1990: Sep
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1998: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov
1999: Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
2000: Jan Feb Mar Apr
Carmelite Nuns Ask for Noise Buffer from New Roads; Texas Town Says Wall Too Expensive. 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.
City in Scotland Publishes Guide for Residents with Noise Problems. The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports the City Council of Aberdeen, Scotland, is addressing the growing noise pollution problem by publishing noise reduction guidelines for residents.
Cleveland's City Council Asks FAA to Follow Through on Home Insulation Despite New Noise Exposure Map. 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. 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.
Leaf Blower Bill to Overturn Local Controls Gets Approval in California Assembly. The United Press International reports legislation to overturn local controls on leaf blowers has been narrowly approved by the California Assembly's Local Government Committee.
Letter Says the FAA Fails to Protect Citizens' Interests in Expansion of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The Plain Dealer published the following letter from Matthew Englehart of Olmsted Falls, Ohio. In his letter, Englehart questions the employment of the firm hired to study the impact of expansion of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Englehart also criticizes the FAA for failing to provide checks and balances for airport planners. Mr. Englehart writes:
Residents Object to University Soccer Stadium in St. Paul Neighborhood. The Star Tribune reports plans by the University of Minnesota to build a women's soccer stadium on its St. Paul campus have nearby residents and some local officials upset. They say it's inappropriate to build a soccer stadium in a residential neighborhood because of the noise, traffic and parking problems it will cause.
Sounds of Silence Rare in North Lincolnshire, England; Noise Complaints Increase. The Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph reports complaints about noise pollution are on the rise in the English towns of North Lincolnshire. But the Health and Public Protection Committee can help residents bothered by noise.
Firefighter Landlords in England Protest Station Noise. The Evening Post (Wellington) reports in England two firemen are complaining that the station where they work is too noisy for tenants in apartments next door. The two firemen happen to also be the landlords of the adjacent apartments.
Noise Pollution is a Growing Problem in United Kingdom. The Sentinel reports that noise pollution is a growing problem in the Newcastle area in the United Kingdom, and residents are becoming more aware of their rights to have a peaceful life. The article goes on to detail the noise problems of two residents in the Stoke area, and to detail how officials at the Newcastle Borough Council advise people to deal with noise problems.
Proposed Settlement Fair in Tennessee's Memphis Airport Case, Editorial Says. The Commercial Appeal published the following editorial contending that the settlement proposed by the Tennessee's Memphis/Shelby County Airport Authority to resolve a class-action lawsuit filed by homeowners is "fair and reasonable." The editorial says:
San Francisco Supervisor Proposes Entertainment District after Residents Make Noise Complaints. 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. 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. 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:
English Town Promotes Noise Awareness Day with Education. The Herald Express reports the Council in Teignbridge, England, went into action to spotlight Noise Awareness Day launched by the National Society for Clean Air.
Residents Protest Expansion at Washington's Boeing Field; They Say Noise Rattles Windows Now. The Seattle Times reports at a council meeting yesterday, residents in Washington's South Seattle neighborhoods protested a plan that would increase air traffic at Boeing Field and move the airport's runway closer to their neighborhoods.
Scientists at University of Texas Devise Design Improvement for Noise Walls. 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.
Busch Gardens Will Build Noise Walls After Residents Complain of Incessant Screaming from Fans on Popular Roller Coaster. 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.
ElToro Airport Activists Network with Anti-Airport Groups Worldwide for Support and Lessons. The Los Angeles Times reports that those fighting El Toro Airport in Orange County, California have found allies over the Internet in the U.K., South Africa, and Australia who are fighting the same airport problems.
Monitors Track Noise But Don't Reduce Noise from BWI Airport, Residents Say. The Capital reports the Mary land Aviation Administration monitors noise daily from BWI Airport to make sure aircraft stay within the allowed noise levels. Residents commend them for these noise abatement measures, but they say it does nothing to reduce the amount of noise they are exposed to.
Pilots' Union Objects to Takeoffs Proposed at El Toro Airport; They Say Safety Risks Outweigh Noise Concerns. The Orange County Register reports the Air Line Pilots Association this week released its response to two Orange County, California, safety studies of El Toro Airport's takeoffs.
Pilots Union Suggests Alternative Runway Plan for Proposed El Toro Airport in California. The Orange County Register reports that members of the Air Line Pilots Association, the nation's largest pilots union, believe if a proposed commercial airport is built at the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station near Irvine, California, county officials should build two new runways to address potential safety problems. The association suggested that the existing north/south runway should be used for landings, and the proposed southeast/northwest runways should be used for takeoffs. Meanwhile, county officials called the proposal unreasonable because it would create new noise problems over at least a dozen cities.
Residents in Babylon, NY, Oppose Expansion of Republic Airport, Fearing Increased Noise and Property Devaluation. Newsday reports Babylon, New York, residents oppose expansion of Republic Airport, saying more runways mean larger planes and more noise, along with more pollution, property devaluation and the higher probability of accidents.
Residents of Rural LA County Say Peace and Quiet Ruined by Hunt Club; They Will Appeal Club's Permit and Seek Legal Action if Necessary. The Los Angeles Times reports that neighbors of ranch land that is being used for "bird shoots" by a hunting club are upset at the noise and have appealed a decision to allow the activities to continue. They promised to file lawsuits if necessary.
Solana Beach, CA, Drum Group Cooperates with Noise Laws to Keep Meeting Place. 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.
Maine Passes Comprehensive Law Regulating Noise and Operators of Personal Watercraft. The Portland Press Herald reported Maine's new watercraft regulations take effect on Thursday. Years of complaints about noise and safety issues concerning the personal watercraft led to the most comprehensive law of its kind yet passed in Maine.
Olmstead Falls, Ohio, Fights Noise and Expansion at Cleveland Hopkins Airport. 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.
Communities in the Buffalo, New York, Area Draft Noise Ordinance with Car Stereos in Mind. The Buffalo News reports New York's Erie County Sheriff's Department and other area police agencies are trying to crackdown on drivers who blast high-powered car stereos.
MBTA Includes Whistles in T Noise Study; Neighbors Hope for Noise Mitigation. 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.
NJ Resident Cited for Noise; Neighbors Say Police Acted Too Slowly. The Record reports although police issued a ticket to the hostess of a noisy Fourth of July reggae party on Saturday night, angry neighbors say the officers acted too late to save their holiday from being ruined by loud music and crowds of people overflowing onto the street.
Weston, Florida, Gets Serious About Enforcing Quiet. The Sun-Sentinel reports several residents of Weston, Florida, urged the City Commission to approve a code limiting "loud and raucous noise." The noise code was unanimously approved.
London Case Pending on Landlords' Liability in Noise Nuisance Matters. The Lawyer reports judgment is pending in a London case which will determine landlords' liability in respect to noise nuisance.
Court of Appeal Will Hear Challenge of Noise Abatement Notice Served to English Pub. The Lawyer reports a Gosport, England, pub is at the center of a pending test case over procedures to be followed by courts dealing with complaints of noise nuisance.
Gun Club Relocation Endorsed by Rhode Island Planning Board Despite Opposition from Residents with Noise Concerns. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the West Greenwich, Rhode Island, Planning Board voted last night to recommend that the Zoning Board of Review approve an area gun club's relocation. The recommendation came despite two dissenting votes and a number of residents expressing noise concerns.
U.S. National Park Service Announces Plans to Ban Jet Skis in Certain Areas. Greenwire published the following press release saying the National Park Service has proposed banning jet- propulsion personal watercraft (PWCs) from many of the waterways it oversees because of pollution, noise and safety concerns:
N.Salt Lake Gravel Pit Cooperates with Neighbors, Gets Noise Variance Extension. The Deseret News reports a North Salt Lake gravel pit operator has been granted an extension on a noise variance. City officials say the extension is the gravel company's reward for its cooperation in response to residents' noise complaints.
NYC Loses Suit to Stop More Flights at La Guardia; Appeal Probable. The New York Times reports a Federal appeals court ruled yesterday in favor of allowing increased flights into and out of New York City's La Guardia Airport.
National Park Service Proposes Banning Personal Watercraft From All National Parks. The Austin American-Statesman reports that the National Park Service has proposed banning personal watercraft such as Jet Skis from all national parks because of noise, safety, and environmental concerns. The article notes that the Park Service expects to publish the proposed rules this summer, and then take public comments for 90 days, after which the rules could be revised. The new regulations could take effect next year.
National Parks Service Ban on Jet Skis May Affect California Sites. 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.
FedEx and Airport Reject North Carolina Residents' Proposal for Alternate Hub Site. The News & Record reports FedEx and Piedmont Triad International Airport officials on Tuesday rejected an alternative site for the company's new hub and declined to change their plans to build a third runway. Officials still plan to meet with residents about noise and safety concerns.
Neighbors Claim Noise Increase at Firing Range in Grafton, MA. 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.
Neighbors of Noisy Racetrack in PA Urged to Call Police with Complaints. The Morning Call reports neighbors of a Silverdale, Pennsylvania, racing track complained Monday to the city council about excessive noise and dust. They were advised to report their complaints to police in an effort to get the noise ordinance enforced.
Personal Watercraft Ban Proposed by National Park Service. The New York Times reports personal watercraft such as Jet Skis could be banned from all national parks because of safety, noise and environmental concerns under rules proposed by the National Park Service.
New South Wales Considers Curfews to Cut Road Traffic Noise. AAP Newsfeed reports the New South Wales government is considering night curfews on some roads to cut traffic noise, the Daily Telegraph reported today.
Citizens Group Says it Will File Suit Against the Navy for Bringing Jets to Virginia. The Virginian-Pilot reports that Citizens Concerned About Jet Noise in Virginia Beach, Virginia plans to file a lawsuit challenging the U.S. Navy's decision to move 10 squadrons of Hornet jets to the Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach. The group has hired an attorney and will meet Thursday to discuss the issue and solicit donations. The group has until July 16 to file the suit, the article notes.
Long Beach, NY, Bucks Trend and Considers Lifting Leafblower Ban. Newsday reports the city council of Long Beach, New York, is considering rescinding its ban on leafblowers within the city. Critics say the ban was never enforced in the first place, charging even city workers violated the ban.
Steel Company Makes Noise Reduction Efforts to Appease Neighbors in Walsall, England. The Birmingham Evening Mail reports a dispute has been resolved between residents and a Walsall, England, steel firm over alleged late night noise.
NYC Loses Appeal to Prevent More Flights at La Guardia. Newsday reports a federal appeals court has upheld the U.S. Department of Transportation's plan to add 21 daily flights into New York's LaGuardia Airport.
NYC's Heliport and Helicopter Master Plan Criticized by Activists. 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.
Legislation Will Address Noise from Air Tours in National Parks. U.S. Newswire issued the following press release concerning regulation of air tours over national parks:
Senate Plan to Add Flights at Chicago Airport Draws Angry Reaction from Local Residents and Officials. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that activists in the Chicago, Illinois area are angry about a bill in the Senate that would add 100 daily flights at O'Hare International Airport. The bill is scheduled for a vote in a Senate committee today, the article notes. It would still need the approval of the full Senate, and then would need to be reconciled with a House bill.
Airport Noise Shifts from One Town in China to Another; Environmental Groups Demand Compensation for Residents. The South China Morning Post reports airport noise has shifted from Kowloon to Lantau and Sha Tin despite promises that Chek Lap Kok would solve the problem, green groups said yesterday.
Oregon Resident Complains About Traffic Noise. The Bulletin printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Frances Collins, a Bend, Oregon resident, regarding traffic noise on Eighth Street:
Ariz. Sen. McCain Backs Proposal to Add More Flights at O'Hare; Chicago Area Residents Outraged. The Chicago Sun-Times reports Chicago area residents reacted with outrage to a U.S. Senate proposal to add 100 daily flights at O'Hare Airport.
Runway Work at Portland Airport to Shift Flight Patterns and Noise. The Columbian reports work on Portland International Airport's south runway will shift aircraft flight patterns and bring more noise to areas north of the airport.
California Residents Protest Raceway Expansion. The San Francisco Chronicle reports that about 50 people attended a meeting yesterday before the Sonoma County (California) Board of Zoning Adjustments to debate the draft environmental impact report of the expansion of the Sears Point Raceway in the Santa Rosa area. The article says residents in Sonoma Valley are opposed to the expansion, saying it will bring more noise, traffic, and visual blight. The article notes that public comments will be taken through July 27, and then will be incorporated into the final environmental study. Meanwhile, Sonoma Valley Citizens Advisory Commission unanimously passed a resolution recommending the zoning board reject the current environmental impact report and redraft it with adequate mitigation plans.
Washington Officials Angry About Plan by Senator McCain to Add Flights at National Airport. The Washington Times reports that the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee yesterday approved new rules that would allow 24 more planes per day to fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and lift restrictions on how far away the flights could come from. Senator John McCain (R-Arizona), the chair of the committee, is the chief sponsor of the bill, and says that the provisions would allow more competition in the Washington market. But local officials said McCain was meddling in their affairs for the benefit of Congress members who want more convenient flights to Washington. The committee still must take up the bill on Tuesday to approve final amendments, the article notes. If approved by the full Senate, the bill would have to be reconciled with a similar bill in the House. That bill would add only six flights at Reagan National, and would eliminate the restriction on long-haul flights.
Senator McCain Gets Praise and Criticism for Flight-Related Bill. The Arizona Republic reports that Arizona Senator John McCain was praised by many on Thursday for a bill to reduce aircraft noise over national parks, but was then criticized by citizen groups opposed to a provision in the bill which would increase flights at such airports as Chicago's O'Hare and Washington's Reagan National. McCain also was accused of pushing the bill in order to benefit America West Airlines, based in Tempe, Arizona. The bill would allow America West to fly non-stop from Phoenix to Washington's Reagan National Airport. The article notes that the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which McCain heads, gave preliminary approval to the bill, and will return next week to consider some minor amendments.
Virginia Citizens Group Will Challenge Navy in Federal Court Over Bringing Jets to Town. The Virginian-Pilot reports that the group Citizens Concerned About Jet Noise has announced it will bring a lawsuit against the U.S. Navy over plans to bring 10 squadrons of Hornet jets to Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The article says about 100 residents attended a meeting Thursday to lend their support to the group. The group has until Thursday to file their lawsuit.
Irish Man Takes Neighbor to Court for Crowing Rooster; Now Neighbor Blares TV and Radio Noise. The Mirror reports that an Irish man, Mr. Masterson, took his neighbor, Mrs. Gallagher, to court to stop her rooster from crowing every morning at 4:30 a.m. in the summer. Now, the article says, Mrs. Gallagher has started to blare her radio and television at all hours of the day.
FAA Will Get Involved in Fight Over California Airport Expansion. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports California Representatives Howard Berman (D-Mission Hills) and Brad Sherman (D-Woodland Hills) announced Friday that they will lobby the federal government to resolve the long-running dispute over expansion of the Burbank Airport. The Representatives also announced that Jane Garvey, the head of the Federal Aviation Administration, will come to Los Angeles on August 11 to mediate a solution to the fight between city of Burbank and the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority. The city is involved in legal battles with the airport authority over the proposed airport expansion, saying the airport's plans will cause more jet noise for its residents. The Representatives made their announcements at a summit on Los Angeles area airport issues sponsored by the Valley Industry and Commerce Association.
Scottish Planning Committee Delays Ruling on Noise Problems at Quarry. The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports the Highland Council's Ross and Cromarty area planning committee, near Aberdeen, Scotland, has delayed a ruling on noise problems by the quarry operator Leiths, on its Tor Achilty quarry near Contin, until September. The committee is set to consider a breach of the quarry's planning conditions related to noise levels. Committee members delayed their ruling in order to allow the quarry to finish work which is intended to minimize the noise.
Chicago Suburb Officials Urge Residents to Call Senators About Proposal to Add More Flights at O'Hare. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that local officials in Itasca and Wood Dale, Illinois are urging residents to call Illinois' two senators to protest a plan to add 100 daily flights at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago. The article notes that the proposal is championed by Senator John McCain (R-Arizona), the chair of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and is scheduled for a final vote in the committee on Tuesday.
Illinois Congress Members Seek to Halt Senator McCain's Plan to Add Flights at O'Hare. The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Illinois Congress members stepped up pressure on Senator John McCain (R-Arizona) Friday, trying to stop him from moving forward on his plan to add 100 daily flights at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago.
Noise Wall is Completed in Florida City. The Florida Times-Union reports that a noise wall has been completed in Jacksonville, Florida along Interstate 95 from north of Emerson Street to south of University Boulevard. Residents are mostly happy with the noise wall, the article says.
Two Loud Virginia Amphitheater Concerts Anger Residents. The Virginian-Pilot reports that a pair of rock concerts at GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater in Virginia Beach, Virginia have resulted in the heaviest noise complaints this season about the amphitheater. City officials and representatives of Cellar Door, a company that operates the amphitheater, will meet Monday to again discuss ways of keeping the noise down, the article says.
Congressional Plan to Add Flights at Chicago Airport Draws Sharp Outcry from Residents. The Chicago Sun-Times reports residents living near the O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois last week sharply protested a proposal by U.S. Senator John McCain (R-Arizona) to add 129 commercial flights per day at the airport.
Environmental Impact Statement Process Begins on FedEx Hub in North Carolina; Meanwhile, Residents Angry at Airport for Not Considering an Alternate Expansion Plan. The News & Record reports that a consulting firm is expected to be hired in the next three weeks to begin compiling an environmental impact statement for a plan to build a FedEx package-handling hub at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. The airport's plans include constructing a third runway parallel to the existing main runway. Meanwhile, residents who oppose the FedEx hub offered airport officials a compromise map which they believed would have reduced the impact of the hub, but officials rejected it, angering residents.
Florida County Government and Two Federal Agencies Target Personal Watercraft With Restrictions and Research. The Houston Chronicle reports that a wide range of groups has started to criticize personal watercraft, saying that the machines are too noisy and unsafe. Among the critics are law enforcement officers, anglers and recreational boaters, waterside homeowners, and safety officials. The most recent critics include officials in Florida's Monroe County, the National Park Service, and the National Transportation Safety Board. The article goes on to outline the actions of each of the three agencies, and lists many safety statistics related to Jet Skis.
More Than 40 Noise Walls Needed Near Freeways in Southern California, But State Has No Timetable to Build Them. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports California state officials identified more than a dozen locations in the Los Angeles area in 1989 that needed noise walls to protect residents from traffic noise. But, the article says, those noise barriers haven't even been funded, let alone built. Since then, state officials have identified 27 others that are needed in the San Fernando Valley, but there is no timetable to build them. Now, legislation that would build the noise walls by 2008 is being held up in the Legislature because Northern and Southern California lawmakers are fighting about who should get more money for the noise barriers.
Residents Oppose Pennsylvania Shopping Center, Saying it Will Bring Traffic and Noise. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that residents in Cranberry, Pennsylvania are opposing a proposed 550,000-square-foot regional shopping center because they believe it will bring additional truck traffic and noise to their neighborhood. At a township planning commission meeting on Wednesday, residents voiced their concerns. At the end of the meeting, planning commissioners asked for another meeting with developers to address questions raised by residents and staff members at the township.
Residents on New York's Long Island Want Noise Walls, But State Won't Build Them. Newsday reports that residents in many communities on Long Island, outside New York City, are complaining about traffic noise near their homes. While many residents have asked that noise walls be built in their neighborhoods, the state Department of Transportation will only consider building walls in neighborhoods next to major highway construction projects. Only one community on Long Island, Plainview, has succeeded in getting money for a noise wall without a major road construction project underway, the article says.
Town's on New York's Long Island Struggle With How and Whether to Ban Leaf-Blowers. The New York Times reports that towns and villages across Long Island in New York are struggling with how and whether to ban gas-powered leaf-blowers. The article says that some municipalities have passed an outright ban on the blowers during the summer, while others recently have passed rules that define acceptable decibel levels for the blowers. Still others are considering bans, and one city which banned blowers four years ago is considering rescinding the ordinance.
California Airport Completes Soundproofing Demonstration Program, and Offers Soundproofing to More Residents. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that nine families living near the Burbank Airport in Burbank, California were the first to have soundproofing against jet noise installed in their homes in an airport-sponsored program. Now, the airport plans to spend $110 million to soundproof 2,300 more homes in Burbank, Sun Valley, and North Hollywood over the next 10 to 15 years. The article says that airport officials are hoping their success at soundproofing the first nine "demonstration" homes will encourage more families to sign up for the program, will help meet government sound-reduction mandates, and will generate goodwill in the community over their controversial plan to build a larger air terminal. But the city of Burbank, which is opposing the airport expansion, has not backed the soundproofing program, saying it is a stopgap measure and not a cure for jet noise. In addition, the city has objected to the agreement residents must sign with the airport pledging to never sue the airport over noise, smoke, or vibration in exchange for the free soundproofing.
Editorial Says Jet Ski Ban in Some Washington Lakes Makes Sense. The Columbian printed an editorial that argues Jet Ski bans make sense in some Washington lakes. In national parks and other important natural areas, Jet Skis are not appropriate, the editorial says. But on other lakes, such as the Lacamas Lake near Vancouver, Washington, seaplanes and motorboats already have shattered the silence and residential developments have eliminated much of the former natural setting. On such lakes, the editorial argues, Jet Skis should be banned only if they can be shown to be environmentally harmful.
Maine's Acadia National Park is First National Park to Ban Jet Skis. The Bangor Daily News reports that Acadia National Park, near Bar Harbor, Maine, has become the first national park in the country to ban personal watercraft in its lakes and ponds. The article explains that the Maine Land Use Regulation Commission and the National Park System currently are working on rules that would restrict personal watercraft on many water bodies throughout the country. According to the article, Acadia used the state's Great Ponds law to achieve its ban. Meanwhile, the National Park Service is considering banning Jet Skis at nine other national parks, including Mount Ranier in Washington and Voyageurs in Minnesota.
Maryland Developers Seek to Develop Land Near Highways, While County Officials Struggle to Protect Future Homeowners From Traffic Noise. The Baltimore Sun reports that the counties around Baltimore, Maryland are increasingly facing a problem as developers try to build on land parcels close to major highways, and residents demand noise walls. But the State Highway Administration will not build noise barriers to protect any neighborhood that was built after the roads were constructed. State officials instead are recommending that county officials develop local policies to protect future homeowners from highway noise. As a result, counties are requiring developers to build further away from highways, build their own noise walls, or take other steps to mitigate noise.
Washington State Supreme Court Rules That Jet Skis Can Be Banned. NBC News Transcripts reports that the Washington state Supreme Court has upheld a county ordinance that bans Jet Skis as noise pollution in the San Juan islands, north of Seattle, Washington.
California City Considers New Noise Ordinance. The Ventura County Star reports that the City Council in Moorpark, California will consider approving a new noise ordinance on Wednesday. The ordinance would replace a current section in the municipal code with more specific language about which noises are prohibited and when they are prohibited. The article notes that the proposed ordinance was approved by the Planning Commission earlier this year.
Electronic Monitoring System Used in Grimsby, England, to Combat Noise Nuisances. The Grimsby Evening Telegraph reports an English town of Grimsby is using an electronic monitoring system to combat noise pollution.
Hong Kong Residents Complain About Jet Noise, But Officials Refuse Compensation for Residents Outside Noise Contour. The South China Morning Post reports that China's Civil Aviation Department has received about 300 complaints from residents since the Hong Kong airport opened. While residents continue to protest, government officials say that compensating residents who live outside the "noise contour" is out of the question. Meanwhile, decibel levels on the ground below the flight path range from 60 to 70 decibels.
Hong Kong Residents Complain About Jet Noise. The Emerging Markets Datafile (Hong Kong Standard) reports that residents in Hong Kong, China are complaining about jet noise from the Hong Kong International Airport. The article says that at a public forum held near Tai Wai on Monday, residents living in the area expressed anger at the Civil Aviation Department for bringing the jets over their neighborhoods. Meanwhile, airport officials said the flight path would be difficult or impossible to change.
Residents in Washington State Object to Airport Expansion, But Officials Pass Expansion Plan. The Seattle Times reports that residents in the old Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle, Washington already experience significant jet noise from Boeing Field. Despite their objections, however, the Metropolitan King County Council yesterday unanimously approved a proposal to bring more cargo flights to the airport and move the runway closer Georgetown's homes. The proposal now moves to county environmental reviews. But, the article says, given yesterday's unanimous vote, the plan is likely to get final approval from the council sometime next year.
Activist Decries Lack of Public Process for Proposed Air Cargo Airport in Nevada. The Las Vegas Review-Journal printed an editorial by Randy Harkness, chair of the Southern Nevada chapter of the Sierra Club, regarding a proposed air cargo airport near Jean, Nevada. The writer criticizes an earlier editorial in the paper on the subject, and goes on to say that the proposed airport could create many noise and environmental problems. The project should not be undertaken without a complete public process, which is not now happening, the writer says. The Sierra Club is opposing a provision regarding the airport in an appropriations bill because it would further prevent public input, the editorial says.
Florida Airport Officials Ask Condominium Developer for Noise Liability Waivers, But Developers Refuse. The St. Petersburg Times reports officials at the Albert Whitted Municipal Airport in St. Petersburg, Florida are worried about the location of Vinoy Place, a proposed condominium development below the final approach path for one of the airport's runways. The article says airport officials asked the developers to require buyers to sign liability waivers, protecting the airport from noise lawsuits. But developers, on the advice of the city's legal department, have refused; however, they say they will provide full disclosure to buyers about the airport's proximity.
Florida Resident Says Newspaper Shouldn't Print Comments About Jet Noise From People Living Far From Airport. The Palm Beach Post printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Marilyn Jordan, a West Palm Beach resident, regarding noise from the Palm Beach International Airport:
Hong Kong Residents Propose Alternative Flight Path to Cut Noise, But Government Says There's Little Hope for Change. The South China Morning Post reports that an activist group in Hong Kong, China is protesting against jet noise at the Hong Kong area airport, saying that an alternative flight path would solve the problem. But meanwhile, officials with the government's Civil Aviation Department say there is "little scope" for change.
Indiana County Approves New Noise Ordinance. The Indianapolis Star reports that County Commissioners in Hendricks County, Indiana approved a new ordinance Monday designed to regulate excessive noise and disorderly conduct. The ordinance allows officers to issue citations for violations, and to issue warnings on the first offense.
Louisiana Officials to Make Final Decision on Building Noise Wall Along Interstate. The Times-Picayune reports that Louisiana state officials are set to make a final decision about building noise walls along Interstate 10 in Jefferson. The article notes that officials will make a final decision about the placement and composition of the noise walls in August.
Louisiana State Officials Will Make Final Decision on Placement of Noise Walls in August. The Times-Picayune reports that noise walls will be built along Interstate 10 in Metairie and Kenner, Louisiana to mitigate traffic noise for residents. The noise wall construction project is part of a plan to widen I-10, the article notes. State officials will make a final decision on the placement and composition of the walls in August, after compiling data gathered from public meetings.
Maryland Councilor Calls for Police Enforcement of Noise Ordinance. The Capital reports that Alder Board member Louise Hammond of Annapolis, Maryland this week called for police to enforce the noise ordinance against traffic noise in the downtown.
Proposed Noise Controls on Aircraft Testing at New Zealand Airport May Be Relaxed. The Evening Standard reports that the city council resource management and regulatory committee in Palmerston North, New Zealand voted Monday to proceed with the public notification of a variation to the proposed district plan that would allow noise from the testing of aircraft engines at Palmerston North Airport to be louder than the district plan proposes.
Residents in New Mexico Complain About Noisy Training Flights. The Albuquerque Journal reports that residents living near the Four Corners Regional Airport in Farmington, New Mexico are angry about noise from the training flights initiated by the Mesa Air Group. According to the article, residents had hoped that after Mesa Air Group officials announced recently they would be moving their operation, that the noisy training flights would leave the area. But Mesa officials said their subsidiary, the pilot training company Mesa Pilot Development, would remain at the airport and would be increasing flights. Residents are expected to air their complaints at a meeting today of the Farmington Airport Advisory Commission. The commission plans to make a recommendation to the City Council on how to resolve the problem.
Rhode Island Zoning Board Postpones Public Hearing on Gun Club Permit. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Zoning Board of Review in West Greenwich, Rhode Island postponed a public hearing last night on a special-use permit sought by the Wincheck Gun Club, because the club's two expert witnesses were unable to attend and because board members requested site plans for the proposed club. More than 50 residents concerned about noise attended the meeting and waited two-and-a-half hours without getting a chance to speak. The Zoning Board moved the public hearing to its August 25 meeting.
U.S. Senate Committee Approves 100 More Daily Flights at Chicago's Airport. The Chicago Tribune reports that the Senate Commerce Committee voted 11-9 Tuesday to approve legislation that could add 100 commercial flights per day at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, the world's busiest airport. Senators voted on the legislation after listening to a last-minute, unannounced appeal against the bill from U.S. Senator Carol Moseley-Braun (D-Illinois), who is not a member of the committee. The article notes that the legislation is part of a national aviation bill, and it now advances to the full Senate, where a fight is expected between senators who want to increase flights around the country and those who represent constituents battling airport noise and traffic.
Washington Resident Applauds State Supreme Court and National Park Service for Banning Jet Skis. The Seattle Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Christina Wilsdon, a Seattle resident, regarding noise from personal watercraft:
California Judge Strikes Down Strict Noise Restrictions at Amphitheater. The City News Service reports that Orange County Superior Court judge Robert Thomas today struck down strict noise restrictions at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California. The article explains that the parties in the lawsuit were the Orange County Fair and Exposition Center, which owns the amphitheater, the Nederlander Organization, which sold the amphitheater to the fair, and homeowners living nearby. The article notes that the judge set a subsequent hearing for August 21 to determine the exact language of the final document which will accompany the ruling.
California Planning Commission Votes to Skip Environmental Study in Converting Residentially Zoned Land to Commercially Zoned Land. The Fresno Bee reports that the Planning Commission in Fresno, California voted unanimously Wednesday to consider the question of re-zoning 26 acres of land from residential to commercial uses without conducting an environmental impact report. As a result, the article says, the city will decide in August whether to re-zone the land. Staff members at the city planning department and some residents opposed re-zoning the site without an environmental report to assess the impacts of re-zoning on traffic, noise, and aesthetics.
D.C. Residents Try to Shut Down Noisy and Dangerous Nightclub. The Washington Post reports that residents in Washington, D.C. are trying to shut down the Palace nightclub, in the 300 block of Kennedy Street NW. Residents living near the club say the club is noisy, creates traffic problems, and most of all, is dangerous to the surrounding community. A shoot-out outside the club occurred Sunday, and a stabbing occurred in April. On Tuesday, about 24 local residents demonstrated outside the club, calling for its closure. The article explains that a recently passed law, the Suspension of Liquor Licenses Amendment Act, may help residents in their fight, because it allows the alcohol licenses of establishments to be suspended when violence in or near the club endangers the community or the police.
Debate in California Anti-Airport Suburb on El Toro Airport Doesn't Sway Audience. The Orange County Register reports that a debate was held Thursday in Irvine, California on the proposed commercial airport at El Toro Marine Corps Air Station between Norman Ewers, a retired Marine Corps pilot and airport supporter, and Larry Agran, the chair of Project 99 and the former Irvine mayor. The article notes that most residents in Irvine oppose the airport; thus, Ewers got little sympathy, while Agran preached to the choir. After the debate, the 65 residents who attended remained undaunted in their opposition to the airport, the article says.
Editorial Applauds Proposal by National Park Service to Ban Personal Watercraft. The St. Petersburg Times printed an editorial that argues the proposal by the National Park Service to ban Jet Skis at national parks would improve health and safety conditions at our parks. The editorial goes on to say that state and local governments should impose similar restrictions on Jet Skis near coastal and lake shores. The issue is especially important for Florida, the editorial says.
Entertainment Center Approved in California, Despite Some Residents' Objections. The Orange County Register reports that the Planning Commission in Garden Grove, California on Wednesday unanimously approved a proposal to build Riverwalk, a $400 million entertainment center along Harbor Boulevard, despite some residents' concerns about noise, traffic, and parking. The article notes that the development includes a half-mile circular stream surrounding jazz clubs, restaurants and shops, a 16-to-24-screen movie-theater complex, a 500-room hotel, an entertainment center with a bowling alley, an ice-skating rink, and a virtual-reality arcade. The project now must gain approval from the City Council. Meanwhile, residents can comment on the draft environmental impact report for the project until August 14.
National Park Service's Proposal to Ban Jet Skis Intensifies Debate on Issue. Greenwire reports that according to USA Today, the National Park Service's proposal to ban personal watercraft in several national parks and recreation areas is "intensifying [the] aquatic culture clash between Jet Skiers, traditional boaters, and shoreside spectators" (Greenwire, 7/8). The article lists several areas around the country that have recently restricted Jet Skis, and gives several editorial quotes from U.S. newspapers on the topic of Jet Ski restrictions.
New Hong Kong Airport Generates Noise and Protests. The British Broadcasting Corporation reports that, according to a Radio TV Hong Kong audio web-site report on July 14th, about 30 residents demonstrated outside Central district government offices over jet noise from the new Hong Kong area airport. Meanwhile, Christine Loh, the new chair of the Environmental Panel, said jet noise at the airport will be the top priority for the panel.
New York Town Police Train More Police to Use Decibel Meters, Increasing Enforcement of Noise Law. Newsday reports that the city of Long Beach, New York has doubled the number of police officers qualified to use decibel meters in order to enforce the city's noise ordinance. City officials said the noise ordinance and the decibel meter training has resulted in a less noisy community.
North Carolina Residents Want to Know How Airport's Growth From FedEx Hub Will Affect the City. The News & Record reports that residents in Greensboro, North Carolina concerned about a proposed FedEx hub at Piedmont Triad International Airport called on the Airport Authority Wednesday to lay out how the hub and the airport's growth will affect the city. Residents are worried that the proposed growth to accommodate FedEx will result in unacceptable levels of noise, traffic congestion, and air pollution. Meanwhile, the state House gave final approval Wednesday to a series of economic incentives for FedEx, including $115 million in tax breaks over 20 years.
Proposal for Police Shooting Range in England Draws Concern. The Northern Echo reports that the police force in County Durham, England has proposed using the site of an old quarry at Running Waters, three miles southeast of Durham City, for an outdoor shooting range. But, the article says, some residents and councilors are objecting to the plan.
Residents in Chicago Suburb Voice Frustration Over Noisy Jets and Misleading Noise Measurements. The Chicago Tribune reports that Park Ridge Citizens O'Hare Airport Council in Park Ridge, Illinois met Wednesday to discuss residents' frustration over jet noise from O'Hare International Airport. Residents complained about misleading noise measurements done by the airport, and suggested that fines be charged to airlines that fly too close to the town or limits be placed on when planes can fly overhead.
Virginia Citizens Group Files Lawsuit Against U.S. Navy Over Plan to Bring Military Jets to Town. The Virginian-Pilot reports that a citizens group filed a lawsuit against the secretary of the U.S. Navy on Wednesday, seeking to postpone the transfer of 10 military jet squadrons to Oceana Naval Air Station near Norfolk, Virginia until a study is done on the impacts of the jets on the region.
Washington, DC Residents Fear Increasing Noise if Senate Bill Increases Airport's Flights. The Washington Times reports that residents living near the Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC aren't happy about a proposal to add 24 more daily flights at the airport. The article explains that the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee on Tuesday approved a bill that would add the flights. But residents say they already experience too much jet noise. The bill must still be passed by the full Senate and then reconciled with a similar bill passed by the House.
Calfornia State Assembly Member. The Daily News of Los Angeles printed an editorial by George Runner, a California Assembly member (R-Lancaster, Palmdale, Santa Clarita), arguing that the Los Angeles City Council passed an arbitrary and unfair ordinance when it banned gas-powered leaf-blowers. The writer notes that the Assembly's Local Government Committee narrowly approved a bill that would overturn that ban. The editorial says that Republicans in the Assembly advocate an approach that allows local governments to establish noise standards as technologies develop without seriously damaging the gardening industry.
Colorado City Bans Jake Brakes on Large Trucks. The Denver Post reports that the City Council in Northglenn, Colorado voted last week to ban the use of "jake brakes" on large trucks, which emit a series of loud popping noises, within the city limits. The article notes that residents have complained about the noise from the jake brakes from semis on Interstate 25 between 120th and 104th Avenues.
Jet Skis Targeted as Polluters of Michigan's Great Lakes. The Detroit News reports that scientists and others this summer are targeting personal watercraft with significantly polluting Michigan's Great Lakes. Millions of gallons of unburned fuel are being poured into the lakes from the inefficient two-stroke engines on Jet Skis and other personal watercraft, experts say. The article notes that state bills on Jet Ski restrictions have passed the House and Senate and are bound for Governor Engler's signature. The bills address issues of safety, training, and law enforcement related to personal watercraft, but don't address water pollution.
Judge Lifts Some Noise Restrictions at California Amphitheater. The Orange County Register reports that a Superior Court judge in Costa Mesa, California ruled Thursday that some noise restrictions must be lifted at the 18,500-seat Pacific Amphitheatre at the Orange County Fairgrounds. But, the article notes, the judge ruled that a restriction limiting decibel levels at the edge of the amphitheater can remain in place.
Maine Residents Try to Build Consensus for Noise Wall Near Interstate. The Bangor Daily News reports that residents living near the Interstate 95 Broadway exit in Bangor, Maine continued their work Wednesday on getting a noise wall installed along the highway. The article notes that the Maine Department of Transportation has set aside $200,000 to build a wall, but state officials say they won't build the wall unless they get consensus from the residents on the issue. Some residents, the article says, have opposed the wall, saying it would be too intrusive in their neighborhood.
Montreal Police Monitor Neighborhood by Helicopter, Angering Residents. The Gazette reports that police in Montreal, Quebec have been regularly patrolling the Mile End district of the city by helicopter for the past several weeks to secure the area from crime. But residents are complaining about the helicopter's noise, saying it keeps them from sleeping and the searchlights make them feel like they're in a war zone.
New Mexico County Passes Noise Ordinance. The Albuquerque Journal reports that Grant County Commissioners in Silver City, New Mexico approved a noise ordinance Tuesday that took effect immediately.
Resident Says Washington State Airport Officials Didn't Follow Federal Guidelines in Noise Mitigation Program. The Seattle Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor form Minnie Brasher, a Burien, Washington resident, regarding noise from the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport:
Residents Near California Amphitheater Worry About Judge's Ruling Eliminating Some Noise Restrictions. The Orange County Register reports that residents living near the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California are afraid that a Superior Court judge's ruling Thursday that lifted some noise restrictions at the concert venue will result in unbearable noise. The article notes that the judge's ruling eliminated residents' control over the site's sound covenant.
U.S. Senate Strikes a Deal for 30 More Flights at Chicago Airport Instead of 100. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a U.S. Senate committee brokered an agreement Thursday that calls for 30 more daily commercial takeoffs and landings at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport instead of the 100 flights proposed last week. The article notes that the revised bill still must be approved by the full Senate and then reconciled with a House bill that calls for 29 new daily commercial flights.
"Dear Abby" Column Says Communities Have Banned Ice Cream Truck Noise, But Insists Trucks are Still a Great Old Tradition. The Charleston Daily Mail printed a "Dear Abby" column in which a reader wrote in describing the offensive nature of the music coming from new ice-cream trucks. Abby responded that many communities have banded together to restrict noise from ice-cream trucks, but she also printed letters from other readers who said ice-cream trucks bring back great memories.
Editorial Advocates Regulations on Jet Skis in Florida. The Orlando Sentinel Tribune printed an editorial that argues that Florida communities should place restrictions on Jet Skis, or personal watercraft, and enforce the regulations. Otherwise, the editorial says, a ban could lie ahead.
Indiana Resident Asks How to Get Relief From Noisy Dog. The Indianapolis Star reports printed a column in which a resident of Indianapolis, Indiana asked whether there is a county ordinance that protects residents from neighbors' dogs that bark incessantly. The columnist responded by outlining the law enforcement process that the resident could undertake.
Louisiana Noise Activist's Property is Firebombed for the Third Time. The Times-Picayune reports that a servant's quarters building behind the home of Stuart Smith, an activist who has demanded a crackdown on noisy bars in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, was set fire to on Friday about 5 a.m. Smith said this is the third firebombing of his property in what he believes is a campaign of intimidation for his activism.
Money from England’s Birmingham International Airport Intended to Mitigate Noise for School Children. The Birmingham Evening Mail reports that the Birmingham International Airport is spending 400,000 pounds to mitigate the effect of noisy planes flying over local schools.
Editorial Argues that FAA Should Take Greater Role in Determining Flight Patterns at Proposed California Airport. The Los Angeles Times printed an editorial that says the Federal Aviation Administration should be more involved in determining feasibility of the El Toro Airport in Orange County, California. Currently, debates over takeoffs to the East and North are not grounded in the way that they would be if the FAA -- whose prime responsibility is assuring safety and efficiency of airport operations -- would give a firm opinion on the safety of the proposed runways usage.
Judge Hears Case on Motorcycle Course in Rural Wisconsin; Residents Angry About Noise and Afraid of Course Owner. The Wisconsin State Journal reports that residents are angry about the noise from a motorcycle course in Dunn, Wisconsin. Earlier this month, Dane County Judge Richard Callaway heard arguments in the dispute, and could rule on it Tuesday when the hearing resumes. County officials have argued that the course's owners have violated zoning laws that prohibit a motorcycle course on land zoned for farming, and failed to get a proper erosion control permit to move dirt to build the course. Many residents who object to the motorcycle course are afraid of the course's owners, who have done jail time and had additional brushes with the law. Meanwhile, the town of Dunn board will hold a public hearing Tuesday on a proposed ordinance to limit "disorderly conduct with a motor vehicle" that appears to be aimed at controlling the motorcycle course.
New York Island Community Passes Strict Noise Ordinance Among Some Controversy. Newsday reports that the Town Board in Shelter Island, New York unanimously approved a strict noise ordinance on June 19. The article notes that the town was split on the issue, with two opposing petitions collecting almost an equal number of signatures.
Residents in Ontario Start Picketing Courier Warehouse Over Noise, While City Takes Company to Court. The Ottawa Citizen reports that residents in the Blossom Park area of Gloucester, Ontario are planning a week-long protest against Dicom Express, a courier warehouse located near their homes, over noise that comes from the facility's trucks. Meanwhile, the city of Gloucester last week decided to take the courier company to court for violating the city's noise law. But officials with Dicom Express said the suit will be thrown out, as an earlier suit by the city was, because the company is located in an industrial zone.
Arizona Town Officials Seek to Build 3,000 Homes Near Air Force Base; Military Opposes the Plan. The Arizona Republic reports that city officials in El Mirage, Arizona hope to approve more than 3,000 new homes during the next several months for locations directly below the flight path of the Luke Air Force Base. In response to the plan, the Airport Military Preservation Committee, a group of state lawmakers and military and community representatives, voted last week to ask the state Attorney General's Office to examine whether El Mirage would be violating an Arizona statute if the subdivisions are built.
Colorado City Steps Up Enforcement of Noise Ordinance. The Denver Post reports that police in Aurora, Colorado have stepped up enforcement of the city's noise ordinance that passed in 1995, responding to residents' complaints. The article says residents were warned with an insert in their water bills this month to keep the noise down.
Massachusetts Residents Complain About Motorcycle Noise. The Patriot Ledger reports that residents on Wollaston Beach in Quincy, Massachusetts are complaining about noise from motorcycle drivers in the area. The article says that both Wollaston and Nantasket Beaches are patrolled by state troopers instead of local police, making enforcement of noise laws more difficult.
Missouri Residents Lodge Complaints About Barking Dogs; New Noise Monitoring Stations Installed at Lambert Field. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that residents in Pasadena Hills, Missouri have called Mayor Scott Livingston during evening hours to complain about barking dogs. Livingston said last week that there's little he can do personally about the problem. In other news, the Pasadena Hills Board of Alderman last week heard a report about new noise monitoring stations to be installed at Lambert Field.
Business Owners Object to Proposed Changes in Wisconsin City's Noise Ordinance. The Capital Times reports that the Plan Commission in Madison, Wisconsin held a public meeting Monday to discuss proposed changes in the city's noise ordinance. A group of local manufacturers and business owners turned out at the meeting, objecting to the proposed changes. The commission sent the issue back to a committee for more study.
FAA Makes No Decision on Missouri Airport Expansion Plan; Opponents Say FAA Will Reject Plan. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that officials with the Federal Aviation Administration met with Leonard Griggs, the director of Lambert Field near St. Louis, Missouri, on Monday to discuss plans for Lambert's proposed expansion. However, the article says, the federal agency gave no indication on whether it intends to approve the controversial expansion plan. Meanwhile, some opponents of Lambert's expansion predicted that the FAA would soon reject the plan. A meeting between FAA Administrator Jane Garvey and a delegation of local officials on the same topic is slated for Thursday in Washington.
Florida Town Passes New Noise Ordinance. The Sun-Sentinel reports that city commissioners in Weston, Florida voted unanimously Monday to approve a noise ordinance that will give Broward County Sheriff's Office deputies the power to issue citations for people making "loud or raucous noise."
Hong Kong Resident Belittles Outcry Over Jet Noise From New Airport. The South China Morning Post printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Andrew Lee, a Kowloon City, Hong Kong resident, regarding noise from the new Hong Kong airport:
Neighbors Near Massachusetts Rail Line Fear More Noise from Helicopters Patrolling Tracks. The Patriot Ledger reports that residents who live near the Old Colony rail line in the Quincy, Massachusetts area are critical of a recent decision by the MBTA, the transit authority, to patrol commuter rail lines with helicopters. MBTA officials and state police are undertaking the action to clear the track of trespassers and bands of partying teens, the article says.
New York Town Considers New Noise Ordinance. The Buffalo News reports that the Village Board in Hamburg, New York will hold a public hearing on August 17 to discuss a proposed noise oridnance.
Pennsylvania Residents Angry Over Idling Trains by Their Homes. The Morning Call reports that about 25 residents turned out for the borough council meeting in Emmaus, Pennsylvania Monday to demand that restrictions be placed on where Conrail trains can idle their engines. The article explains that boundaries were set in previous years regarding where trains can idle, but residents say the rules are not being enforced. Two weeks ago, residents asked council members to consider an ordinance banning the noise and pollution from the trains. Meanwhile, the article says, Conrail officials say an ordinance isn't necessary and they will start enforcing the boundaries.
TV Helicopters Break New Mexico City's Noise Laws; City Officials Want to Mediate Problem. The Albuquerque Journal reports that a recent study in Albuquerque, New Mexico found that three area television stations have news helicopters that operate above the city's noise laws. The article notes that the city monitored the stations helicopter ports in March and April in response to residents' complaints about the noise, fumes, and potential danger of the helicopters taking off and landing near their homes. City officials have offered to set up meetings between the news stations and the residents. Some residents said they are unhappy with the city's response.
Airline Companies Place More Orders for Hushkits to Meet Noise Regulations. Flight International reports that AvAero Aircraft Noise Reduction and the Nordam Group, two companies that specialize in installing Boeing 737 hushkits, have collected orders and options for more than 500 hushkits, used to quiet jet engines. The article notes that both companies have reported a new flurry of activity in the hushkit market as deadlines for meeting the Stage 3 noise regulations approach.
California Residents Call for More Noise Protection With Highway Project. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the City Council in San Diego, California unanimously approved a plan yesterday to mitigate some of the impact of the construction of state Route 56 through Carmel Valley. The plan requires a buffer zone between the freeway and surrounding land, extensive landscaping, limited lighting, and limited grading. In addition, the plan outlines steps that must be taken to protect wildlife and offset environmental damage caused by the freeway. But some residents living near the project asked for more restrictions, including an agreement that the freeway would never be widened beyond six lanes.
Columnist Advises Resident to Chill Out Regarding New Noisy Neighbors. The Detroit News printed a question-and-answer column in which a resident in Detroit, Michigan complains about the noisy activities of a new family in the neighborhood. The columnist advises the resident to talk to the family about their concerns, and to not expect that everyone will fit in with the view of a quiet neighborhood.
Columnist Ridicules Noise Rules Governing Canadian Folk Fest. The Calgary Sun printed an editorial that ridicules the noise rules governing the upcoming Calgary Folk Music Festival on Prince's Island in Calgary, Alberta. The columnist says the folk festival is singled out by residents in upscale neighborhoods, who have made local officials impose unnecessarily stringent regulations.
Florida City Council Rules That Resident Must Get Rid of Basketball Court. The Press Journal reports that the code enforcement board in Boca Raton, Florida voted 3-2 Monday that a resident has to get rid of a concrete slab in a vacant lot used as a makeshift basketball court because she couldn't produce a permit for the slab, which was poured in 1965. The issue arose when a resident who lives near the vacant lot complained about the noise from the basketball games.
Pittsburgh City Council Considers Lowering Decibel Limit for Car Stereos. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that the City Council in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will consider an ordinance Wednesday that would lower the lawful noise level for car stereos from 85 decibels to 68 decibels, the level used in New York City. The proposal would allow police to impound cars after a second citation.
Proposed Home Depot Store Meets With Resistance from New Hampshire Neighbors. The Union Leader reports that a public hearing was held last night at the planning board meeting in Merrimack, New Hampshire on a proposal for a Home Depot store on Route 101A. About 25 residents who live near the proposed store attended the meeting and raised concerns about noise, traffic and the store's proposed location on well-head property.
Virginia Residents Consider Suing Retirement Home Over Noise From Cooling Tower. The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that residents near Richmond, Virginia, in western Henrico County, are considering suing an upscale retirement community behind their homes over noise from the retirement home's cooling tower. The article says the homeowners' association recently hired a lawyer, and is considering asking officials to cite the retirement home under the county's noise ordinance.
Virginia Residents Raise Concerns About Noise Related to Interstate Widening Project. The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that about 80 residents of the Richmond, Virginia area attended a meeting yesterday about a proposed project to widen the Interstate 64 corridor between Richmond and Hampton. Concerns about increased noise dominated the meeting, the article says. The Virginia Department of Transportation (DOT), along with their consultants, are almost finished with their two-year study of the corridor, and are proposing six alternatives.
Washington County Commissioners Deny Wal-Mart Request to Rezone Property. The Spokesman-Review reports that commissioners in Spokane County, Washington Tuesday unanimously denied a request by Wal-Mart to rezone residential property for a regional shopping center on the north side of Seattle. Residents who had opposed the rezoning because of the size, lights, noise, traffic, and possible 24-hour operation of the store were thrilled with the decision. The article notes that Wal-Mart has not yet announced whether it will appeal the decision to the Superior Court.
Columnist Argues That Hong Kong Residents Don't Have a Case on Jet Noise From New Airport, But They Should Have Been Told About Flight Path Routes. The South China Morning Post printed an editorial in which the writer argues that residents complaining about jet noise coming from the flight paths of the new Chek Lap Kok airport in Hong Kong don't have a case against the government. But, the editorial says, the government should have informed residents about the flight path routes, or at least provided a channel through which they could easily find out the information.
Maryland State Officials Enlarge Airport Noise Zone, Throwing a Wrench in Developer's Plans. The Baltimore Sun reports that the Maryland Aviation Administration changed the noise zone boundary, an area in which homes cannot be built, for the Baltimore-Washington International Airport in March. That move has angered developer Earl Armiger, who already had started plans for a 31-home development in Elkridge that now falls within the noise zone. Armiger has appealed to the Board of Airport Zoning Appeals, asking for permission to build in the noise zone. The board is scheduled to hear the case on October 16.
New York Town Tables Proposal to Rescind Leaf-Blower Ban. Newsday reports that the City Council in Long Beach, New York tabled a proposal to rescind the ban on gas-powered leaf-blowers Tuesday, after an outpouring of opposition to the idea. Residents called for the ban to be enforced, while gardeners complained that they need leaf-blowers.
U.S. House Subcommittee Votes to Allow Denver Airport to Pursue Funding for Sixth Runway. The Denver Post reports that the House Appropriations subcommittee on transportation voted Wednesday to approve a $47 billion transportation spending bill for 1998-1999 that would allow the Denver (Colorado) International Airport to compete for funding to build a sixth runway. The article notes that the bill is scheduled to be voted on by the full House and Senate in coming weeks.
Environmental Impact Report of Redevelopment District in California City Finds Noise and Other Problems Can be Mitigated. The Los Angeles Times reports that Ventura, California City Council will hold a public hearing on August 26 to address a proposed redevelopment district. The project would improve the quality of many older, run-down buildings in an attempt to lure private investment in the area. An environmental report was drafted to consider the project, and five potential problems were outlined. They were traffic, school crowding, air pollution during construction, noise, and historic preservation. The problems can be planned for, however.
Gripe Session on Airport Issues Held in Rhode Island Town. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that about 165 residents attended a "gripe session" in Warwick, Rhode Island last night and aired their feelings about noise and development at the T.F. Green Airport. The session was held by City Councilor Gerry Gibbons. Also attending the meeting were Lincoln Chafee, Warwick's Mayor, George Zainyeh, the Democratic candidate for mayor, and Elaine Roberts, executive director of the state Airport Corporation.
Group Holds Annual Airport Noise Conference in Colorado. The Rocky Mountain News reports that the National Organization to Insure a Sound Controlled Environment (NOISE), based in Washington, is holding its annual conference through Saturday in Thornton, Colorado. The article notes that members of the group are mostly elected officials, but community groups and airport officials also belong to the organization.
Japanese Commission Says Railway Company Should Compensate Some Residents Near Track, But Residents Vow to Take Matter to Court. The Asahi News Service reports that Japan's Environmental Disputes Coordination Commission has said the Odakyu Electric Railway Company should compensate 34 Tokyo residents who experience noise levels of 70 decibels or more from nearby rail tracks. But the Commission said the rail company doesn't have to compensate many more residents who have complained about the noise and asked for a ruling from the Commission. According to Yasuyuki Kinoshita, a spokesperson for the residents, the residents will take the case to court to stop the company's plan to elevate the rail line.
Loud Movie Noise Levels is Becoming a Problem for Theater Owners. The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports that movies have been getting louder in recent years, and the issue is getting attention from theater owners, stereo industry representatives, and audiologists. The National Association of Theater Owners, for example, has formed a task force of theater executives and sound engineers to determine how loud is too loud for movies.
Maryland Residents and Developer Fight Over Rezoning Land for New Strip Mall. The Baltimore Sun reports that the Howard County Zoning Board in Ellicott City, Maryland considered a request yesterday about re-zoning a parcel of land across from the Long Gate Shopping Center on Montgomery Road from residential to commercial uses. Triangle Development Corporation wants to build a five store strip mall on the site, the article says. While nine residents objected to the re-zoning, saying the area is becoming too commercial, two residents living on the site support the re-zoning because, they said, the area has become intolerable due to noise, traffic, bright lights, and restaurant odors. The board is expected to make a decision Wednesday, the article says.
Police in New York Town Crack Down on Loud Car Stereos. The Buffalo News reports that police in Jamestown, New York have started to crack down on loud car stereos recently, after a new noise ordinance was passed by the City Council earlier this year. The article goes on to describe a citation that was issued by a police officer for a loud car stereo on Wednesday.
California State Legislator Revives Bill to Prohibit Local Leaf-Blower Bans; Bill Headed for Assembly Floor Vote. The Los Angeles Times reports that a state law -- that prohibits local bans on leaf-blowers -- which was originally proposed to counter Los Angeles' gas-fueled leaf-blower ban passed last January seems likely to pass. The bill failed last year, but now even those who oppose the bill say that it may pass due to Republican support. The Local Government Committee just passed it by 7-3, and the Assembly will vote soon.
Canadian Columnist Gives Long-Term Strategies for Reducing Noise and Air Pollution. The Gazette printed an editorial that argues to reduce noise and air pollution effectively, we need to price energy sensibly, pass common-sense environmental laws, and foster an aesthetic of peace and quiet. The editorial writer discusses some examples of noise problems and solutions in the Montreal, Quebec area.
Japanese Government Commission Recommends Rail Company Compensate Residents, But at Lower Level Than Previously Proposed. The Daily Yomiuri reports that Japan's Environmental Disputes Coordination Commission announced Friday that it would urge Odakyu Railway Company to pay 9.56 million yen in noise pollution damages to 34 people living near the company's tracks in Tokyo. But, the article says, the Commission rejected claims by 266 other people. The decision is seen as a victory for the rail company, the article notes. Some of the plaintiffs said they would appeal the decision to the Tokyo District Court.
Kentucky Residents Complain About Airport Noise. The Courier-Journal printed the following letters-to-the-editor from residents in Louisville, Kentucky, regarding noise from the airport:
Alabama Man Waits to Find Out Whether State Supreme Court Will Hear His Challenge of City Noise Ordinance. The Montgomery Advertiser reports that Eddie Lee Moore, a resident of Montgomery, Alabama, received a citation under the city's noise ordinance in 1996 for playing his car radio too loud. Now, Moore is waiting to hear whether the Alabama Supreme Court will hear his challenge to the constitutionality of the noise ordinance. The article notes that Moore is being represented by the American Civil Liberties Union.
Columnist Argues Pittsburgh Decibel Limit Should Be Lowered, But Questions Whether Lower Limit Can Be Enforced. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette printed an editorial that says a proposal in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to lower the permitted decibel limit is probably a good one. But, the editorial argues, it is difficult to imagine enough police enforcement to truly do away with noise pollution.
FAA Proposes New Flight Paths for Some Jets at Seattle Airport to Reduce Noise. The News Tribune reports that a new plan has been proposed that would shift some nighttime flight paths at the Sea-Tac Airport in the Seattle, Washington area to reduce noise over Federal Way. There are conflicting accounts of whether the plan has been proposed by the Federal Aviation Administration or the office of U.S. Representative Adam Smith. The article reports that a similar proposal involving daytime flights was rejected by the FAA in April, surprising and disappointing many local officials.
Florida Town Passes New Noise Restrictions After Making Concessions to Resort and Bar Owners. The St. Petersburg Times reports that the City Commission in St. Petersburg Beach, Florida unanimously approved changes to its noise ordinance last week after weakening the proposed rules in a concession to hotel owners. The article says that eight large resort owners had opposed the changes to the noise rules. But, Tuesday, hotel managers said the noise ordinance approved by the Commission would benefit both frustrated residents and hotel guests.
North Carolina Resident Says Officials Should Enforce a Noise Ordinance. The Herald-Sun printed a letter-to-the-editor from Jacqueline Harris, a Durham, North Carolina resident, arguing that the City and County Councils should enforce noise and health ordinances:
Officials and Residents Say Alabama City is Quieter Since Crackdown on Car Boom Boxes. The Montgomery Advertiser reports that residents and officials in Montgomery, Alabama say that since the Montgomery City Council called for aggressive enforcement of the noise ordinance and raised the minimum fine for violations in 1996, noise from loud car stereos has decreased.
Residents Continue Debate on Commercial Airport at California's El Toro Marine Base. The Los Angeles Times printed the following letters-to-the-editor from residents in the Irvine, California area regarding the proposed commercial airport at the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station:
Some Residents Angry at Hefty Fines for Noise Violations in New Jersey Shore Towns. The Record reports that towns along New Jersey's shoreline are attempting to keep life peaceful during the busy summer season by imposing stiff fines for noise pollution, disorderly conduct, and public urination. The rules have angered some residents, but local officials say the high fines are an effective deterrent.
California's Universal Studios Prepares to Start Major Construction Project. The Los Angeles Times reports that in Los Angeles, California the second phase of Universal Studios' proposed 3.3-million-square-foot expansion. The project in its entirety is being looked at by county planners. It's scale had been diminished after residents complained last year, but the second phase construction could bring the project up to the size of its original grandeur. The second phase would develop 250,000 square feet to eventually be used to expand Universal's City Walk attraction.
Columnist Says Ice Cream Trucks Shouldn't be Banned. The Detroit News printed an editorial in which the columnist says ice cream trucks should not be banned. He goes on to list the objections to ice cream trucks brought by many baby boomer parents, including the trucks' potential for accidents, the possibility that the trucks may be driven by pedophiles, and the trucks' noise. The columnist argues against all of these objections.
Disney Project in California Attempts to Mitigate Construction Impacts. 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.
Fight is Shaping up Over Proposal for Airpark in Kentucky. The Courier-Journal reports that a battle is shaping up over a proposal to build a 3,000-acre airport and industrial-park complex outside Bowling Green, Kentucky, near Smiths Grove, a town of about 700. Today, the article says, a feasibility study compiled by HNTB Corp. will be released that will identify at least two proposed sites for an airpark. Meanwhile, a residents group has formed that opposes the airpark.
Kentucky Newspaper Reader Asks Columnist to Get Rid of Loud Music in Neighborhood. The Courier-Journal printed a column in which a resident of Louisville, Kentucky wrote in to say that two garages in the neighborhood have become music halls for practicing bands. The resident asked the columnist to find out what can be done about the constant noise. The columnist responded by asking police officers to monitor the neighborhood, but police heard excessive noise on only one occasion. The columnist tells the reader to call the police when the music being played.
Knoxville, Tennessee, Plans to Update City's Noise Ordinance. 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.
Noise and Dust From California Development Projects Impact Residents. The Orange County Register reports that large and small construction projects in Orange County, California affect people who live nearby. The most common complaints from neighbors over construction are noise, dust, and aesthetics. The article goes on to briefly discuss each of these impacts.
Scottish Resident Upset About Neighbor's Plan for a Pigeon Loft. The Aberdeen Evening Express reports that a resident in the Aberdeen, Scotland area has applied for permission to build a loft for racing pigeons in the shared back yard of his council apartment. However, the article says, the next-door neighbor is opposing the plan, saying the pigeons will create noise and make a mess. Planning officers at the Aberdeen City Council have recommended that councilors approve the plan, and the issue will be discussed at Thursday's planning committee meeting.
The Devastating Effects of Noise Pollution and Some Ways to Ease its Impact. 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.
Florida Officials Pave Way for Large Development by Prohibiting Future Residents From Suing Over Aircraft Noise. The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that the City Council in Orlando, Florida voted on Monday to approve an agreement that mostly prohibits future residents in a project known as Vista East from suing nearby Orlando International Airport over airplane noise. The article explains that the council's action paves the way for the $500 million residential and commercial project to begin.
California County Votes to Ban Homeowners From Suing Proposed El Toro Airport Over Noise. The Los Angeles Times reports that Orange County, California supervisors decided to require "avigation easements" from all new homeowners near the proposed El Toro Airport. Mission Viejo Company, a developer, will now build 1,800 housing units. Anyone buying one of the units must sign an easement promising not to sue the airport over noise problems, but real estate agents are also required to disclose explicit details about potential jet noise.
California Resident Complains About Noise From Gun Range. The Ventura County Star printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Mike Barton, a Ventura, California resident, regarding noise from a gun range in the area:
Council of Staffordshire Moor-lands will Monitor Skate Ramp Noise. The Sentinel reports that noise generated by a skate ramp in Biddulph has become an irritant for nearby residents.
Hundreds Oppose Road Expansion in an Effort to Preserve Catholic Sisters’ Peace and Quietude in Dallas, Texas. The Dallas Morning News reports that over 310 letters have been sent to the city requesting that it alter its plans to expand Bowen and Sublett roads. Those writing the letters want the peace and quietude of a Carmelite convent preserved.
New Mexico Town Considers Exempting Ice Cream Trucks From Noise Ordinance. The Albuquerque Journal reports that the Village Council in Corrales, New Mexico will consider amending its noise ordinance to exempt ice cream truck vendors. The article says the council voted unanimously Tuesday to consider the issue next month.
Noisy Fans at Nuclear Plant Exceeds State Decibel Limits and Prompts Maine’s DEP Investigation. The Portland Press Herald reports the fans at Maine Yankee nuclear plant are generating noise that exceeds state limits in residential areas located up to two miles away. The noise has angered residents and prompted investigation by the Maine’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
Opponents of Sixth Runway at Denver International Airport Say Indicted Lobbyist Responsible for Ending Federal Ban on Funding. The Rocky Mountain News reports that opponents of a sixth runway at Denver International Airport (DIA) say the city used an indicted lobbyist to overturn a 3-year-old ban on federal funding for the project. According to the article, the federal ban was put in place to force Denver to address noise problems.
Study Finds 400 More Homes Will be Impacted by Noise in Burbank Air Traffic Growth. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that a study released Tuesday found that air traffic growth at the Burbank (California) Airport will increase the number of homes impacted by noise by about 400, raising the total to about 2,700, during the next 12 years. The report will be presented today to the airport's Community Study Advisory Committee, made up of airport officials and community stakeholders. The article notes that the study adds fuel to the long legal and political battle between airport and city officials over a proposed expansion at the airport. City officials want to replace the terminal but not expand the facility because of the potential increase in traffic and noise. Airport officials want to increase the airport form 14 to at least 19 gates for economic development and safety reasons.
Third Runway to be Built to Accommodate FedEx’s New Hub at Piedmont Triad International Airport in North Carolina. News & Record reports Piedmont Triad International Airport in North Carolina will open a new runway parallel to the existing main runway to accommodate extra flights expected from Fedex’s new hub.
Washington Columnist Tells Camper That Noise Wall Along Campground Isn't Likely. The Seattle Times printed a column in which a reader said he and his family like to camp at the Crystal Springs campground along Interstate 90 near Snoqualmie Pass in Washington. But, the reader said, the increase in traffic along the Interstate has made the campground very noisy. He asked who he can write to ask for a noise barrier separating the campground from the Interstate. The columnist responded that there is no chance of getting a noise wall built in that area.
Car Alarms Considered a Noisy Menace. The Vancouver Sun published the following editorial concerning the need to legislate against the menace of car alarms.
Experts Proposal Noise Reduction Measures for Burbank Airport. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that noise at the Burbank Airport could be reduced with night curfews, sound walls and re-routing of night flights. The recommendations were unveiled in a preliminary study made by Coffman Associates, a noise consultant hired by the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport.
Knott Berry Farms Tries to be a Better Neighbor in El Paso, California. 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. 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.
Local Noise Ordinance Enforced After Much Delay in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Deseret News published the following letter to the editor regarding the much-delayed enforcement of a local noise ordinance in Salt Lake City, Utah.
O’Hare Impact Study Warranted According to Mayor of Park Ridge, Illinois. Chicago Tribune published the following poignant commentary from the Mayor of Park Ridge, a suburb of Chicago, and neighbor to O’Hare International Airport. The commentary takes issue with the opinion of the Chicago Tribune’s editorial board which concluded that any review of the environmental impact of safety, noise and air pollution implications from a shift of 100 military slots at O'Hare International Airport to commercial usage will, in all likelihood, show minimal adverse impact.
Proposed Noise Ordinance Targets Loud Car Stereos and Receives Initial Approval from Pittsburgh’s City Council. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Mayor Murphy is expected to sign a noise ordinance if City Council gives its final approval August 3. The Council has already given preliminary approval to the ordinance, which provides tougher fines for noise violators and threatens repeat offenders with “booting” of their cars when the penalty fines are not paid.
Public Meeting for Neighbors Affected by Aircraft Noise in Chandler, Arizona. The Arizona Republic announced a public meeting July 30, 1998 to give residents a chance to talk about airplane noise and future development at Chandler Airport.
Tenants in London Flats Say They Will Take Their Noise Battle to the House of Lords. The Evening Standard reports that tenants in London’s council flats plan to take their grievance concerning inadequate soundproofing to the House of Lords. The Appeal Court recently ruled the council had no obligation to improve the soundproofing of the flats.
West City Council Approves New Noise Code; Neighbors in Fort Lauderdale Get Relief from Barking Dog. The Sun-Sentinel reports that Weston city council has approved a noise code prohibiting loud and raucous noise.
China Accesses the Number of People to be Affected by Proposed Flight Path. South China Morning Post reports that officials are being urged to provide more details on flight paths and the people affected by aircraft noise.
FAA and Congress Need to Help the Burbank Airport Reach a Positive Settlement. The Daily News of Los Angeles published the following editorial regarding the need to reach a positive settlement to reduce noise, eliminate safety hazards, and improve service at Burbank Airport in California.
Knottís Berry Farm Trys to Quiet New Ride for Neighbors in El Paso, California. The Los Angeles Times reports that a 312-foot-high ride called the Supreme Scream at Orange County's Knott's Berry Farm is the tallest structure in the county. After reprimands from the city, primed by resident complaints, alterations including new valves and a diffusers were added to quiet the ride.
National Organization to Insure a Sound-controlled Environment Elects New Executive Board at its Annual Symposium. The Rocky Mountain News reports that members of the National Organization to Insure a Sound-controlled Environment elected Mike Benallo, a councilman from Commerce City, president and Jo Thorne, a councilwoman from Thornton as vice-president.
Noise Mitigation Measures Need Consideration at Burbank Airport in California. The Los Angeles Times reports that Burbank Airport officials have proposed several noise-mitigation strategies, but a recent study says none of those may ever be implemented.
Aircraft Noise
Amplified Noise
Effects on Wildlife/Animals
Construction Noise
Firing Ranges
Health Effects
Home Equipment and Appliances
Industrial/Manufacturing
International News
Environmental Justice
Land Use and Noise
Lawsuits
Civil Liberty Issues
Miscellaneous Noise Stories
Noise Ordinances
Noise Organizations Mentioned
Outdoor Events
Noise in Our National Parks/Natural Areas
Regulation
Residential and Community Noise
Snowmobile and ATV Noise
Research and Studies
Technological Solutions to Noise
Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
Watercraft Noise
Workplace Noise