinel reports residents' complaints about noise from jets flying to and from Florida's Boca Raton Airport are getting louder.

Illinois Village Fights for Sound Wall to Muffle Tollway Noise (Feb. 18, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports the village of Bannockburn, Illinois, has launched a campaign to block tollway noise from the community.

Opponents of El Toro Airport in Calif. Fear Noise in "Quiet Zones" (Feb. 18, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports most noise complaints generated by John Wayne Airport in California last year came from areas miles away, in neighborhoods deemed "quiet" by the county. With much more air traffic planned at the proposed airport at El Toro, South Orange County residents fear there will no quiet zones for them.

US Charges European Union Ruling on Hush-Kitted Aircraft "Discriminatory" (Feb. 18, 1999). Agence France Presse reports the United States on Thursday condemned a recent move by the European Parliament to ban hush-kitted jet aircraft in the European Union.

US Could Outlaw Concorde if EU Proceeds with Ban on Hush-Kitted Planes (Feb. 18, 1999). The Commercial Appeal reports flights to the United States by the Concorde may be prohibited if the European Union follows through with its ban on jets that use hushkits to reduce noise.

Chicago Area Schools Compete for Slim Soundproofing Funds as O'Hare Considers Building More Terminals (Feb. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports as Chicago officials consider building more terminals at O'Hare International Airport, 15 nearby schools are competing to be one of the four chosen this year to be insulated against jet noise.

Study Shows Noise from New Texas Airport will Affect 1,500 Residents (Feb. 17, 1999). The Austin American-Statesman reports an updated study on noise around a new airport in Southeast Austin, Texas, shows an increase in the number of residents who will be affected by noise from aircraft taking off and landing.

Leaders in Air Industry Disagree about Impact of New Noise Regulations (Feb. 16, 1999). The Journal of Commerce reports tougher noise regulations possibly grounding a number of large aircraft was the topic of discussion at a transportation and aerospace conference in Naples, Florida, last week.

Rhode Island Town Seeks Enforceable and Reasonable Noise Ordinance (Feb. 15, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the town of Westerly, Rhode Island, is updating its noise ordinance to make it easier to enforce.

Mass. Moves Forward with Logan Runway Project Despite Objections from South Shore Residents (Feb. 12, 1999). The Patriot Ledger reports the new runway project at Boston's Logan Airport is being touted by the state as an economic boon while residents of at least one South Shore town predict increased noise pollution will be their lot.

Residents in Boca Raton, Florida, Object to Industrial-Like Sound Walls (Feb. 12, 1999). The Palm Beach Post reports residents along Florida's State Road 7 object to the aesthetics of federally mandated sound walls that will soon enclose their communities.

Snowmobile Debate in US Parks Goes National with Petition from Green Groups (Feb. 12, 1999). USA Today reports a coalition of environmental groups in the United Sates is calling for the ban of recreational snowmobiles in national parks, setting off a contentious debate covering issues from noise and pollution to local economies and civil rights.

US Rep. Appeals for More Aid for Airport Noise Victims in Tennessee (Feb. 11, 1999). The Commercial Appeal reports Rep. Harold Ford Jr. (D-Tenn.) said Wednesday he hopes to re-open the issue of how much to pay noise-suffering residents near Memphis International Airport by increasing federal aid for noise mitigation.

US Senate Will Regulate Air Tour Noise in National Parks (Feb. 11, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation today approved steps to address noise generated by airplane and helicopter tours over national parks.

EU Refuses to Delay Hush-Kitted Aircraft Restrictions Despite U.S. Plea (Feb. 11, 1999). The Financial Times reports the European Union's transport commissioner yesterday rejected US attempts to delay EU legislation that would restrict the use of older, noisier aircraft in EU airspace.

Sound Specialist Tells Calif. Residents Noise from Sound and Gravel Company Can be Mitigated (Feb. 11, 1999). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports residents of Serra Mesa, California, learned from an acoustical engineer that noise from a nearby sand and gravel pit can be muffled at the source to allow them to sleep at night.

Residents Question Noise Reduction Plan at Anchorage Airport in the Face of Continued Growth (Feb. 9, 1999). The Anchorage Daily News reports communities near the Anchorage International Airport say they're pleased that airport officials are addressing noise; nevertheless, some residents are skeptical the proposed measures will help.

Florida Residents Bemoan Highway Noise and DOT's Refusal to Build Sound Wall (Feb. 9, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports noise and the loss of trees and property are the primary concerns of residents from Longwood, Florida, who live along busy Interstate 4.

Arlington Hts. Trustees Request Residents' Noise Complaints about O'Hare Airport (Feb. 9, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports village trustees in Arlington Heights, Illinois, asked residents to voice their concerns over aircraft noise and pressure state legislators about quality-of-life issues.

Editiorial: Japan Government Should Adhere to Current Noise Standards (Feb. 8, 1999). Asahi News Service published an editorial by Asahi Shimbun that says with traffic noise pollution in Japan shows no signs of abating, the government should not ease noise standards.

Missouri Residents Want Noise Relief from Traffic but Disagree on Sound Wall (Feb. 8, 1999). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports residents disagree about a sound wall the Missouri Department of Transportation is building between the highway and their neighborhood.

Texas Town to Test Alternative to Blaring Train Whistles (Feb. 7, 1999). The Dallas Morning News reports the city of Richardson, Texas, will test an alternative to train whistles which frequently disturb residents at night..

Environmentalists Want Snowmobiles Out of U.S. National Parks (Feb. 7, 1999). The New York Times reports a coalition of environmental groups in the United States wants to ban snowmobiles from the 28 National Parks that allow them. Noise, air pollution and safety are environmentalists' chief concerns.

State's Attorney's Office Joins School in Suit Against Chicago for Funds to Muffle Noise from O'Hare Airport (Feb. 7, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports the DuPage County state's attorney's office has stepped into the legal battle between the city of Chicago and a private school system which sued for funds to soundproof the schools against noise from O'Hare International Airport.

The Politics of Noise vs. Economics at O'Hare International Airport; Editorial Praises Mayor Daley's Expansion Plan (Feb. 6, 1999). The Chicago Tribune published an editorial praising Chicago Mayor Richard Daley's expansion plans for O'Hare International Airport.

NJ Lawmaker Takes New Approach to Reduce Jet Noise at Teterboro Airport (Feb. 4, 1999). The Record reports a New Jersey lawmaker has introduced a bill to reduce jet noise at the Teterboro Airport.

Third Noise Study Rejects Noise Barriers for NJ Town (Feb. 3, 1999). The Courier-Journal reports a third noise study of the Westport Road area where a Watterson Expressway interchange is planned in St. Matthews, Kentucky, has again concluded that concrete noise barriers are not warranted - despite residents' pleas.

Calif. Residents Threaten to Block New Cal State Stadium, Citing Noise and Traffic (Nov. 24, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports neighbors are vehemently opposed to a new football stadium at the North Campus of Cal State Northridge. Fearing noise, traffic, and a general deterioration of their neighborhoods, residents are circulating a petition and threatening to take the issue to court.

Noise Won't Fly as Reason for SFO Runways over Salt Bay (Nov. 24, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports San Francisco International Airport officials outlined a plan yesterday to build new runways over the bay. Environmentalists are skeptical.

Firm Designs Quiet Office Next to O'Hare Airport (Nov. 23, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports a manufacturer of ceilings and walls has made its Chicago training center into a "shrine of soundproofing" in office park next to O'Hare International Airport.

Editorial: Minn. Politics and Bureaucracy Nix Citizens' Chance in Fighting New Runway at Metropolitan Airport (Nov. 22, 1998). The Star Tribune published an editorial contending a Richfield, Illinois, couple who fought runway noise at the Metropolitan Airport, and lost, learned a bitter civics lesson involving the mixing of politics and bureaucracy.

Eightteen Years Later, Lawsuits Settled over Noise at Greater Pittsburgh International Airport. (Nov. 22, 1998). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, last week settled a number of 18-year-old noise lawsuits involving the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport.

Illinois Town Considers Racetrack; Farmers Concerned about Noise and Drainage from Track (Nov. 22, 1998). The Pantagraph reports many residents support a new racetrack in Maroa, Illinois, despite some concerns expressed by area farmers about impending noise pollution and drainage from the facility.

Studio City, CA, Resident Criticizes Burbank Airport Authority for Neglecting Noise Mitigation (Nov. 22, 1998). The Los Angeles Times published the following Letter to Editor from a resident who is critical of Burbank Airport Authority for he sees is a lack of effort to mitigate the airport's noise impact on nearby residents. The letter from Studio City, California, resident Martin Briner reads as follows:

Florida Limits Homes Near Highways; Fears Losing Federal Money for Sound Walls (Nov. 21, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports a federal policy limiting home construction near highways is threatening to stop a controversial housing project west of Boynton Beach, Florida.

Homeowners Near Indianapolis International Airport to Get Noise Assistance (Nov. 21, 1998). The Indianapolis News reports the Federal Aviation Administration has approved a new plan to reduce the impact of airplane noise from Indianapolis International Airport on homeowners in Plainfield, Indiana.

Fresno, CA, Airport to Replace Hay-Bale Hush House; Metal Muffles Airplane Engine Noise More Effectively (Nov. 20, 1998). The Fresno Bee reports plans are underway to construct a new, more effective "hush house" at California's Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

Chicago Botanic Garden Proposes to Build Eye-Pleasing Noise Wall (Nov. 19, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports the Chicago Botanic Garden is working on a proposal to build an innovative sound barrier to muffle nearby highway traffic noise.

Georgia Town to Send Officials to Airport Noise Symposium (Nov. 19, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports concerned about airport noise and expansion, members of the College Park City Council will return to Sand Diego in February for the 1999 Airport Noise Symposium.

Noise Abatement Manager for California's Camarillo and Oxnard Airports (Nov. 19, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports California's Ventura County's Department of Airports is considering creating a position to deal with noise complaints from residents living near the Camarillo and Oxnard airports.

Penn. Residents and Cement Company Negotiate Design of Conveyor to Address Noise and Dust (Nov. 19, 1998). The Morning Call reports a residents' advisory committee to ESSROC Cement Corp discussed on Wednesday noise concerns about the Nazareth, Pennsylvania, manufacturer's proposed 1.7-mile conveyor.

Ventura, Calif. Residents Protest Firing Range Noise; Police Officers Say Facility is Necessary (Nov. 19, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports residents of Ventura, California, want to close nearby firing range because of incessant noise, but county law enforcement agencies say range provides vital service.

Wisconsin Town Seeks Highway Noise Barriers to Protect Schools (Nov. 19, 1998). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports officials in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, have requested highway noise barriers to protect outdoor school activities from freeway noise.

City of Burbank, Calif. Wins Latest Court Suit over Noise and Expansion at Burbank Airport (Nov. 18, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports Burbank officials won a round in California Appeal's Court in their attempt to strike a noise deal with Burbank Airport.

Noise Group Lists Goals in Fighting Noise from Chicago's O'Hare Airport (Nov. 18, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports an advisory committee in Arlington Heights, Illinois, is ready to present their new strategic plan to fight noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Airports Commission Accuses Richfield of Using Insignificant Data to Halt New Runway at Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (Nov. 17, 1998). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports the Metropolitan Airports Commission says the city of Richfield has been citing an insignificant noise study to try to stop plans for a new runway at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

British Government Deems Nighttime Flying Ban Impractical at Country's Busiest Airports (Nov. 17, 1998). Press Association Newsfile reports the British Government today declined to ban night-time flying at Britain's two busiest airports, but continue to consider proposals to reduce noise levels at Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

Mass. Resident Says Noise Escalating from Local Gun Club (Nov. 17, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports a Pembroke, Massachusetts, resident says the noise is escalating from a gun club on her street.

Study Finds Noise Levels within Law at Conn. Crematory; Residents Continue to Object to Noise (Nov. 17, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports results of a noise study conducted at an Enfield, Connecticut, crematory did not solve a dispute between the funeral home and its neighbors.

Citizens' Group Sues Navy Over Jets at Virginia Beach Air Station; Uncovered Naval Report Predicts High Noise Costs to Homes, Schools (Nov. 16, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports a lawsuit filed against relocation of Navy Jets to an Air Force Base in Virginia Beach uncovered an unreleased Naval report estimating the high costs of noise-proofing local homes and schools.

Missouri County Allows Expanded Quarrying Operations Despite Residents' Objections to Increased Noise and Decreased Property Values (Nov. 16, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Warren County, Missouri, Commission overturned a recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission Friday and voted to allow a company to expand its quarrying operation. Nearby residents object to the expansion saying it will bring increased noise and decreased property values.

Virginia Beach to Study Noise Mitigation Measures for Schools after Luring Noisy Navy Jets to Area (Nov. 16, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports in the wake of the Navy moving 10 F/A-18 squadrons to Virginia Beach, Virginia, city officials will fund a noise-mitigation study for schools in the high-noise zone.

Officials of Richfield, MN, and MAC Disagree Over Significance of Previously Unreleased Noise Study of New Runway at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (Nov. 14, 1998). The Star Tribune reports the city of Richfield, Minnesota, charges the Metropolitan Airports Commission withheld a noise study report that held information favorable to Richfield's efforts to secure state and federal noise mitigation funds to address low-frequency noise from a proposed new runway at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

Noisy Leaf Blowers Replace Quiet Rakes in Suburban United States (Nov. 14, 1998). The Boston Globe reports the noisy leaf blower has taken its place alongside the snow blower and ride-on lawn mover as tools of modern suburban living outside Boston, Massachusetts, and throughout the United States.

NJ Farm Market and Neighbors Close to Settling Noise Dispute (Nov. 12, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports a long-running dispute between a farm market in Holmdel, New Jersey, and neighboring residents who object to noise from the business, may be close to resolution.

Officials of Boston's Big Dig Respond to Noise Complaints (Nov. 12, 1998). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports it's noisy having one of the nation's largest construction projects going on in your backyard, according to residents of Boston's North End neighborhood.

Avon, Ohio, to Get Noise Barriers Along Widened Section of Interstate 90 (Nov. 10, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports Avon, Ohio, will get noise walls built along Interstate 90 next year.

Two Chicago Suburbs to Get Mobile Monitors to Measure Noise from O'Hare (Nov. 7, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports mobile noise monitors will soon be placed in Arlington Heights and Rolling Meadows to measure noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Arizona Residents Become Noise Experts to Get Sound Wall Built (Nov. 4, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports residents of Ahwatukee Foothills in Arizona pleaded with the village planning committee Monday to build a noise mitigation wall near Interstate 10, claiming the noise is unbearable and driving their housing values down.

Truck Noise is a Greater Concern (Nov.1 1998). Fleet Owner reports that one reason for the high number of complaints is the sheer number of trucks. Truck traffic has increased almost sixfold between 1960 and 1995, according to the Dept. of Transportation (DOT). The other reason is that grass-roots anti- noise groups are no longer considered kooks by politicians. Congressional researchers say nearly 20-million Americans are exposed to noise levels that can lead to cardiovascular problems, strokes, and nervous disorders. Another 40-million are exposed to noise levels that cause sleep or work disruption.

Burbank Airport Begins Noise Study, Wants City to Abide by Night Flight Findings (Oct. 20, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports Burbank Airport commissioners voted unanimously Monday to begin a study that could lead to required anti- noise measures, which may include a mandatory curfew on night flights.

County Supervisors Add Noise Monitoring to Flight Tests at California's El Toro (Oct. 20, 1998). City News Service reports county supervisors requested noise monitoring and night flights be added to a series of flight tests conducted at California's former El Toro Marine base, a site being considered for a commercial airport.

RI Town Moves Toward Drafting Enforceable Noise Ordinance (Oct. 19, 1998). Providence Journal-Bulletin reports noise problems from loud cars to early morning industrial operations prove challenging to Rhode Island residents.

Cleveland Says Airport Expansion Doesn't Mean Noise Increase; Mayor Announces Plans for Further Expansion while Airport Neighbors Continue to Wait for Home Soundproofing (Oct. 16, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports the expansion of runways at Ohio's Cleveland Hopkins International Airport can happen while keeping any noise increase to a minimum, city officials said yesterday.

Road Noise Makes Life Unbearable in Upscale Maryland Planned Community (Oct. 16, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports many residents in a Columbia, Maryland, planned community are subjected to unbearable noise from a four-lane highway that splits their community.

Bottling Plant in Georgia Works to Resolve its Noise Problem (Oct. 15, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports residents in the Georgia towns of Covington and Oxford soon will get relief from the noise of a nearby bottling plant.

Illinois Judge Dismisses Part of Parish's Noise Case Against O'Hare (Oct. 15, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports an Illinois county judge dismissed some elements of a lawsuit filed by a school against Chicago over soundproofing against O'Hare International Airport noise.

Citizens' Group Says Study Shows Increased Flights at Dallas' Love Field Will Create Dangerous Noise and Traffic Levels in Texas Neighborhoods (Oct. 14, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports increasing flights at Dallas Love Field would lead to more noise and longer traffic delays on nearby streets, according to a study paid for by a neighboring homeowners group.

Florida's Martin County Enacts Noise Ordinance (Oct. 14, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports many residents of Stuart, Florida, are pleased with new noise restrictions adopted by the commissioners of Martin County.

Public Hearing in Austin, Texas, will Address Noise Study Projections for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (Oct. 14, 1998). The Austin American-Statesman reports officials in Austin, Texas, will hold a public meeting tonight to discuss a noise study in preparation for the May 1999 opening of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport for passenger traffic.

County Council Approves Noise-Reduction Plan for Washington's Boeing Field; Activists Not Satisfied (Oct. 13, 1998). The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports an ambitious program that will reduce aircraft noise at Boeing Field won the unanimous approval of Washington's King County Council yesterday. Some activists and airport neighbors disapprove of the plan.

Noise from New Jersey Firing Range Pits Neighboring Towns (Oct. 13, 1998). The Record reports the neighboring New Jersey towns of Allendale and Waldwick are engaged in a dispute over noise from a Waldwick firing range.

Resident Objects to Expanded Flights at Washington, DC's Reagan National Airport (Oct. 11, 1998). The Washington Post published a letter from a McLean resident who objects to expanded flights at Washington, DC's Reagan National Airport. Mary Wakefield writes:

Noise Sources and Solutions in Washington, DC, Area Neighborhoods (Oct. 10, 1998). The Washington Post reports that while noise may be an unavoidable part of apartment life in the Washington, DC, area, as it is elsewhere, developers, property managers, and tenants themselves can take steps to muffle their problems.

Washington's Boeing Field Will Undergo Noise Reduction Efforts (Oct. 9, 1998). The Seattle Times reports the Metropolitan King County Council next week is expected to authorize the most extensive noise -reduction efforts in the history of Washington's Boeing Field.

Illinois Highway Officials Refuse Lisle's Request for Noise Barriers (Oct. 7, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports Lisle, Illinois, officials pledged this week to continue the fight for noise barriers along a three-quarter-mile stretch of the North-South Tollway.

England's Birmingham International Airport Welcomes Quieter British Airways Planes (Oct. 7, 1998). The Birmingham Post reports British Airways has announced the purchase of new, quieter, and more environmentally friendly aircraft. The news is welcomed by England's Birmingham International Airport.

FAA Worried EU Will Limit Operation of Hushkitted Aircraft (Oct. 5, 1998). Aviation Daily reports the FAA is concerned that the European Union is getting ready to act unilaterally to limit the operation of hushkitted aircraft. According to the article, in a Sept. 14 letter, David Traynham, FAA assistant administrator for policy, planning and international aviation, told Michel Ayral, European Commission director for air transport, that a proposed EU regulation "would serve only to diminish the effectiveness of the ICAO process under a mistaken belief that U.S. carriers will transfer their Stage 3 hushkitted airplanes to EU registers after Dec. 31, 1999."

Health Officers Promise to Investigate Complaints Regarding Low Frequency Noise (Oct. 5, 1998). The Aberdeen Evening Express says that environmental health officers will monitor low frequency noise levels emanating from an Abderdeen dairy. According to the article their new "state of the art" equipment can filter noise frequencies.

Noisy Dutch Plane Will Tryout O'Hare's Hush House (Oct. 5, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the Dutch Air Force is scheduled to tryout O'Hare's Hush House. According to the article they plan to use one of their big planes - a Hercules C-130H - to test out O'Hare's $3.1 million structure.

Company Aims to Make Airplanes Less Offensive to the Ears (Oct. 5, 1998). The Associated Press reports about how a small company is taking a forefront position to reduce airplane noise by changing the air flow around wings and fuselages.

Trees Deemed Insufficient Noise Abatement for Plans to Widen Busy Roadway (Oct. 5, 1998). The Baltimore Sun published the following editorial regarding the use of trees to muffle the sound of vehicles on a heavily traveled route.

Who Will Pay for Sound Walls Along Missouri's Interstate 270? (Oct. 1, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that after the state denied their request to pay for sound walls along Interstate270, Creve Coeur, Missouri, officials are considering their financing options to mitigate noise along the interstate highway.

Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Will Address Noise Complaints about Automotive Plant (Sep. 30, 1998). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports the city of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, is investigating complaints from neighbors about noise at the local Amcast Automotive Plant.

Maryland Village Requests Noise Barriers; Offered Trees Instead (Sep. 29, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports residents of a Maryland village have been offered evergreen trees to buffer noise from a four-lane highway, although officials admit the vegetation will do little to mitigate the noise.

Montreal Residents Suffer from Perpetual Transportation Noise (Sep. 28, 1998). The Gazette reports Montreal residents who are assaulted by noise from planes, trains and automobiles believe landlords and homeowners need to speak out about this quality of life issue.

Noise Study Focuses on Private Jets at Burbank Airport (Sep. 28, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports while Burbank city leaders fight a proposed new passenger terminal at Burbank Airport, citing noise factors, two private terminals that house the jets of Hollywood moguls such as Time Warner and DreamWorks SKG escape city scrutiny.

ConnDOT to Begin Noise Monitoring at Bradley International Airport (Sep. 26, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports residents of Simsbury, Connecticut, attended the last of three state Department of Transportation meetings on solving the noise problem at the increasingly busy Bradley International Airport.

Despite Noise and Safety Concerns, Senate Approves Plan to Increase Flights at Washington's Reagan National Airport (Sep. 26, 1998). The Washington Post reports the US Senate approved a plan yesterday to add flights at Washington's Reagan National Airport despite local fears that it would add to noise in neighboring communities and undermine business at Dulles International Airport.

Senate Approves More Flights from Reagan Airport; Washington, DC, Residents Expect More Noise (Sep. 26, 1998). The Washington Times reports residents who live near Washington, DC's Reagan National Airport are angry about Senate approval of a bill to increase flights at the busy airport. Residents say increased flights mean more noise and traffic.

Seeking Relief, Conn. Residents Urge Expedience in Noise Study at Bradley Airport (Sep. 25, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports Connecticut residents affected by noise from Bradley International Airport urged consultants to avoid any delays of a planned noise study.

Senate Approves Regulation of Air Tour Noise in National Parks (Sep. 25, 1998). U.S. Newswire reports the United States Senate approved measures to address the problem of excessive noise from aircraft in national parks.

European Commission Requires Towns to Create Noise Contour Maps (Sep. 24, 1998). The Leicester Mercury reports noise blackspots in Leicester, England, will be targeted as part of pollution research mandated by the European Commission.

Illinois Town Gets State Funds to Build Noise-Abatement Wall along Highway (Sep. 24, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports an Illinois town was presented Wednesday night with a state grant to fund a noise-abatement wall along an interstate highway.

Montreal Airport Switch Brings Noise and Aggravation to Some Residents (Sep. 24, 1998). The Gazette reports Montreal, Canada, residents continue to call Aeroports de Montreal to rage about airplane noise since international flights were transferred from outlying Mirabel Airport to Dorval Airport a year ago.

Washington Area Lawmakers Object to Senate Bill Allowing Increased Flights at Reagan National (Sep. 24, 1998). The Associated Press reports a final Senate vote is expected Friday, despite some local opposition, to increase flights at Washington, DC's Reagan National Airport.

Competition for Early-Bird Flights at California's Burbank Airport Could Dispose of Voluntary Morning Curfew (Sep. 23, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that Reno Air has requested that Burbank Airport in California allow flights in the early hours, but residents strongly opposed the idea due to possible increases in noise. The airport was set to decide on the request Tuesday, but delayed its decision until at least next week because of the public outcry.

Conn. Residents Petition for Relief from I-95 Noise (Sep. 23, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports close to 100 Connecticut residents who live along a stretch of I-95 have signed a petition calling for an investigation of escalating noise along the highway.

Even with Quieter Planes, O'Hare Neighbors Say Air Traffic Noise Increasing (Sep. 23, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports two reports released Tuesday by the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission highlight a contradiction in the controversy over airplane noise at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Even though air carriers use quieter aircraft, O'Hare's neighbors say noise has increased dramatically.

Glendale, Arizona, Considers Measures to Protect Residents from Freeway Noise (Sep. 23, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports Glendale, Arizona's, City Council is considering a number of noise-reduction measures to protect residents from freeway noise.

Home Depot Makes Noise on Long Island and Across the Country (Sep. 23, 1998). Newsday reports people across the country, including many on Long Island, New York, say Home Depot, one of the country's largest retailers, is a noisy neighbor that doesn't belong near residential neighborhoods.

New Zealand Residents Want Airport Noise Reduced Sooner than Later (Sep. 23, 1998). The Evening Standard reports at a meeting about airport generated noise attended by ratepayers and representatives from the Palmerston North city council, airport company, and Fieldair Engineering, New Zealanders' main message was, "Let's curb noise now."

Pennsylvania Airport Buys More Land and Property to Create Noise Buffer Zone (Sep. 23, 1998). The Morning Call reports Pennsylvania's Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority will purchase land and homes to reduce noise complaints from the Village of Schoenersville.

NH Residents Oppose Power Plant, Voice Noise and Safety Concerns (Sep. 22, 1998). The Union Leader reports a group opposed to a power plant in Londonderry, New Hampshire, expressed concerns last night about noise, safety, and diminished property values to the Town Council.

Residents in English Town Demand Relief from Road Noise (Sep. 22, 1998). The Birmingham Evening Mail reports residents of Evesham, England, are requesting a low noise surface be laid on a busy highway that creates constant and intolerable traffic noise.

Editorial Objects to Unsightly Highway Noise Barriers in U.S. (Sep. 21, 1998). USA Today published an editorial charging that while highway noise barriers block traffic noise for nearby residents, they also block scenic views for motorists and take the joy out of traveling in the U.S.

FAA Adds $1Million to Soundproofing Fund at RI's Green Airport (Sep. 21, 1998). The Associated Press reports T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode, Island, is getting $1 million from the Federal Aviation Administration to insulate neighboring homes against jet noise.

FAA Gives RI's Green Airport Additional Funds to Soundproof Homes (Sep. 21, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the Federal Aviation Administration has awarded T.F. Green Airport an additional $1 million to insulate more houses against jet noise.

Florida Aviation Dept. Uses New Technology to Monitor Impact of Jet Noise (Sep. 21, 1998). The Journal of Commerce reports the Miami-Dade Aviation Department in Florida revealed a technology on Friday used to monitor airplane noise. This new system could mean significant implications for the air cargo industry.

Ohio Residents Offered Barriers to Soften Noise Impact of Highway Expansion (Sep. 21, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports the Ohio Department of Transportation doubles the number of lanes on I-270, and neighborhoods along Ohio's north Outerbelt will decide whether they want sound walls built between their homes and the highway.

U.S. National Park Ban of Personal Watercraft Causes Ire Among Fans (Sep. 21, 1998). The Christian Science Monitor reports after years of debate, the U.S. National Park Service has banned the use of personal watercraft (PWC) in its parks with a few exceptions.

Residents Demand Action on Jet Noise at NJ's Teterboro Airport (Sep. 18, 1998). The Record reports local New Jersey officials and residents fighting increased jet traffic demanded action at a demonstration at Teterboro Airport on Thursday.

Arlington Heights Updates Plans to Fight Noise at Chicago's O'Hare Airport (Sep. 17, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports Arlington Heights' Advisory Committee on O'Hare Noise began drafting a new battle plan this week to fight airplane noise.

Living Under Detroit Airport's Flight Paths is "Hell on Earth" (Sep. 17, 1998). The Detroit News reports one New Boston, Illinois, resident who lives in Detroit Metro Airport's southern flight path says the recent Northwest pilots strike gave her temporary reprieve from unbearable noise.

Long Beach, NY, Gives First Ticket for Violating Leafblower Ban Four Years After Law Enacted (Sep. 17, 1998). Newsday reports the City of Long Beach, New York, issued the first citation for violation of its leafblower ban, a law enacted in 1994.

Missouri's Lambert Field to Install New Noise Monitor to Aid Residents (Sep. 17, 1998). The Louis Post-Dispatch reports an easement was approved for a new permanent noise monitor to determine the amount of noise residents are subjected to from Missouri's Lambert Field Airport.

Noise is a Hot Topic in Yorba Linda, California (Sep. 17, 1998). The Orange County Register reports two of the hottest topics before the Yorba Linda City Council in California were discussed at the council meeting Tuesday. Both issues concerned noise and noise mitigation.

Plan to Move Concert Stage Only Moves the Noise, Doesn't Solve Problem, Say Calgary, Alberta, Residents (Sep. 17, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports some Calgary, Alberta, residents believe a proposed permanent stage at the west end of Prince's Island Park would only direct noise away from one location and bother residents in another area.

Noise Complaints in the United Kingdom Decreasing (Sep. 16, 1998). The Birmingham Evening Mail reports environmental health officers in the United Kingdom announced the public may be becoming more tolerant of noisy neighbors.

Debate over Noise Walls Ranges from Expense and Placement to Materials and Effectiveness; Still, Most Illinois Residents Favor the Sound Barriers (Sep. 13, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports some Illinois drivers may dislike sound walls because they block the view and make the daily commute like driving through a tunnel. But for many suburbanites, sound walls are highly desired. Those who don't have them want them; those who have them want the tallest, thickest wall they can get.

Some Residents in Bergen County, NJ, Feel No Sympathy for Residents Living Near Noisy Route 287 (Sep. 13, 1998). The Record reports readers in Bergen County, New Jersey, mustered little sympathy for a woman unable to get a noise barrier built just beyond her back yard.

United Kingdom to Test Rubber Roads to Reduce Noise (Sep. 13, 1998). Times Newspapers Limited reports Colsoft, a new type of road surface, could come to the relief of United Kingdom residents plagued by traffic noise.

City Officials in Quincy, MA, Act to Restore Quiet in Neighborhoods (Sep. 10, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports city officials in Quincy, Massachusetts, are taking action to give residents relief from noise made by barges unloading oil and early morning dumpster pickups.

Leaders Meet to Discuss O'Hare Airport; Noise Reduction Likely on Agenda (Sep. 9, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports Chicago's Mayor Richard M. Daley, state legislators, major airline executives, and north suburban business leaders will meet to discuss O'Hare International Airport on Thursday during a closed-door meeting.

Aircraft in U.S. Complying with Airport Noise and Capacity Act (Sep. 9, 1998). The Federal Department and Agency Documents reports airplanes in the United States are ahead of the required deadlines to transition to quieter aircraft, reports Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater.

Noise Decreases at Nashville Airport, But Some Tenn. Residents Still Wait for Home Soundproofing (Sep. 8, 1998). The Tennessean reports the Federal Aviation Administration is reducing the size of the noise contour map at Tennessee's Nashville International Airport, saying the airport is quieter than it was in 1993 when the map was made.

Homeowner in Washington State Sues Developers, Charges They Destroyed Natural Noise Buffer and Devalued His Property (Sep. 5, 1998). The News Tribune reports Tacoma, Washington, resident Earl Petit plans to picket the Pierce County Street of Dreams custom home show on its final weekend. Petit claims the developers removed a natural noise buffer between his home and a scrap metal yard, destroying his right to peace and quiet and devaluing his property.

Finger Pointing and Blaming When Residents and Local Officials Discuss Noise from Warwick's Expanded T. F. Green Airport (Sep. 4, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports Warwick, Rhode Island, Councilman Gene Kelly held a meeting on airport noise last night. The incumbent mayor, a mayoral candidate, and a state airport official turned out to respond to residents' concerns about noise and expansion at Warwick's T. F. Green Airport.

Neighborhood Group Succeeds in Effort to Get First Noise Barrier Built in Maine (Sep. 4, 1998). The Bangor Daily News reports residents in one of Bangor, Maine's, noisiest neighborhoods won a battle Thursday to get a noise barrier erected against increasing noise from Interstate 95. Residents worry that prolonged exposure to the noise could result in hearing loss or other health problems.

O'Hare Air Traffic Noise on the Rise in Chicago Neighborhoods; Frustrated Noise Panel Wants FAA Help (Sep. 4, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports despite the efforts of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission, the noise problem at O'Hare appears to be worsening. Commission members are requesting from the Federal Aviation Administration stronger support of a plan to steer aircraft away from residential areas.

San Francisco Airport Gets Three Year Variance to Comply with California's Noise Standards; Local and State Leaders Oppose Extension (Sep. 4, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports California's San Francisco International Airport received a variance for another three years to comply with state noise standards and become a quieter neighbor.

Los Angeles' Department of Water and Power Develop a Electric-Powered Leaf Blower that's Quiet (Aug. 18, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power have developed a new electric-powered leaf blower. The new machine is hoped to resolve problems related to the disputed ban on leaf blowers and earn the city money.

Winter Park's City Council Prohibits Engineers from Blowing Their Whistles (Aug. 13, 1998). The Denver Post reports that the town council in Winter Park unanimously passed an ordinance prohibiting the train engineers from blowing their whistles at the two crossings last month. The new development was spurred on by complaints from developers, lodging owners, visitors, and local residents.

Human Powered Gardening Replaces Noisy Power Tools in British Columbia (Aug. 13, 1998). The Vancouver Sun reports about the peaceful home gardening business of Shaughnessy's Graham Clark, whose human powered gardening replaces noisy power mowers and leaf blowers.

Small Town Turned Suburb Suffering from Noise Pollution in Pennsylvania (Aug. 12, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that life is miserable for some township residents in Adams, Pennsylvania. Residents complained to the Township Supervisors about noise emanating from dirt bikes and industrial functions. They are asking town supervisors to adopt a noise ordinance so noisemakers can be brought to court.

Salem, Virginia, Residents Want Noise Wall, Not Re-location When I 81 Expands (Aug. 11, 1998). The Roanoke Times & World News reports residents of Salem, Virginia's, Stonegate community prefer a noise wall to relocation when Interstate 81 is widened.

Warwick, RI, Mayor Suggests Ways for Airport to be a Good Neighbor (Aug. 11, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin published the following editorial by Lincoln Chafee, mayor of Warwick, Rhode Island, about Warwick's T.F. Green Airport. Mayor Chafee outlines ways for the airport to be a good neighbor:

Rhode Island Airport Corporation Hears Residents' Proposals for Noise Reduction at T.F. Green Airport (Aug. 11, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports Rhode Island's state Airport Corporation will sponsor a public meeting Thursday to focus noise and ways to reduce it from Warwick's T.F. Green Airport.

City and FAA Asked to Lower Decibel Level for Homes to Qualify for Insulation from LAX Noise (Aug. 11, 1998). Copley News Service reports the FAA has been asked by the Los Angles County Board of Supervisors to change noise standards so more homes will qualify for federally funded noise insulation from the Los Angeles International Airport.

NH to Expand I-95 Visitor Center and Erect Noise Barriers to Offset Increased Traffic Noise (Aug. 8, 1998). The Union Leader reports the New Hampshire Department of Transportation has announced plans for a major expansion of the visitor center on Interstate 95 just north of the Massachusetts state line. Barriers will be erected to mitigate expected increases in noise levels at nearby homes.

Conn. DOT to Assess Need for Sound Barriers Along Section of I-91 Expansion (Aug. 7, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports that in an effort to determine whether there is a need for sound barriers, the state Connecticut Department of Transportation has begun to monitor traffic noise in neighborhoods along I- 91 in Rocky Hill.

Residents of Housing Project Near Georgia Airport to be Relocated (Aug. 6, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports residents of Lottie Miller Homes public housing project in College Park, Georgia, should soon get relief from airplane noise roaring overhead day and night, a city lawyer said this week.

Florida County Drops Grandfathering Clause in Proposed Noise Ordinance (Aug. 5, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports Martin County, Florida's, proposed noise rules could cost some businesses thousands of dollars to be in compliance.

Not all Agree 'the Louder the Better' as Decibel Levels Rise in U.S. Films (Aug. 5, 1998). USA Today reports movies in the United States sound louder these days because they are being recorded louder, say industry insiders. Movie goers' responses to the pumped up volume vary.

Washington State Moderates Traffic Noise with Tall Noise Walls (Aug. 4, 1998). The Seattle Times reports the biggest noise walls ever put up in the state of Washington are appearing on state Highway 520. Studies showed the unusual height was needed to moderate traffic sounds

Trains in New Jersey May be Required to Use Bells Instead of Horns (Aug. 4, 1998). The Record reports that New Jersey's state legislature is setting forth a bill that calls for trains to use locomotive bells instead of horns. The bill is seen as a potential solution to a dilemma that has upset some Morris County residents since NJ Transit started commuter train service to Manhattan.

Nuns in Dallas, TX, Continue to Negotiate with City about Protection from Traffic Noise (Aug. 1, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports negotiations continue between a group of Carmelite nuns who want to protect their property from increased traffic noise and the city of Dallas, Texas, that wants to expand two roads adjacent to the sisters' convent.

Knott Berry Farms Tries to be a Better Neighbor in El Paso, California (Jul. 30, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that a 30-story amusement park ride at Knott's Berry Farm, which has been drawing resident complaints over noise, is scheduled to receive noise-reduction treatment tonight. The Farm has spent $50,000 so far to pay noise consultants to come up with the solution.

Knott Berry Farm’s Tries to be a Better Neighbor in El Paso, California (Jul. 30, 1998). Los Angeles Times reports that Knott’s Berry Farm is trying to tone down the "scream" in the new Supreme Scream ride by installing sound buffers in the ride's mechanism. According to the article Knott’s has spent about $50,000 on city-hired inspectors to quiet down the new ride.

Disney Project in California Attempts to Mitigate Construction Impacts (Jul. 27, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that contractors working on a major construction project at Disneyland in Anaheim, California are taking special methods to cut down on the negative impacts of the project, including dust, noise, traffic, and other impacts.

Knoxville, Tennessee, Plans to Update City's Noise Ordinance (Jul. 27, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports Knoxville, Tennessee's City Council agenda for Tuesday night includes proposals to update the city's thirty-year-old noise ordinance to make it more enforceable.

The Devastating Effects of Noise Pollution and Some Ways to Ease its Impact (Jul. 27, 1998). Time Magazine reports noise pollution is increasing across Europe. While noise can damage health and destroy peace of mind, there are ways to lessen its impact.

Electronic Monitoring System Used in Grimsby, England, to Combat Noise Nuisances (Jul. 14, 1998). The Grimsby Evening Telegraph reports an English town of Grimsby is using an electronic monitoring system to combat noise pollution.

NYC's Heliport and Helicopter Master Plan Criticized by Activists (Jul. 9, 1998). The New York Times reports a study of New York City's heliports and helicopter flights supported a current ban on tours from one heliport in the city, but failed to endorse new regulations for helicopter flights. The results of the study produced mixed reactions from activists, politicians, and industry representatives.

National Parks Service Ban on Jet Skis May Affect California Sites (Jul. 8, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports personal watercraft would be banned from all national parks as early as next year because of safety, noise and environmental concerns under rules proposed by the National Park Service. In California, personal watercraft could still be operated at the discretion of the local superintendent at units administered by the Park Service.

Neighbors Claim Noise Increase at Firing Range in Grafton, MA (Jul. 8, 1998). The Telegram & Gazette reports the Grafton, Massachusetts, Board of Selectmen last night held a hearing last night to discuss complaints from neighbors of a firing range who claim noise have dramatically increased in recent years.

MBTA Includes Whistles in T Noise Study; Neighbors Hope for Noise Mitigation (Jul. 7, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports the MBTA has agreed to study the noise impact of the trains on Boston's Old Colony lines, including the whistles that engineers blow four times at each street crossing.

Olmstead Falls, Ohio, Fights Noise and Expansion at Cleveland Hopkins Airport (Jul. 6, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports residents and public officials in Olmsted Falls, Ohio, have been working together to prevent more aircraft noise from the planned expansion at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

Solana Beach, CA, Drum Group Cooperates with Noise Laws to Keep Meeting Place (Jul. 5, 1998). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports a drumming circle group in Solana Beach, California, will be allowed to continue to meet at a county park after they worked work out a solution to stay within the noise laws.

Busch Gardens Will Build Noise Walls After Residents Complain of Incessant Screaming from Fans on Popular Roller Coaster (Jul. 4, 1998). The Tampa Tribune reports people living near Busch Gardens are complaining about noise from a giant roller coaster, but the amusement park plans to correct the problem.

Scientists at University of Texas Devise Design Improvement for Noise Walls (Jul. 3, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports because scientists believe noise generated by cars and trucks can damage the hearing of people who live nearby, a group at the University of Texas at Austin is trying to develop the best physical barrier to block noise coming from highways.

San Francisco Supervisor Proposes Entertainment District after Residents Make Noise Complaints (Jul. 2, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports San Francisco's Supervisor Gavin Newsom is proposing the city create an entertainment district to balance needs of clubs and residents in the South of Market section of the city.

Some Montreal Residents Say Neighborhoods and Bars Don't Mix, Citing Noise and Traffic (Jul. 2, 1998). The Gazette reports bars and restaurants in residential area of Montreal have become controversial. Residents complain about noise. West End business owners say they are working to peacefully co-exist in neighborhoods.

UK Government's Aware of Misery Noise Can Cause; Promotes National Noise Awareness Day (Jul. 2, 1998). M2 Presswire published the following press release stating that the United Kingdom's minister responsible for environmental noise declared the government's support for National Noise Awareness Day. The press release read as follows:

Carmelite Nuns Ask for Noise Buffer from New Roads; Texas Town Says Wall Too Expensive (Jul. 1, 1998). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports two former mayors and a former city councilwoman spoke to the City Council last night on behalf of a group of nuns who say the expansion of two roads threatens the serenity of their south Arlington, Texas, monastery.

Cleveland's City Council Asks FAA to Follow Through on Home Insulation Despite New Noise Exposure Map (Jul. 1, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports Cleveland City Council members are working to make sure residents near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport who have waited years to get their homes insulated from jet noise actually receive the government-financed improvements. The council is also urging the Federal Aviation Administration to block the sale of land north of the airport unless a consultant conclusively determines the land is not needed for the airport.

Group Meets with Pilots to Discuss Ways to Reduce Suburban Noise from O'Hare (Jul. 1, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports members of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission met with two chief pilots from United and American airlines Tuesday to brainstorm ideas for reducing noise pollution in the Northwest suburbs.

Residents Consider Proposal to Quiet Washington's King County Airport Inadequate (Jun. 30, 1998). The Seattle Times reports yesterday, after months of community protests over noise from Washington's King County International Airport, a King County Executive proposed a compromise that some residents already consider inadequate.

France will Phase out Noisier Jets at Charles de Gaulle Airport (Jun. 29, 1998). AP Worldstream reports the French government on Monday agreed to phase out noisier jetliners at Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport by 2002.

Mixed Reviews for New Sound Barriers Along Baltimore's I-695 (Jun. 29, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports last week, The Intrepid Commuter column released the results of an unscientific survey of commuters' opinions on aesthetics of the new sound barriers that were erected along portions of Interstate 695. Most drivers who responded found them distasteful.

Feds Fund Three Sound Barrier Projects in NYC (Jun. 28, 1998). The Daily News reports Congress and the White House have approved a multi-million-dollar spending for transportation projects aimed at easing New York's traffic flow along Queens streets, and reducing noise pollution for neighbors of the borough's highways.

Airport Noise Level Plans Require Future Homes to be Soundproofed (Jun. 27, 1998). The Evening Standard reports rural New Zealand residents living under flight paths are concerned about how proposed new noise level limits near Palmerston North airport will affect future homes and additions to existing properties.

Chicago Town Says it Qualifies to Vote on O'Hare Noise Commission (Jun. 26, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports the city of Rolling Meadows, Illinois, wants to have more say about how soundproofing efforts are funded by becoming a voting member of the Chicago-funded O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission.

Columbus Resident Advocates for Preservation of Quiet Streets and Neighborhoods (Jun. 26, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch published the following editorial by Columbus resident, Joe Motil. He opposes the building of a major thoroughfare through an historic section of the city, which he says will bring noise, traffic, and the destruction of urban green space and a neighborhood. Motil writes:

Former Pilot Says Residents Have Little Reason to Complain about Airplane Noise (Jun. 26, 1998). The Palm Beach Post published the following letter to the editor from Florida resident Roy L. Huber. Huber responds to an opinion article about residents' dissatisfaction with airplane noise standards. Huber writes:

Noise Insulation Plans Revealed for Homes Near New Zealand Airport (Jun. 25, 1998). The Dominion reports residents who live near New Zealand's Palmerston North airport will hear tonight about new regulations that affect the noise insulation of new homes.

New Monitoring System at Port Columbus Will Identify Noisy Flights (Jun. 24, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports a state-of-the-art monitoring system planned for Port Columbus should help airport officials better identify the source of noisy flights that give residents sleepless nights.

Expanded T.F. Green Airport Brings More Noise to Rhode Island Residents (Jun. 23, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the newly expanded T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island, is bringing new noise to its host city, afflicting almost 4 square miles of neighborhoods with enough noise to make them eligible for house soundproofing at taxpayer expense.

San Francisco Airport Receives Multi-Million Dollar Package to Reduce Noise (Jun. 23, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports California's San Francisco International Airport received a multi-million dollar grant yesterday intended to make SFO more safe and efficient. About $11 million will go toward airfield work, while the rest of the funds will be devoted to noise reduction, including $4 million for soundproofing homes in South San Francisco and San Bruno.

Noise Mitigation Measures Needed in U.S. Schools to Reduce Interference with Learning (Jun. 22, 1998). The Portland Press Herald reports classroom noise and reverberation is a fundamental and little understood issue that interferes with learning at schools in Maine and across the nation, experts say.

Sound Wall in Developers' Plans Sparks Controversy in Calif. Town (Jun. 21, 1998). The article reports initial plans for the Heritage Park Estates project included a 14-foot-high sound wall, but members of the town staff suggested installing an earthen berm instead. "We have looked at several different options on how to mitigate the sound and how to meet the town's concerns about preserving a semirural appearance to the project," Remington said after the meeting. "Just doing an earthen berm would require a massive amount of dirt to be moved." A berm would involve moving 12,000 to 14,000 cubic yards of dirt to the site, an effort that would cost $120,000 to $140,000, Remington said. "That's a big pile," he said. The berm also would result in the loss of 11 lots.

Study Predicts High Noise Levels for Planned Housing near Colorado's Buckley Air Base (Jun. 21, 1998). The Rocky Mountain News reports a recently released report by the Air Force concerning noise levels from Buckley Air National Guard Base may force Aurora, Colorado, city planners to reconsider already-approved developments.

Calf. High School Gets More Funds to Soundproof Against Noise from Lindbergh Field (Jun. 19, 1998). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports California's Point Loma High School will get additional funds to provide relief from the constant noise of nearby Lindbergh Field.

Sky Harbor International Airport in Arizona Announces That it is Keeping Flights on Track with One Million Dollar Monitoring System (Jun. 16, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that their one million-dollar monitoring system at Sky Harbor International Airport indicates that about 95 percent of airplanes follow the correct flight pattern after they take off. Officials at Sky Harbor International Airport officials announced plans June 15 to keep even more flights on track to protect neighborhoods from noise caused by departing planes. They hope to increase compliance to 97 or 98 percent.

Las Vegas Residents and Business Owners Question McCarran Airport's Agenda in Widespread Buyout Tactics (Jun. 15, 1998). The Las Vegas Business Press reports some residents and business owners in areas surrounding Las Vegas are questioning the agenda of McCarran International Airport's seemingly aggressive but selective buyout procedures.

Noise Mitigation Efforts Accompany Expansion at California's Palm Springs Regional Airport (Jun. 12, 1998). The Public Record-Palm Desert reports June 8 marked the start of an expansion project at California's Palm Springs Regional Airport. Palm Springs' Director of Transportation, Al Smoot, explained to a group the benefits the expansion will provide. He also outlined noise mitigation efforts that are included in the expansion.

European Commission Plans to Ban "Hush Kitted" Planes by 2000 (Jun.1 1998). Air Cargo World reports the European Commission plans to ban "hush-kitted" planes in the near future.

Press Release Touts Noise Reduction Headphones for Airplane Travel (May 27, 1998). PR Newswire released the following press release from Noise Cancellation Technologies, a firm that sells noise reduction headphones, regarding the company's product:

Cargo Companies at Mather Airport Oppose Nearby Development (May 22, 1998). The Sacramento Business Journal reports cargo companies at Sacramento's Mather Airport fear if new development is allowed closer to the facility, it will be the end of the new hub.

Georgia Residents Oppose Metal Recycler Fearing Noise (May 20, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports that despite outraged neighbors, planning commissioners in Gwinnett County, Georgia, approved the building of a metal recycler.

Kentucky Residents Seek Noise Barrier at New Interchange; City Council Joins Effort (May 20, 1998). The Courier-Journal reports the St. Matthews City Council last week joined residents in an effort to persuade the state to add noise barriers to a new interchange at Westport Road and the Watterson Expressway.

LAX Residential Soundproofing Program Enters Second Phase (May 20, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that as part of the soundproofing program for residents, being undertaken by Los Angeles International Airport, another contract was awarded today. It was the fourth contract awarded that will be part of the program's second stage.

Sound Walls Needed on Louisiana's I-10 According to State Officials (May 20, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports residents concerned about state plans to construct 10- to 24-foot-high noise -barriers along Interstate 10 will get a final chance to be heard in two public hearings this week.

Noisy Post Office Disturbs Rhode Island Residents Night and Day (May 18, 1998). Providence Journal-Bulletin reports residents of Westerly, Rhode Island, complained to the Town Council that their post office is a noisy neighbor.

NY Resident Says Noise Makers Should Pay (May 17, 1998). The New York Times published the following letter to the editor from Marcia H. Lemmon of New York City's Lower East Side. Ms. Lemmon's letter addresses who should take responsibility for noise and the ensuing costs of soundproofing. She is the chairwoman of the Ludlow Block Association.

Go-Gart Plan in Louisiana Town Angers Residents and Councilman (May 16, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports a proposed go-cart track at Mandeville's Putt-Putt Golf & Games has residents in a nearby subdivision worried and at least one city councilman upset.

Letter from Dept. of Aviation Clarifies Methods of O'Hare Noise Data Collection (May 16, 1998). The Chicago Tribune published the following letter from Mary Rose Loney, Commissioner, Department of Aviation. In her letter, Ms. Loney seeks to clarify information reported in a previous Tribune article about the collection of noise data from O'Hare to establish noise contour maps:

Neighbors of Orlando Sanford Airport Say their Ideas to Curb Jet Noise are Ignored (May 15, 1998). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports a group of Florida residents has suggested ways to curb jet noise from Orlando Sanford Airport, but the group feels their ideas have been ignored by the Noise Abatement Committee.

Sante Fe, NM, Lounge Agrees to Noise Restrictions (May 15, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports Santa Fe, New Mexico, city councilors on Wednesday adopted an agreement between the city and El Farol Restaurant & Lounge, ending a lengthy noise dispute with the nightclub.

Some Say Police Firing Range Incompatible with Quiet Use Redevelopment Plans for WA Army Post (May 15, 1998). The Columbian of Vancouver, Washington, reports Clark County commissioners decided Thursday that a redevelopment plan for a former Army post should include police firing ranges, much to the dismay of nearby residents.

Fearing Ground Noise Impact, Residents Ask Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport for Redevelopment Money for Mitigation (May 14, 1998). The Star Tribune reports Richfield residents and officials pleaded with airport officials Wednesday to protect their city from the negative effects of the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport expansion.

Port of Seattle Agrees to Fund Noise and Soundproofing Study for Highline Schools (May 14, 1998). The Seattle Times reports the Port of Seattle and school officials say they're close to reaching a deal that would begin the process of outfitting schools near Sea-Tac Airport with insulation to muffle the noise of jets.

Sante Fe Business Can Keep Live Music; Must Follow City's Noise Ordinance (May 14, 1998). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports an agreement between the Santa Fe City Council and a local business means the lounge will continue to offer live amplified music, but hours for live performances will be limited.

Shorter Runways Mean Less Noise from Cleveland Hopkins Airport (May 14, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports the length of the proposed new runways at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport will be significantly reduced to appease residents who have objected to increases in the noise of aircraft taking off and landing.

Noise Abatement Group Attempts to Quiet Portland Airport (May 8, 1998). The Columbian reports since total elimination of noise from the Portland International Airport is impossible, PDX and the airport's Noise Abatement Advisory Committee are making attempts to mitigate the noise. The article goes on to list some of the mitigation measures and their challenges.

NJ Residents Win Tax Cuts in Fight to Reduce Rail Noise (May 7, 1998). The Record reports New Jersey residents are fighting train noise by making tax appeals. With one resident's victory setting a precedent, others are following suit, seeking compensation for the noise they endure. Meanwhile Congress is considering a ban on whistle-blowing at crossings while seeking alternative safety measures.

Washington School District Sponsors "A Sound Education;" Explores Ways to Reduce Classroom Noise from Seattle Airport (May 6, 1998). The Seattle Times reports the Highline School District in Des Moines, Washington, has hired a firm to measure noise from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and to advise the district on ways to reduce jet noise in classrooms. Teachers have involved students in studying the problem and coming up with solutions.

NJ Residents Want Alternatives to Concrete for Highway Noise Barriers (May 5, 1998). The Record reports New Jersey's Assembly Transportation Committee approved a bill Monday that would allow counties to choose the form of their highway noise barriers.

Ventura County Airports Conduct Noise Studies; May Apply for FAA Grants (May 5, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports the Camarillo and Oxnard airports are undergoing a noise study to determine if there is a problem at either airstrip.

Revitalization Plans Bring Noise Worries to Residents of Fort Worth Neighborhood (May 5, 1998). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports while officials and business owners celebrate the steps being made toward commercial progress in a one area of Fort Worth, Texas, some nearby residents worry about traffic and noise. the opening of a Mexican market on North Main Street,

Michigan Woman Wants Detroit Airport to Buy her Home, Claiming Health Effects from Noise (May 4, 1998). The Detroit News reports a Michigan resident is battling with the Detroit Metropolitan Airport to buy her home, which lies beneath takeoff and landing flight path. The noise from the planes is slowly deafening her children, she claims.

Kentucky Residents Request Noise Barrier along New Interchange (May 3, 1998). The Courier-Journal reports St. Matthews residents whose homes border a planned interchange along Kentucky's Interstate 264 have requested the state erect a concrete noise barrier.

Chicago Must Fund Study to Soundproof School from O'Hare Noise (May 1, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports the city of Chicago was ordered to pay for engineering plans showing the differences between its proposal to soundproof Immaculate Conception Schools in Elmhurst and the proposal submitted by school officials. Chicago will pay about $100,000 for the comparison.

Lawsuit Continues; Chicago Will Pay for Cost Estimates to Soundproof Church (May 1, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports city administrators tentatively agreed to pay for an estimate of the costs of soundproofing a Catholic school and church in Elmhurst that are suing the city over O'Hare Airport noise.

CA Residents Fight for Sound Wall as Shield from Trains (Apr. 30, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that in Orange County, California railroad noise has been a problem for many years, and residents have continued to push for noise walls in the area.

Noise Impact Study May Result in Airport Buying Homes Affected by FedEx Hub (Apr. 30, 1998). The News & Record of Greensboro, North Carolina, reports that because the new FedEx hub and a third runway are expected to alter the high- noise areas around the Piedmont Triad International Airport, the Airport Authority may purchase a number of homes.

Weymouth Residents Complain of Increased Aircraft Noise from Logan; Massport to Investigate (Apr. 30, 1998). The Patriot Ledger of Quincy, Massachusetts, reports state officials plan to investigate why there is an increase in aircraft noise complaints from residents in Weymouth. Several hundred people living in those areas have signed a petition complaining of increased airplane noise.

NY Residents Say Noise and Fumes Accompany Go-Cart Track (Apr. 29, 1998). The Times Union of Albany, New York, reports an angry crowd of Turf Community Park residents Tuesday night protested a proposed go-cart tract and urged the Town Board to side with them.

Kentucky Residents Told Cost Too High for Noise Wall Along I-264 (Apr. 23, 1998). The Courier-Journal of Louisville, Kentucky, published the following question and answer in its News Fact Finder column, a service to readers who have questions about public works projects. Residents John and Irene Pircock of Shively asked about erecting noise barriers on Kentucky's Interstate 264:

Columnist Lists Ways to Insulate Home Against a Noisy Neighborhood (Apr. 19, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News printed a column in which the writer responds to a question by a reader about how to dampen noise from traffic, barking dogs, kids playing, late-night parties, etc. -- the general noise from a growing neighborhood. The columnist responds by discussing types of insulation, windows, walls, and other materials that can help deaden noise.

Residents Along Florida's Tri-Rail Expansion Demand Protection from More Noise (Apr. 14, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports residents at a mobile-home community for seniors in Deerfield Beach, Florida, fear current noise and vibrations from trains and rail tracks are about to increase.

Enforce Santa Fe's Noise Ordinance (Apr. 13, 1998). The Santa Fe New Mexican published an editorial about on-going noise issues in Santa Fe, prompted most recently by residents' complaints about a local bar. It's the editor's opinion that a sound-level meter and an enforceable ordinance would solve the city's noise problems.

Tips to Reduce the Amount of Outside Noise that Filters Inside Your Home (Apr. 13, 1998). The Copley News Service reports on ways to prevent the sounds of a noisy neighborhood-steady traffic, dogs barking, children at play, and late-night parties-from filling your home..

New Orleans Residents Welcome Noise Barrier Walls along I-10 (Apr. 12, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports many residents who live along the Interstate 10 Service Road are supportive of building sound barriers along the highway.

Will Trees Protect High School from Mass. Highway Noise? (Apr. 10, 1998). The Telegram & Gazette reports the Massachusetts Highway Department has agreed to plant fast-growing trees along the road near Auburn High School in an effort to muffle the noise from heavy traffic.

Noise Expert Says Wall Won't Block Noise from Ohio Amphitheater (Apr. 10, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports Westerville, Ohio's noise consultant said yesterday the higher wall planned for the Polaris Amphitheater this summer won't solve the noise problem in the neighborhood. Instead, he advocates for stricter enforcement of existing noise standards and stronger penalties for violators.

Study to Assess Impact of Sea-Tac Noise on Washington Schools (Apr. 10, 1998). The News Tribune of Tacoma, Washington, reports that the Highline School District has hired sound experts to measure acoustic conditions in classrooms affected by the noise from nearby Sea-Tac Airport.

Albany, New York Considers Zoning Change to Allow Controversial Go-cart Track (Apr. 9, 1998). The Times Union reports the town board will hold a public hearing later this month to consider a zoning change that would allow a controversial go-cart track at a local driving range.

Illinois Funds Two Studies of Highway Noise Barriers (Apr. 9, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Illinois Transportation Research Center (ITRC) is funding two traffic noise -related studies at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville's School of Engineering in response to residents' concerns.

The Town of Eagle, Wisconsin Fights Against Clay Pigeon Shooting Business and State Department of Natural Resources (Apr. 6, 1998). Journal Sentinel reports the town of Eagle, Wisconsin is fighting against Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources and the Wern Valley Inc., a business which operates shooting ranges, in its effort to ban clay shooting. The Town of Eagle initially banned the sport in response to noise complaints but the town's order was reversed when the Waukesha County Circuit Court ruled that the town did not act properly in refusing a conditional use permit for the range last August.

California State Legislature to Consider Bill Preventing Cities in California from Banning or Regulating Leaf Blowers (Apr. 5, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports the long-running controversy over the noise-versus-utility of leaf blowers is now sweeping into California's state legislature, where a bill before the state Senate would prevent cities from banning or independently regulating the machines.

Removed Trees along Turnpike Increase Noise for Florida Residents (Apr. 5, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports it's unclear who removed the trees along Northwest 52nd Avenue which runs parallel to Florida's Turnpike, but the result is a plague of noise and dust for residents.

Committee in St. Louis,Missouri Secures Noise Monitor from Airport Authority as a Response to Residents' Complaints (Apr. 2, 1998). St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the airport authority is placing monitors in residential areas in a response to residents' complaints about noisy aircraft. The monitors will be able to help pinpoint the altitude and position of the plane when a noise complaint is called into the airport.

Members of City Council Discover Potential Federal Funds to Help Them Eliminate or Decrease Noise from Freight Train Whistles in Riverside, California (Apr. 2, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports that members of Riverside's city council in California may be able to obtain federal funds to eliminate or decrease the noise from freight train whistles passing through town.

Kennels in Wales Approved Without Conditions Despite Residents' Noise Fears (Apr. 1, 1998). The South Wales Evening Post reports a Swansea farm has been given approval to build kennels despite fears about noise nuisance.

New Building in Taiwan Dampens Noise From Jet Aircraft Testing (Mar. 28, 1998). The China News reports that a "hush house," designed to test jets while dampening noise, was unveiled in Taichung, Taiwan on Thursday.

Calif. Restaurant Served Restrictions after Noise Complaints from Residents (Mar. 26, 1998). The Orange County Register reports a new restaurant which practices "concept dining" has brought complaints from Lido Isle residents and others across the bay for its exuberant celebrations.

Florida Concrete Factory Reduces Noise for Workers and Nearby Residents (Mar. 21, 1998). The Palm Beach Post reports that a concrete block factory in Riviera Beach, Florida, is being called "the most technologically advanced" in the United States. Among its innovations are its techniques to reduce noise for workers.

New York Town Wants to Move Toll Barriers Citing Noise and Dirt (Mar. 20, 1998). The Buffalo News of Buffalo, New York, reports that Erie County legislators voted 12-5 Thursday to ask the State Thruway Authority to relocate the Williamsville and Lackawanna toll barriers to protect nearby residents from noise and pollution.

Virginia Quarry gets Expanded Hours, Promises Noise Abatement Plan (Mar. 19, 1998). The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that quarry operator Martin Marietta Aggregates promised to be a good neighbor in return for expanded hours of operation.

Tollway Noise May Get One Chicago Neighborhood Noise Barriers; No to the Other for Now (Mar. 18, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority is compiling noise-level readings along the North-South Tollway prompted by residents' complaints of tollway noise.

Armstrong Makes Ceiling Tiles Certified to Reduce Noise in Workplace (Mar. 17, 1998). PR Newswire reports over 70% of U.S. office workers say their productivity would increase if their workspaces were less noisy (source: American Society of Interior Designers study). In addition, over 70% of today's office spaces are based on "open plan" environments, where the din of routine activities can negatively impact worker productivity. Given this, architects, facility managers and acoustical consultants need to ensure that the workspaces they design and build can provide the noise reduction levels required by the businesses they work for. And, for the first time, this is possible!

Barnegat Toll Plaza on Garden State Parkway Will Get Quiet Pavement, Maybe Noise Barrier (Mar. 17, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports that the New Jersey Highway Authority is considering a noise barrier for the Garden State Parkway toll plaza at Barnegat.

Cincinnati Airport Brings Jobs, But Not Without Noise and Land Costs in Boone County (Mar. 16, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Boone County, Kentucky, residents know the price for the prosperity brought by the Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport. Among the prices paid: jet aircraft noise, loss of land and homes, and now, the airport wants to close a section of road. Residents have objected to this last request.

EU Freezes Number of Hush-Kitted Aircraft; They're Legal, but Not So Quiet (Mar. 13, 1998). AFX News reports the European Commission is proposing a directive so that "hush-kitted" aircraft - aircraft with older engines muffled to meet tighter modern noise pollution standards - cannot be added to the registers of the EU after April 1, 1999.

Go Kart Track Approved Near Office Building in Parkway Village, Ohio (Mar. 13, 1998). The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch reports a proposed outdoor Go Kart racing track in Parkway Village received approval despite opposition for a nearby building owner who voiced concerns about noise.

Noisy Sewer Pumps Double Edged Sword for Massachusetts Residents (Mar. 13, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports a Milton, Massachusetts, resident appeared before town selectmen last night pleading for an end to noisy gas-operated sewer pumps located in his neighborhood.

Memphis Go Kart Track Under Consideration; Noise Concerns (Mar. 12, 1998). The Commercial Appeal reports a Memphis amusement business has applied for a special use permit to operative an outdoor Go Kart track near Perkins. The request was put on hold last month for further study following concerns about how noise from the motors might affect nearby businesses and homes.

Boise Commissioners Say New Road to Abate Truck Noise (Mar. 12, 1998). The Idaho Statesman of Boise reports Ada County Highway District commissioners approved a new road plan to reduce garbage trucks' noise.

Ear Muffs Relieve Patients of Construction Noise (Mar. 11, 1998). The Daily Record reports that heart patients at the Ayr Hospital were upset by noise from hospital construction. The report describes how the hospital is making use of ear muffs to content the noise weary patients.

Louisiana Receives Funding for Soundproofing of Homes in Flight Paths (Mar. 11, 1998). The Advocate reports that the Federal Aviation Administration will hand over $1 million to Metro Airport in coming weeks to pay for soundproofing 25 houses near the airport's runway.

California Gardeners Protest Proposed Leaf Blower Ban (Mar. 10, 1998). The San Francisco Examiner reports that gardeners in Menlo Park, California are preparing to protest the proposed ban on gas powered leaf blowers.

Canadian Company Markets Noise Pollution Solution in Europe (Mar. 9, 1998). Canada NewsWire Ltd. reports that John Barrett, President of ATCO Noise Management Ltd., announced the opening of the company's new branch office in Staffordshire, England.

Kentucky Residents Worried About Noise From UPS Expansion at Airport (Mar. 7, 1998). The Courier-Journal reports that residents living near the Louisville (Kentucky) International Airport are worried that making the airport a mega-hub for United Parcel Service will increase the already disturbing noise produced by aircraft. As Regional Airport Authority and Jefferson County officials revise the airport's noise-reduction plan, residents are preparing to voice their concerns.

LA Neighborhood Avoids Noisy Welding Facility (Mar. 6, 1998). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports MTA officials have abandoned plans to place a temporary welding facility and accompanying 16-foot-high sound walls in the Valley Village neighborhood.

"Best Practice" Flying Trials by British Airways Verifies Noise Reduction (Mar. 6, 1998). M2 Presswire issued a press release that reports trials held with British Airways 747-400 aircraft leaving Heathrow confirm that "best-practice" flying procedures during take-off produce the least possible disturbance to local communities.

Study Says More Planes Won't Mean More Noise at Denver's Airport (Mar. 6, 1998). The Rocky Mountain News reports changes in flight paths at Denver International Airport could ease noise problems for 90,000 people, according to a study released Wednesday. The study drew attention because it's the first time anyone has suggested so many people in the area are bothered by airport noise.

Sea-Tac and Schools Discuss Funding for Airport Noise Impact Studies (Mar. 5, 1998). The News Tribune reports the Highline School District of Seattle, Washington, whose schools encircle the airport, recently discussed the impact of airport noise on schools and funding for studies. At the meeting residents heard from Sea-Tac Airport director, Gina Marie Lindsey.

Highway Improvements and Sound Barriers to Reduce Noise in Montreal's East End (Mar. 5, 1998). The Gazette of Montreal, Quebec, reports the Quebec government announced a $35-million plan to improve the road system around Highway 25. Those improvements will make life quieter for thousands of residents of Montreal's east end, Mayor Pierre Bourque said yesterday.

Drilling Rig Proves Noisemaker and Nightmare for Las Vegas Family (Mar. 5, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports a Las Vegas family lost their peace and quiet and ability to sleep at night when a massive drilling rig set up operation in their backyard. The residents are frustrated with the response they've received from project officials. When the drilling stops, new wells will provide water for area golf courses.

More Traffic Causes Ohio Town to Consider Noise Barriers Along Interstate 75 (Mar. 4, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Union Township leaders are considering erecting noise barriers in anticipation of increased traffic along Interstate 75 near West Chester.

Missouri Residents Meet with Airport Authority about Noise Grievances (Mar. 3, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports of a meeting that took place last week between the St. Louis Airport Authority and area residents with noise grievances. The article details residents' concerns and an airport representative's responses.

Committee Created in Newport Beach to Deal with Noise Issues from Bayfront Restaurants (Feb. 26, 1998). The Orange County Register reports the Newport Beach, California, City Council voted to create an ad hoc committee of council members, residents, and business representatives to take a closer look at how sound from bayfront restaurants affects residents. The new committee was created in the wake of the Council's handling of a recent noise controversy.

European Union Cracks Down On Noisy Garden Machinery (Feb. 25, 1998). The Daily Mail reports that noisy lawnmowers could soon be outlawed under a crackdown being considered by the EU. Garden machinery would have to be sold with a label showing how loud it is under plans being considered by the European Commission.

Hush House at San Antonio Airport Will Allow Jet Engine Tests Around the Clock (Feb. 20, 1998). The San Antonio Business Journal reports the San Antonio International Airport will complete a new engine run-up facility within two years which will allow companies to test their jets' engines 24 hours a day.

Sacramento Elementary School Wants Sound Wall; Neighborhood Activists Push (Feb. 19, 1998). The Sacramento Bee reports teachers, students and administrators at Babcock Elementary School are in favor a sound wall being built along the Capital City Freeway in Sacramento. The article outlines the process that will be undertaken to determine if a sound wall is feasible.

Vancouver To Build Sound Barrier For New Development (Feb. 19, 1998). The Vancouver Sun reports that planners will make use of a "sound wall" to shelter neighbors of a proposed sports center from noise.

Dallas Church Vows to Fight D/FW Over Buyout (Feb. 11, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports The Church in Irving blames the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport for its demise as a missionary training and conference center. Now the church, involved in a bitter dispute with the airport, contends the airport is obliged to buy out the 50,000-square-foot church.

Boston's Big Dig Attempts to Keep Noise Down (Jan. 25, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that in Boston the biggest public works project since the building the Great Pyramids continues while officials attempt to maintain a quality of life for residents. Known as the Big Dig, the project will ultimately create a complex of highways that will run through and under Boston, hopefully eliminating the city's infamous traffic congestion.

Cleveland Railroad Will Use Noise-Reduction Plan if Merger Approved (Jan. 23, 1998). The Plain Dealer of Cleveland, Ohio, reports that CSX Transportation's efforts to convince federal officials to approve a railroad merger, includes promises to enhance neighborhoods in Cleveland and East Cleveland, including re-routing some trains and implementing a noise-reduction plan.

Denver Developers Must Pay for Noise Wall (Jan. 23, 1998). The Rocky Mountain News of Denver, Colorado, reports that city officials refused to annually tax future residents of the Buell Mansion subdivision for a noise wall and other improvements. Instead, the developers, Perlmutter / Witkin Properties will have to foot the three million dollar bill.

Oil Rigs in Brentwood, CA Neighborhood Noisy and Unsightly (Jan. 23, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that residents in a section of southern Brentwood, California, are upset about the noise coming from oil drilling in their backyards.

CA Community Would Welcome Rail-Port and Plan for Noise Control (Jan. 22, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports that while Beaumont officials consider a major Union Pacific rail port for the east edge of the city, residents and officials alike debate the effects on the community. Most would welcome the economic impact while some are cautious about increased noise and traffic.

Kansas City Residents Want Park, Not Noisy Industry (Jan. 22, 1998). The Kansas City Star reports that residents of Coleman Highlands in Kansas City, Missouri, oppose a developer's plans to build a business in their quiet neighborhood. Concern about heavy traffic, noise, pollution and decreasing property values have prompted the group to ask the city to condemn the developer's property and turn it into a park.

Noise from Interstate Viaduct Disturbs Walnut Creek Residents (Jan. 22, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that residents of Walnut Creek, California, are being assaulted by loud noise inside their homes from a temporary viaduct on Interstate 680-Highway 24. Caltrans officials blame the noise on a loose-steel plate in an expansion joint

To Keep Noise Out, Walls to be Built in Annapolis Open Schools (Jan. 22, 1998). The Capital of Annapolis, Maryland, reports that the city's proposal to construct walls in 25 "open space" schools would cost $17 million and still may not eliminate noise.

California Resident Says 199 Roosters Too Loud; Seeks New Ordinance Yet Willing to Compromise (Jan. 21, 1998). The Press-Enterprise of Riverside, California, reports that a Pedley resident who planned to petition the Riverside County Board of Supervisors Tuesday seeking restriction on crowing fowl kept by residents in the unincorporated communities decided to delay action.

Maryland Residents Oppose Race Track on Noise and Traffic Grounds (Jan. 21, 1998). The Capital of Annapolis, Maryland, reports Middle River Racing officials failed to convince West County residents opposed to a proposed speedway that it would be a good neighbor.

Residents of Plano, Illinois, Say Proposed Raceway Will Ruin Quiet (Jan. 21, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that a citizens group who oppose a motor speedway that would be built in Kendall County has scheduled a meeting Monday to discuss its opposition to the proposal.

Sante Fe Sanctions Noisy Car Wash (Jan. 21, 1998). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports the city of Santa Fe has asked a state district judge to sanction the owner of the Santa Fe Car Wash. City officials contend that neighbors of the business suffer noise levels comparable to airplanes taking off at an airport.

Citizens' Group Unhappy with Noise from San Francisco Airport (Jan. 20, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports a new citizens' organization opposed to noise from San Francisco International Airport is urging Peninsula mayors to exert more pressure on the airport to be a quieter neighbor.

Mass. Residents Request Relief from Noise from 24-Hour Store (Jan. 20, 1998). The Telegram & Gazette of Worcester, Massachusetts, reports two residents in Ware, whose homes are close to a gas station, recently complained to selectmen of noise, bright lights and fumes that come from the 24-hour gas station and convenience store.

New Exit on Parkway Robs Lake Forest Residents of Sleep (Jan. 20, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that a truck route created by a new exit on Southern California's Interstate 5 has exposed residents in Foothill Ranch and Rancho Santa Margarita to high levels of noise that disrupts sleep.

Idaho Sprint Racers Request Permit for New Course after Noise Complaints (Jan. 19, 1998). The Lewiston Morning Tribune of Lewiston, Idaho, reports that Chapter One Racing is requesting a permit to build a new boat track after noise complaints from a few residents along the Snake River.

School May Relocate in Wake of New Runway at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport (Jan. 19, 1998). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Grapevine Middle School officials are discussing relocation, saying that a new runway at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport will bring noisy planes over the building.

Political Push for Maryland Racetrack Unlikely in Election Year (Jan. 18, 1998). The Baltimore Sun recently published an editorial about the questionable future of a 54,000-seat auto racetrack in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Convincing officials in an election year that auto racing should be part of their county's future may be difficult.

Spokane Area Lakes in Critical Condition, Poisoned by Noise, Pollution, Crowds (Jan. 18, 1998). The Spokesman-Review reports several lakes in the Spokane, Washington, area are critically polluted with silt, weeds, noise and overcrowding.

Utah Lawmakers Consider Mass Transit (Jan. 18, 1998). The Salt Lake Tribune reports that Utah lawmakers are beginning to consider mass transit systems for the state, but road work still dominates transportation policies.

Los Angeles Area Residents Speak About Leaf Blowers (Jan. 17, 1998). Los Angeles Times published the following letters to the editor concerning leaf blowers:

Mining Company Incompatible with Tennessee Residential Area (Jan. 14, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that a surface-mining operation has been deemed incompatible with the Millertown Pike area. Planning commissioners were not wooed by company's offer to make road improvements.

Sound Walls For Existing Illinois Roads Built at Community's Expense (Jan. 11, 1998). A Daily Herald article answered reader's questions about traffic problems and road construction, with one question referring to sound wall construction along current roads.

Soundproofing of California Homes Begins as Part of Program by FAA and Los Angeles International (California) Airport (Jan. 9, 1998). The Copley News Service reports that the first of 25,000 California residences surrounding Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) have been "soundproofed" as part of a program funded by the Federal Aviation Administration and LAX. The soundproofing program is taking place in Los Angeles and three surrounding California cities, could cost $500 million and take five to seven years to complete. While residents say that the soundproofing, which includes installing airtight doors and double insulated windows, helps, it doesn't eliminate the noise from jets flying overhead.

Rowlett, Texas Seeks Solution To Noise Dispute with Industrial Park (Jan. 9, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that city officials said they may soon have a solution to the ongoing dispute over noise between southwest Rowlett, Texas neighborhoods and nearby businesses. According to the article, residents of Dexham Estates and Ridgecrest have complained for several years about noise coming from Tolar Industrial Park near Dexham Road and State Highway 66. Although the City Council passed a noise ordinance in January 1997 in response to the complaints, homeowners have said that they have seen little decrease in the noise levels. Possible solutions being discussed include building a sound wall, buying sound measuring equipment, and soundproofing homes, and lowering the decibel levels allowed in the ordinance.

Man's Quiet Leaf Blower Impresses Gardeners Striking Over Ban in Los Angeles, California (Jan. 8, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that an auto mechanic who lives in Van Nuys, California put together a leaf blower that is ultra-quiet and easily built with standard auto parts. The blower may have an influence on the controversial ban on gas-fueled leaf blowers that is proposed.

Progress Made in Two Year Dispute Over Waldwick, New Jersey Firing Range (Jan. 8, 1998). The Record reports that Waldwick, New Jersey officials are seeking architectural plans and cost estimates for enclosing an outdoor gun range that has been the target of a lawsuit by residents in neighboring Allendale, New Jersey. The article reports that Mayor Rick Vander Wende said the borough plans to hire an architect to look at several ways the Capt. George H. Bunning Police Training Facility could be enclosed, diminishing the gunfire noise Allendale residents have said disrupts their peace.

Quieter Helicopters at the Grand Canyon May Help Meet Noise Restrictions (Jan. 7, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that National Park Service officials recently held a news conference to unveil what they hope will put an end to one of the most vexing environmental problems at the Grand Canyon in recent years. Officials are hopeful that the use of the Boeing MD-900 helicopter will enable them to maintain a viable air-tour industry while abiding by a federal law mandating the natural quiet of the Grand Canyon and other national parks. The Boeing MD-900 helicopter produces 73 decibels, compared with the average tour helicopter's 85.

Tolerance of Dallas Residents Vary with Noise Sources (Jan. 6, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that today it is highly unlikely you live without being exposed to somebody else's noise. It may just be the muffled roar of traffic or music from the house next door. Or it may be wailing sirens, the thunder of a passing plane, the muffled roar of traffic.

Committee Seeks Creative Ways to End Noise on Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Street (Jan. 6, 1998). The Vancouver Sun reports that the Clinton Neighborhood Committee which is lobbying to reduce the noise and traffic on First Avenue in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada will hold a meeting Friday night to show city, regional and provincial politicians just how serious the problem is. The meeting will also discuss solutions to the noise problems.

Louisiana Residents Worry Over Highway Noise Barriers (Jan. 4, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports that officials in New Orleans Louisiana are preparing to widen highway I-10. Neighbors worry over the increased noise of the larger road.

Grand Canyon Park Service To Unveil Quiet Technology Helicopter (Jan. 2, 1998). U.S. Newswire issued the following press release concerning the dedication of quiet technology helicopters at the Grand Canyon National Park:

Nevada Community Considers Plans To Reduce Highway Noise (Dec. 31, 1997). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that a recent agreement passed in Henderson, Nevada will reduce highway noise.

Runway Expansion At Florida Airport Worries Neighbors (Dec. 31, 1997). The Palm Beach Post reports that Palm Beach residents are skeptical about a proposal to extend the runway at Palm Beach International Airport(PBIA). Officials say the extended runway will reduce noise. Residents disagree.

New Jersey Residents Complain About Noise From Parkway Expansion Project (Dec. 30, 1997). The Asbury Park Press reports that expansion work at the Garden State Parkway toll plaza is under way, despite concerns raised by residents living nearby about noise pollution.

New Yorkers Number 1 Quality Of Life Complaint Is Noise (Dec. 29, 1997). The Daily News reports that New York City is doing little to reduce noise pollution even though noise is New Yorkers' No.1 quality of life issue.

Soundproofing In Cleveland Area Homes Goes Sour (Dec. 27, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that efforts by the city of Cleveland to soundproof homes in the Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport area have gone sour.

Chicago Area School Sues City For Soundproofing From Airport Noise (Dec. 25, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that The Chicago Department of Aviation and the Immaculate Conception School in Elmhurst are struggling through a lawsuit over soundproofing for the school.

Florida Kennels Struggles To Make Peace With Neighbors (Dec. 24, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune describes how the number of dogs and the noise of their barking increases dramatically during holidays disturbing the neighborhood of one Florida kennel.

National Parks Prepare New Transportation Plans For Visitors (Dec. 23, 1997). National Public Radio reports that Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt has announced a plan to reduce the use of cars in America's National Parks.

Chicago Area High School Presses City For Soundproofing From Airport Noise (Dec. 19, 1997). Chicago Daily Herald reports that Immaculate Conception High School's hopes of getting Chicago to pay more for airplane soundproofing are growing a bit brighter.

California Communities Oppose Railroad Expansion (Dec. 18, 1997). The Orange County Register reports that trains are expected to rumble and roar through Placentia California in increasingly hefty numbers in the next 10 to 15 years. Their numbers may jump from about 40 trains a day to as many as 150 trains daily along the Orangethorpe Avenue corridor.

Florida Community Studies Amphitheater Proposal (Dec. 18, 1997). The Florida Times-Union reports that officials in Jacksonville, Florida said a new sound study has raised questions that are forcing them to rethink plans for building a 17,000-seat amphitheater in Metropolitan Park.

California Company Develops Quieter Leaf Blower (Dec. 13, 1997). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Metallic Power Inc. is developing technology for quieter leaf blowers.

Noisy Houses And How To Fix Them (Dec. 13, 1997). The Seattle Times printed an article about real estate construction and noise transmission.

California's Oakland Airport Preparing to Expand (Dec. 12, 1997). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that the Oakland (California) International Airport will undergo a $600 million expansion intended to capture 50 percent more passengers within three years and to triple cargo traffic by 2010, port and city officials said yesterday.

Michigan Town Wants To Stop Sporting Clay Shooting (Dec. 12, 1997). The Milwaukee Journal reports that town officials of Eagle, Michigan have asked the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to halt shooting of clay pigeons at the McMiller Sports Center.

Wisconsin Residents Complain About Noise From Shooting Clay Range (Dec. 8, 1997). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that a public hearing will be held Wednesday by the Eagle (Wisconsin) Town Board on a request of Wern Valley Inc. for another conditional use permit to allow sporting clay shooting at the McMiller Sports Center.

Cleveland Officials Express Frustration Over Airport Expansion Project at Conference in Philadelphia (Dec. 7, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland (Ohio) City Councilmen Edward W. Rybka and Michael Dolan came to the 1997 National League of Cities conference to pick up new governing ideas that would energize them for the year ahead and expressed frustration over delays in expanding the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

Park Service To Fly Quieter Helicopters Over Grand Canyon (Dec. 5, 1997). The Helicopter News reports that the U.S. National Park Service will lease a state of the art quiet-technology helicopter for use over the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.

Innovative San Diego Wastewater Treatment Facility Reduces Construction Noise By Careful Scheduling (Dec.1 1997). American City and County reports that the San Diego, California Wastewater Department purchased and set aside a pristine habitat covering 30 acres. Impacts like traffic and noise were addressed by limiting construction hours, employee work hours and delivery times.

Monte Carlo Rally Held for Electric Vehicles (Nov. 29, 1997). The Daily Telegraph printed a column reporting on the third Monte Carlo Rally for Electric Vehicles, the FIA Solar Cup, held near the village of Gorbio, Monaco.

Study Finds That Speed Bumps to Slow Traffic in Britain's Villages Result in More Noise (Nov. 29, 1997). The Daily Telegraph reports that a British government study published in Traffic Engineering & Control magazine has found that vehicles driving over speed bumps in Britain's villages are so noisy they are annoying thousands of British residents. In many cases, the article says, the increased noise from the speed bumps is outweighing the benefit of quieter roads gained by reducing the speed of traffic. The study found that trucks are responsible for much of the louder noise, the article says.

Grand Canyon Raft Outfitters Agree to Quieter Boat Motors (Nov. 19, 1997). The Orange County Register reports that commercial river-rafting outfitters in Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park have agreed to convert their fleets of rafts to low-noise, low-emission outboards by 2001. The outfitters' announcement came in response to a growing call to quiet the noisy boats by the Park Service in response to the federal government's directive to restore "natural quiet" to the park. Meanwhile, conservation group members said the outfitters recognized they have little choice but to abandon the noisier outboard motors.

Cost to Fix San Francisco's New Whining Streetcars Could be $1 Million Per Car (Nov. 18, 1997). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that officials from San Francisco's Municipal Railway said yesterday that the only remaining option to fix the whining noise and shaking caused by new Breda streetcars is a repair that could cost as much as $1 million a car.

Illinois Cogeneration Facility May Close Due To Noise (Nov. 18, 1997). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a decision is expected today on whether Elgin Area Unit School District 46 in Elgin, Illinois can continue to operate its power plant next to Bartlett High School. The cogeneration facility saves the school about $1,000 per day on electricity bills, but also creates noise.

Schools in North Carolina Get Acoustical Panels to Quiet Sound in Band Rooms (Nov. 11, 1997). The Morning Star reports that the Board of Education Monday approved the installation of acoustical panels in the band rooms of seven schools in Brunswick County, North Carolina. The panels will help suppress noise for students in classrooms near the band rooms, and also will reduce the noise inside the band rooms, the article says.

"Pink" Noise Will Be Piped In At American Stores Tower In Salt Lake City (Nov. 2, 1997). An extensive article appears in The Salt Lake Tribune about the impact 1,900 executive employees will make on downtown when they move into the American Stores high-rise tower in Salt Lake City, Utah, in January. Some downtown merchants see this major consolidation of company operations as having a positive impact on the downtown with increased shopping and spending. Business experts see this new conglomerate headquarters designed with its employees in mind as the wave of the future. The Salt Lake Tribune describes in detail the architectural design of the tower that accommodates such a large number of executives. One issue taken into consideration is blocking noise made by employees who work side-by-side in cubicles. "We've tried very hard to design a pleasant place where people want to come to work," American Stores engineer, Pete Bratsos explains.

Florida Residents Object to Dog Kennel, Fearing Noise and Stench (Oct. 30, 1997). The St. Petersburg Times reports that residents of Stonehedge on the Hill in Tarpon Springs, Florida, are upset about the possibility of a dog kennel opening in a building north of their mobile park. Previously, this building housed a fish-packing plant that that caused residents to complain of a foul odor. Next the building housed a nightclub that residents say blared music until all hours of the night.

Foundry in New Mexico Ordered to Cease Noisy Outside Work (Oct. 30, 1997). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that neighbors of a foundry won a partial victory in their pursuit of peace and quiet . For the past five years, neighbors have complained about the noises coming from the Shidoni foundry in Tesuque, New Mexico. The foundry is located in a primarily residential area. On Tuesday night, David Dougherty, whose property borders Shidoni's, and other unhappy neighbors, won their noise battle. The city-county Extraterritorial Zoning Authority upheld an earlier ruling banning the foundry from working on its sculptures outdoors.

Sunjet Planes too Loud for Long Beach, California; Flights Suspended Until Quieter Planes (Oct. 30, 1997). The Seattle Times reports that Sunjet, a public charter airline operated by World Technology System of Atlanta, is suspending flights between Seattle and Long Beach, California, tomorrow because its airplanes don't meet noise regulations in the city of Long Beach. Service will be reinstated when Sunjet can get three aircraft that can operate within the local noise ordinance, Sunjet spokesman Hank Ernest said.

Virginia Residents Move to Limit Construction Noise (Oct. 30, 1997). The Washington Post reports that Fairfax County, Virginia is considering enforcing weekend and evening restrictions on construction-related noise, due to a surge of building in older, established neighborhoods.

Not a Good Idea to Overturn the Los Angeles Warner Center Plan (Oct. 29, 1997). The California Daily News of Los Angeles (Valley Edition) recently printed an editorial expressing its views on a decision by a state court of appeal to overturn the Warner Center Specific Plan. Noise pollution at the schools is an issue. Herein follows the editorial:

United Airlines Offers Quieter Flights In First and Business Class (Oct. 29, 1997). The Dayton Daily News of Dayton, Ohio, reports that United Airlines is installing an electronic noise signal to the headset at each seat in the first- and business-class sections of its 747, 767 and 777 widebodied jets. This new electronic feature should cancel out the noise from the airplane.

Minnesota Noise Wall Divides Residents (Oct. 28, 1997). The Star Tribune of Minneapolis, Minnesota, reports that West Richfield residents will lose their view of Woodlake Nature Center in order to block the noise from Interstate Hwy. 35W.

The International Union of Railway's Action Plan Includes Quieter Passenger Trains (Oct. 28, 1997). M2 Presswire published a press release from The International Union of Railway (UIC) announcing its Action Plan for the 21st Century in Europe. The UIC plans to focus on increasing freight business and satisfying its rail passengers with lower noise levels among other accommodations.

Washington State District Strives for a Sound Environment for Education Near Airport (Oct. 28, 1997). The Seattle Times reported that officials for the Highline School District of Burien, Washington, met yesterday with a public-relations firm to figure out how to deal with noise problems caused by air traffic at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Pennsylvania Should Build Sound Barrier for Residents, Says Representative Murphy (Oct. 26, 1997). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, reports that Democratic state representative Tim Murphy said that the state of Pennsylvania should pay $750,000 for a sound barrier to keep noise from Interstate 279 away from 22 houses in Green Tree.

United Airlines Installs Headsets That Decrease Flight Noise (Oct. 26, 1997). The Houston Chronicle reports that starting this month, first-class and business-class passengers on United Airlines' international flights will be able to reduce flight noise with special anti-noise headsets. The airline is the first to purchase and install headsets with the technology, which creates sound waves that cancel out sound waves from the engine.

Car Companies Develop Electric Cars that Use Gasoline (Oct. 25, 1997). CNN reports that car companies are developing a technology in which electric cars can run on gasoline. The technology would allow vehicle owners to gas up at gas stations, but their cars would emit less pollution, no noise, and would get better mileage. In related news, Honda announced this week that it has developed a new, ultra-clean gas engine that will make electric cars unnecessary.

Airport Noise Abatement Information Made Available on the Internet (Oct. 21, 1997). The publication Airports reports that BCS International of Costa Mesa, California has upgraded its Bridge Reports decision support software for managing noise abatement programs to allow airports to provide access to noise abatement programs over the Internet. The article says that according to the company, reports, data, and graphics can be displayed on an airport's website or e-mailed in response to an individual request.

British Residents Seek Solutions to Deal with Noisy Neighbors (Oct. 19, 1997). The Sunday Times reports that due to poorly regulated residential property conversions in England in the 1960s, many people find themselves in the situation of being disturbed by the relatively quiet activities of their neighbors. The article goes on to interview several residents with problems, and to suggest measures that can dampen noise.

Soundproofing Measures Exist for Insulation Against Neighbor Noise (Oct. 19, 1997). The Independent reports that according to the World Health Organization, noise is probably the most widespread of pollutants in Great Britain, and noise from neighbors seems to be the most common environmental complaint. The article notes that there were 164,000 noise complaints to local authorities during 1995-96, an increase of 24% over the previous year, according to figures released by the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health. The article goes on to discuss technical solutions to mitigating noise from neighbors.

Czech Recycled Noise Barrier Manufacturer Secures Contracts with Sweden, Possibly Germany (Oct. 17, 1997). CTK Business News Wire reports that Bohemiaelast, a Czech producer of noise barriers made from recycled tires, has secured contracts with Sweden and currently is holding talks with the German area of Saxony, according to Zdenek Bohdanecky of Bohemiaelast.

Florida School Teacher Lobbies to Get Walls Built to Divide Open Classrooms (Oct. 15, 1997). The Florida Times-Union reports that Jackson Lanehart, a teacher at the Mayport (Florida) Middle School, has been trying since 1977 to get walls added to the open classrooms in the school, arguing that the background noise is distracting to students. Last week the Duval County School Board voted in favor of the improvements, but funding has not yet been found for the project, the article says.

Dallas Residents Say Noise Will Increase as Love Field Restrictions Eased (Oct. 9, 1997). The Dallas Morning News of Dallas, Texas, reports that residents who neighbor Love Field believe the noise they've learned to live with will increase as restrictions put in place by the Wright amendment are relaxed in other states.

Delta Arrives at New York Airport with Hush Kits for 737's (Oct. 6, 1997). The Long Island Business News reports that on Oct 1 Delta Express (Atlanta) began service at MacArthur Airport in Islip, New York with 737's equipped with hush kits. Aircraft noise has been an issue for a long time at MacArthur. Although officials believe the facility will become a thriving regional airport, MacArthur's service to limited destinations still forces many travelers to utilize JFK or LaGuardia airports.

Researchers Develop Ways to Reduce the Sound of Supersonic Jets (Oct. 6, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that University of California at Irvine has been studying ways to reduce noise from supersonic jets for four years, with the assistance of NASA funds. NASA will give the researchers lab space in Virginia for larger experiments in February.

BBC Gives Out Cough Drops with Quiet Wrappers at Live Radio Broadcasts (Sep. 28, 1997). Weekend Sunday (NPR) reports in a radio broadcast that BBC Radio in London is distributing cough drops in quiet wrappers to audience members at its live classical music radio broadcasts, in an attempt to cut down on the background noise during the concerts. The broadcast goes on to interview James Pestell, the head of marketing for BBC Radio 3, the country's classical music station from the BBC.

Canadian Airline Fleets Start to Install Hush Kits to Meet New International Noise Regulations (Sep. 18, 1997). The Financial Post reports that Canadian airline fleets have started to install hush kits in their older, noisier planes in order to meet new international noise restrictions. The article goes on to describe the noise regulations and hush kits, and to discuss which Canadian airlines are installing the kits.

Washington School District Gets Grant for Pilot Project to Reduce Aircraft Noise (Sep. 18, 1997). PR Newswire released a press release that reports the Washington Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) will provide a grant of $165,000 to the Highline School District in Olympia, Washington for a pilot project to identify which schools could benefit from soundproofing to mitigate the impact of jet noise from the nearby airport. The money will allow the school district to begin the first phase of the pilot project, which will consist of surveying eight to twelve schools to determine which is the best candidate for an actual soundproofing project, the article says.

Bambardier Announces its New Personal Watercraft is Quieter (Sep. 17, 1997). Business Wire released a press release from Bombadier, a manufacturer of personal watercraft, that says all models of their Sea Doo watercraft and jet boats will have the D-Sea-Bel Noise Reduction System by model-year 1999.

Live Radio Show in Great Britain Offers Free Rustle-Free Cough Lozenges to Audience (Sep. 16, 1997). The Times Newspapers Limited reports that Great Britain's Radio 3 station is handing out rustle-free cough lozenges to audience members who attend their live recording concerts, in an attempt to reduce noise during the live broadcast. Many audience members take cough lozenges during the concerts to avoid coughing at the wrong moment, the article says. The rustle-free wrapping paper was developed by Grantham Manufacturing Ltd. in Lincolnshire and uses waxed paper, as well as a secret ingredient to reduce noise.

Seattle Natural Gas Company Installs Silencing Devices on Gas Pipeline to Reduce Noise (Sep. 16, 1997). The Seattle Times reports that Northwest Pipeline, a Seattle company that operates an underground natural gas pipeline, installed silencing devices on the pipeline last month to quiet sound waves resulting from compression of the gas at a station in Woodinville, Washington. Residents in the Bear Creek area had complained that the noise was constant and resembled a helicopter flying overhead. According to Grant Jensen, company spokesperson, the silencing project cost about $500,000 and should be a permanent fix.

Air Force and Auto Exhaust Systems Supplier Undertake Joint Project to Evaluate Sound Qualities (Sep. 14, 1997). The Dayton Daily News reports that the Armstrong Lab at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Arvin Industries, a major supplier of auto exhaust systems, recently signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) to undertake a two-year research project to develop a computer program that can evaluate sound qualities. The article says that Arvin Industries wants better ways to evaluate sound quality in and around automobiles, while the Air Force is interested in evaluating the impact of air-base noises on surrounding communities. A CRDA is a way that federal labs make government technology for commercial uses, the article notes.

Columnist Recommends Quiet Dishwashers (Sep. 13, 1997). The Tampa Tribune printed a question-and-answer column in which the writer answers a question about what noise-reduction features are available on new dishwashers. The columnist says the noise levels have been reduced to a whisper in the best models. He also tells readers how to get a buyer's guide of the quietest dishwashers.

United Airlines Will Reduce Noise Emissions of its Fleet Ahead of Schedule (Sep. 5, 1997). The Xinhua News Agency reports that United Airlines officials announced today that they will reduce noise emissions from the company's fleet by 25% more than federal aircraft noise standards require by the end of this year, according to a company press release. Company officials intend to replace many of the fleet's jets with new aircraft to achieve the goal.

Salvation Army in Boise Fights Order to Build Wall to Protect Neighbors From Noise (Aug. 31, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports that the Salvation Army in Boise, Idaho is fighting a directive from the city's Planning and Zoning Commission to build a 10-foot masonry wall at its State Street store to shield nieghbors from noise. The Salvation Army plans to take its case to the Boise City Council on Sept. 9, the article says.

Canadian Police Say Noisy Motorcycles Are Hard to Measure (Aug. 26, 1997). The Vancouver Sun printed a question-and-answer column in which the question of why motorcycles are allowed to be so noisy is addressed. According to Staff Sergeant Garnet Salmond of the Vancouver (British Columbia) police traffic section, motorcycle noise is difficult to measure.

Hearing Problems Are Increasing From Noise Pollution (Aug. 25, 1997). Newsweek reports that research has shown that excessive exposure to noise is one of the leading causes of hearing loss and ear damage, contrary to the popular belief that hearing loss is a natural process of aging. The article goes on to discuss the risks to hearing of noise pollution, the ways in which noise damages the ear, the levels at which noise is dangerous, and practical steps people can take to protect their ears.

Cordless Lawn Mowers Cut the Noise and Offer Other Benefits (Aug. 16, 1997). The Sacramento Bee printed a question-and-answer column regarding cordless lawn mowers. In response to a reader's question about the feasibility of buying and using a cordless mower, the columnist writes that for anyone with up to a half-acre lot, a cordless rechargeable lawn mower is the best option available for many reasons.

United Airlines Will Install Passenger Noise Cancellation Devices in its Fleet (Aug. 15, 1997). Airline Industry Information reports that United Airlines has announced it will install passenger integrated noise cancelling electronics and active-ready headsets in its First and Connoisseur Class seats. Installation of the devices will begin in the Fall of 1997 on the airline's 767-300 and 747-400 fleets, and is expected to be completed on all three of the airline's fleets by early 1999, the article says.

Study in Wisconsin Finds that Noise from Grooved Highway Pavement Can be Reduced (Aug. 8, 1997). M2 Presswire released a press release from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation that reports a new study has found that the whine caused by vehicles traveling over grooved highway pavement can be reduced by spacing the grooves or "tines" in a random pattern. The study was funded by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), and was conducted by Marquette University in cooperation with the Wisconsin Concrete Pavement Association and the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

New Technology for Stage 3 Aircraft Standards Completes FAA Certification (Aug. 4, 1997). Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that Raisbeck Commercial Air Group, Inc. of Seattle has completed Federal Aviation Administration certification of its noise abatement system for the Boeing 727-100. The new system allows planes to meet Stage 3 aircraft noise requirements without the use of hushkits, which till now were the only method available.

British Residents Campaign for Quiet Roads (Jul. 29, 1997). The Northern Echo of England reports that thousands of North-East families are faced with a summer noise nightmare due to road maintenance neglect. But financially strapped officials say they are battling just to keep the region's roads patched up, and they don't have any money over for "extras" like quiet materials, according to an AA report.

New Invention in Britain Could Silence Outdoor Noise (Jul. 29, 1997). The London Times reports that a British inventor, Selwyn Wright of Huddersfield University, said he has produced a device capable of blocking outdoor noise.

What's the Quietest Lawn Mower? (Jul. 26, 1997). The Times printed an editorial that outlines which lawn mowers that can be purchased in Britain are the noisiest and the quietest. It also discusses the noise restrictions on lawn mower use in Germany, and talks about the fact that the European Community is considering new noise regulations for mowers. The writer concludes by giving a ranking of the types of mowers from noisiest to quietest.

Residents Near Noisy Gas Pipeline in Washington Will Get Some Relief, Gas Company Says (Jul. 24, 1997). The Seattle Times reports that officials for Northwest Pipeline have announced they will install two large containers around an underground gas pipeline in order to muffle the constant thumping noise that has been disturbing residents in Duvall, Washington. The fix is expected to be installed by late August, the article says.

U.S. Postal Service Launches Program to Test Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers (Jul. 24, 1997). Business Wire reports through a press release that the U.S. Postal Service is launching a pilot program in North and South Carolina to test the use of battery-operated lawn mowers. The press release goes on to outline the project and to give data on the environmental impacts of switching to electric lawn mowers.

Why We Fill Our Lives with Constant Noise -- Some Spiritual and Psychological Explanations (Jul. 21, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that people tend to avoid silence. Several theories for why this is so include: humans are addicted to audible sensory input, we need noise to replace a lack of spiritual satisfaction, and sound can designate personal space

New Device Invented by British Company Could Help Stifle Aircraft Noise (Jul. 20, 1997). The Sunday Times reports that a new device invented by a British firm may help reduce aircraft noise experienced by people on the ground. The announcement comes in the midst of a fight to add another terminal to the Heathrow Airport in London, and opponents of the expansion believe the announcement is a red herring being used to divert attention from the issue.

Cincinnati Airport Gets New Aircraft Tracking System to Deal With Noise Complaints (Jul. 18, 1997). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that the Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport recently has installed a new $609,000 computer aircraft tracking system to deal with noise complaints. The system, called the Aircraft Operation Monitoring System (AOMS), has the ability to record the flight paths and flight numbers of every departure and landing, along with accompanying information

Illinois Airport Gets New Holding Apron Designed to Reduce Noise for Nearby Residents (Jul. 17, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that the construction has begun on a new holding apron at the Palwaukee Municipal Airport outside Chicago (Illinois), in order to reduce noise for residents from planes waiting to take off from the airport's main runway.

Company Releases New Anti-Noise Headset for Computer Use (Jun. 30, 1997). Newsday reports that Andrea Electronics, based in Long Island City, New York, has introduced a new anti-noise stereo headset for the computer market, the QuietWare 1000 PC stereo headset. According to the company, the product is the first in a new line of peripherals designed to enhance voice-driven PC and Internet applications. The article also reports that the new headset uses Andrea Anti-Noise Active Noise Cancellation microphone technology, and QuietWare Active Noise Reduction headphone technology.

FAA Says New Runway at New Orleans Airport Could be Built at an Angle to Reduce Noise Pollution; Residents Remain Unconvinced (Jun. 25, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that a new study by the Federal Aviation Administration shows that New Orleans International Airport could angle its proposed north-south runway away from neighborhoods in Kenner to reduce the noise impact, yet still handle enough traffic to make the project feasible. The FAA is using the New Orleans study to develop national standards for near-parallel runway alignment, which could help planners throughout the U.S. deal with problems to airport expansions, such as land availability and noise issues. Meanwhile, residents living in Kenner seemed unimpressed with the FAA's new idea, and said they still oppose a new runway.

New Waterfall Along Waterfront in Washington City Designed to Muffle Traffic Noise (Jun. 25, 1997). The Seattle Times reports that an 11- foot-high, man-made waterfall and stream will be added to the waterfront area in Kirkland, Washington as part of a condominium development. The waterfall project will form a new park, and has been designed to muffle traffic noise.

Ford Tests its New Cars for Squeaks and Rattles (Jun. 22, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that in its most recent pre-production review of the 1996 Taurus, Ford tested every car that came off the line for squeaks, rattles, and other noises. Ford's "squeak-and-rattle team" was made up of two engineers, two Ford College Graduate Program trainees, and two assembly plant workers, and their goal was to make every car completely silent.

Builders of Straw Houses and Buildings Say the Structures Insulate Against Noise (Jun. 18, 1997). The Baltimore Sun reports that builders constructing a farm utility building made of straw in Davidsonville, Maryland, in rural Anne Arundel County, say straw buildings have many advantages, one of which is insulation against noise.

House near Los Angeles Airport to be Used as Model of Soundproofing (Jun. 18, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Los Angeles Board of Airport Commissioners plans to buy a house at the end of a Los Angeles International Airport runway to use as a demonstration for its soundproofing program.

AST Computer Releases Two Noise-Reducing Personal Computers (Jun. 17, 1997). M2 Presswire issued a press release from AST Computer which says the company will release two new desktop PCs that use noise-reducing technology on noise from the hard disk and fan.

German Acoustic Designer Transforms Bothersome Noise Into "Pleasant Sounds" (Jun. 17, 1997). The Deutsche Presse-Agentur reports that Axel Rudolph, an acoustic designer in Cologne, Germany, designs sound systems that change irksome noise into sounds that people prefer to hear. According to Rudolph, noise profoundly influences people's feelings, but the field of acoustic design is in its early stages. The article goes on to outline some of Rudoph's projects and other applications for acoustic design.

Chicago and Suburban Group Both Test Aircraft Noise (Jun. 12, 1997). National Public Radio reports that the city of Chicago and the suburbs that surround O'Hare International Airport have both unveiled high-tech equipment to determine how loud the airport really is. Although both parties, which have been fighting about airport noise for years, originally agreed to share their independent noise data, that agreement has broken down.

Scientists to Test Anti-Noise Device in Jet Engine (Jun. 10, 1997). The London Times reports that a British company, Cambridge Concept, has produced an anti-noise device, nicknamed the jetoblaster, that is designed to cancel noise from jet engines. The device will undergo ground trials at London's Heathrow Airport, run jointly by Heathrow airport operator BAA, British Airways, and the Department of Trade. If the ground trials are successful, plans are to design a smaller unit to install on jets.

Hearing Organizations Criticize Federal Mining Regulatory Agency's Proposed New Occupational Noise Standards (Jun. 9, 1997). The Occupational Health & Safety Letter reports that the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has proposed new standards for occupational noise exposure in mines, but a coalition of prominent hearing-conservation organizations have said that the standards do not go far enough to protect miners' hearing.

Engineers Design Massachusetts Hospital Over Train Tracks (Jun. 9, 1997). The Engineering News-Record reports that a project is underway to build $232-million, 730,000-sq-ft medical center in Worcester, Massachusetts on top of rail tracks. The article reports that engineers have coped with the problem by designing ways for the noise and vibrations to be absorbed, so that patients, operations, and sensitive equipment are protected. The article goes on to outline the engineering details of the project.

Leaf Blower Manufacturer Attempts to Make Gas-Powered Model Quieter (Jun.1 1997). The publication Appliance Manufacturer reports that Echo, Inc., a leaf blower manufacturer, has produced a new gas-powered leaf blower designed to reduce noise. The article notes that noise from leaf blowers is under attack across the country, and that hundreds of municipalities have enacted bylaws restricting or banning the blowers. The article goes on to describe the technology used in the new Echo blower.

NoiseBuster Extreme Headphone System Gets Good Review (Jun.1 1997). PC World printed a review of the $69 NoiseBuster Extreme stereo headphone noise-canceling system, and rated in favorably, especially for its price.

Limits on Snowmobiles in Yellowstone Are Unavoidable (May 8, 1997). The Idaho Falls Post Register printed an editorial that explores the issue of how many snowmobiles should be allowed in Yellowstone National Park and its six adjacent national forests in order to avoid conflicts with wildlife and other recreational users and damage to natural resources. The editorial writer says that the scientific answer to the question is fairly straightforward, but a political solution acceptable to everyone is not so easy.

Noise Impact Study Delays Massive Highway Project in Louisiana (May 3, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that a project to widen Interstate 10 around New Orleans and East Jefferson, Louisiana would require concrete walls as high as 30 feet to muffle traffic noise, according to a recent study. This news has sent state highway officials scrambling to revise their plans and has delayed the work on the project, the article says.

"Hush House" Is the Latest Noise Mitigation Measure at Chicago's O'Hare Airport (May 2, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that in order to mitigate noise from nighttime aircraft engine maintenance tests at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, a "hush house," or a Ground Run-Up Enclosure, has been built to muffle the noise at the north end of the airport. The enclosure is the first one built at a commercial airport in the U.S.

Japanese Rail Firms Agree to Take Steps to Cut Noise (May 1, 1997). The Daily Yomiuri reports that the operators of two railway lines connecting downtown Osaka, Japan and the Kansai International Airport have agreed to introduce noise-reduction measures this year, in response to complaints about increased noise.

Noisy New York Car Alarms May Become Illegal To Sell Or Buy (Apr. 28, 1997). Newsday reports that City Councilmen Anthony Weiner (Brooklyn) and A. Gifford Miller (Manhattan) have proposed a bill that would declare the sale or installation of noisy car alarms in the city to be illegal. Under the new legislation, cars that are built with alarms in the factory would still be permitted however. Miller states he wishes he could ban all audible alarms, but that would prove an unconstitutional action against interstate commerce. If the law is passed, first violations by installers or sellers will cost them $500 to $1,000, second violations will cost $1,000 to $2,500, and subsequent violations up to $5,000.

Researchers Work on Furniture That Cancels Out Neighborhood Noise (Apr. 28, 1997). The Singapore Straits Times reports that an article in the Sunday Times says researchers are now applying the latest theories on active sound control to armchairs and beds, which they hope will be able to shut out noise from loud neighbors.

Technology Fights Noise With... More Noise (Apr. 28, 1997). Singapore Straights Times reports that according to the London Sunday Times, that scientists and researchers are utilizing the latest theories on sound waves to produce armchairs and beds that can quiet outside noise. Speakers are incorporated within the furniture to emit an opposing tone which neutralizes the outside noise. The speakers simultaneously play back mirror images of outside noises, canceling out the outside noises. This active sound control has been successfully used in cars, aircraft and ventilation fans.

Technological Solutions to Noise (Apr. 23, 1997). ABC World News This Morning correspondent Jack Smith reports on two new technologies designed to reduce noise, one for the listener, one for the producer.

British University Studies Sound to Fight Noise Problems (Apr. 21, 1997). M2 Presswire reports in a press release that for several years, researchers at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research at Great Britain's University of Southampton have been investigating the potential of active sound control in reducing the effect of noise transmitted from one room to another in buildings. The press release says that active sound control is the cancellation of an unwanted sound wave with another soundwave, usually generated by a loudspeaker. The press release says that the scientists' work on active sound control is one of the features of an exhibition opening at the Science Museum in London on Thursday, April 24, titled "Noise?" The exhibition runs until July 27, and coincides with both International Noise Awareness Day on April 30, and National Noise Awareness Day on July 23.

Noise Museum Exhibition Opens in London (Apr. 21, 1997). M2 Presswire reports in a press release that there will be an exhibition titled "Noise?" will open at the Science Museum in London on April 24, and will run till July 27. One of the features of the exhibition is research currently underway at the University of Southampton on active sound control, which is cancellation of an unwanted sound wave with another sound wave generated by a loudspeaker. The press release says that the exhibition is aimed at a general and family audience and explores many other interesting areas of noise research, including the production of quieter road surfaces and noise tags to monitor an individual's exposure to noise levels.

Technology May Solve Chicago, O'Hare Expansion Issue (Apr. 21, 1997). According to a study by United Airlines, technological and procedural changes at O'Hare International Airport could increase the airports flight capacity by 15% to 20%, Crain's Chicago Business reports. The changes could eliminate the need for a new runway and a third regional airport.

University of Southampton Researchers Fight Noise With Soundwaves (Apr. 21, 1997). 'Noise?', an exhibition being held at the Science Museum in London, will feature sound cancellation technologies from the University of Southampton's Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, the M2 Presswire reports.

Canadian Officials Consider Placing Highway Through a Vancouver Park Underground (Apr. 12, 1997). The Vancouver Sun reports that Canadian officials are considering placing a highway that runs through Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia underground to lower noise levels and reduce air pollution in the park.

Writer Reviews New Noise-Reduction Headphones on Airplane (Apr. 11, 1997). The Buffalo News printed a review of the new noise-canceling stereo headphones (QZ/2000), manufactured by Koss Corporation. The stereophones were tested on an airplane, and the writer reported good results from the equipment.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Commission Committee Approves Regulations to Ensure Healthy Indoor Air After Homes Are Insulated Against Noise (Apr. 9, 1997). The Star Tribune reports that the planning and environment committee of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), the agency which oversees the Minneapolis-St. Paul (Minnesota) International Airport, approved changes Tuesday in its noise insulation program to ensure that homes have healthy indoor air after they are insulated. The changes will require homeowners to add exhaust fans or take other corrective measures before insulation is installed if their homes have air quality problems. The proposed changes to the program will go to the full commission for approval on April 21.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Commission Considers Plan to Require Homeowners to Correct Air Quality Problems Before Homes Are Insulated (Apr. 8, 1997). The Star Tribune reports that the Planning and Environment Committee of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which oversees the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, will consider today a plan recommended by staff to require homeowners to pay for improvements to the air quality systems in their homes before insulation is installed to reduce jet noise. If the committee approves the recommendations, they will be taken up by the full commission on April 21.

Are Corporate Helicopters Coming of Age? (Feb.1 1997). Business & Commercial Aviation reports that the corporate helicopter market experienced a fair-sized expansion in 1996, and industry leaders are positive about the future of the market. The article mentions that noise problems continue to be the largest problem for heliport expansions.

Product Preview for Noise-Canceling Pilot Headset (Feb.1 1997). Business & Commercial Aviation reports that the latest active noise-canceling headset for fixed-wing and helicopter pilots is available from the David Clark Company.

American Entertainment Introduces Young Audiences To Hearing Damage (Sep. 25, 1996). The Pacific Sun reports that digital technology has enabled movie producers and rock bands alike to increase the quality of sound their entertainment provides, but it has also inspired them to increase the volume as well. The government has no regulation regarding the sound level of movie or musical entertainment, and the affect of excessive noise on the human ear is usually not the priority of movie producers, movie-goers, rock bands, or rock fans. According to the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association, 10 million Americans suffer from noise-induced hearing loss and 20 million are exposed to potentially damaging noise levels. Hearing loss has increased by 14% since 1971. Preventative and protective measures are just starting to be taken.

Chicago Suburb Bans Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers (Sep.1 1996). Conscious Choice reports that the Chicago suburb of Evanston has recently passed strict regulations against gas-powered leaf blowers. As of August 1, 1996, use of gas-powered leaf blowers is banned between May 15 and September 30. The blowers may be used only between April 1 and May 14 and between October 1 and December 15. Furthermore, the city council prohibits the blowers be used before 7 a.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. on weekends. The blowers can reach a decibel reading as high as 90 or 100.

Preventative and Protective Measures Needed Against Hearing Damage and Loss (Jun.1 1996). Electronic Musician reports that hearing damage and hearing loss can happen to young and elderly people alike. Hearing damage is permanent, yet usually preventable, provided that you are aware of how to protect your ears. Visiting a trained audiologist and using the proper ear protection can help prevent hearing damage, or help prevent further damage if some has already occurred. Musicians, their assistants, and anyone else exposed to repetitively loud noises need to take special precaution.

The Elimination of Government Agencies to Regulate Noise Pollution Leaves Citizens Unprotected (Sep.1 1990). "Proper functioning of the ear is vital to our well-being," according to an article in Utne Reader by Mary Morse. This article questions the wisdom of the elimination of noise regulations in a time of increasing health and environmental consciousness. After reaching its peak in the 1970s, the "hot new topic of noise pollution" fell to the Reagan administration's funding cuts for watchdog programs deemed "over-regulatory and anti-business." Citing statistics about the large group of Americans bombarded by dangerous noise levels at work and at home, this article promotes self-protection and makes a call for the resurrection of funding for watchdog agencies to regulate safe noise levels.


Other Indexes

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
Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
Watercraft Noise
Workplace Noise

Chronological Index
Geographical Index

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