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
European Commission Plans to Ban "Hush Kitted" Planes by 2000. Air Cargo World reports the European Commission plans to ban "hush-kitted" planes in the near future.
California Neighbors Fight Church Over Noisy Services. The Los Angeles Times reports that in Costa Mesa, California, residents have pushed city officials to implement noise restrictions on a particularly noisy church. The building, which is used by Christ Our Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal Church as (COR-AME) well as the United Pentecostal Church, must keep its doors closed, minimize amplification, and avoid congregating in the parking lot. The Pentecostal Church will comply, but the other church has said it will continue its services as they have been conducted.
Canadian Airport Expansion Doesn't Address "Community Well-Being," Columnist Believes. The Calgary Herald printed an editorial by Ed McGowan, the former vice-president of the Inglewood Community Association, regarding the proposed expansion of the Calgary Airport in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The writer argues that the Calgary Airport Authority does not live up to its mission statement to provide airport services in conjunction with "community well-being." The editorial says the proposed expansion will increase aircraft noise in communities that are already under severe stress from the noise.
Dear Abby Column Advises Adults to Enjoy the Noise of Ice Cream Trucks. The Dallas Morning News printed a "Dear Abby" column, in which Abby advises a reader to not fight the noise of ice cream trucks, because the trucks are an American institution.
International Pilots Association Opposes Israeli Bill That Would Prosecute Pilots Who Violate Noise Abatement Procedures. Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that the International Federation of Air Line Pilots Associations (IFALPA) is concerned about legislation proposed in the Israeli Knesset that calls for criminal prosecution of pilots who violate noise abatement procedures. The bill was sent back for review after concerns were raised by IFALPA and the Israeli Air Line Pilots Association.
Opponents and Supporters Weigh in on Florida Airport Expansion. The Palm Beach Post printed a summary of what some of the key players are saying about jet noise and expansion at the Palm Beach (Florida) International Airport. The summary includes opinions of local politicians, lawyers, airport administrators, and residents.
Sign Warning People to Keep Quiet on Connecticut Beach is Turned Off Because it Was Too Noisy. The Associated Press reports that the mayor of West Haven, Connecticut has ordered a flashing sign that warned people to keep quiet at the beach to be turned off because it was too noisy. The sign was connected to a generator to power it.
British Residents Say Cargo Airport Development Will Create Unacceptable Noise, Air Pollution, and Traffic. The Northern Echo reports that residents in Britain's Northeast are fighting an airport development that would establish the country's second largest cargo handling center after Heathrow airport. A report created for the Darlington council has found that residents near the development will suffer more noise, pollution, and traffic congestion if the project goes forward. The report will be presented as evidence when a public inquiry into the project proposed by Moorfield Estates begins at the airport today, the article says.
Canadian Shakespeare Theater Company Wants Jet Ski Bylaw Enforced During Their Performances. The Calgary Herald reports that members of the Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan theater company in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan want the city police to enforce a bylaw that prohibits Jet Skis from using the portion of the South Saskatchewan River near the company's performance tents on the river banks.
Church Official Visits California Neighborhood During Church Service to Experience Noise Level. The Los Angeles Times reports that to determine how loud church services at the Christ Our Redeemer AME Church were, the vice president from Orange County's Interfaith Council stood outside for much of the service last Sunday. Residents said that the congregation was being quieter than usual because they knew that people were listening, but the council representative concluded that closing the doors seemed to contain the sound.
Florida County Planning Staff Recommends No Ban on Airboats on River. The Press Journal reports that planning staff members in Indian River County, Florida have recommended that the County Commission not pass a ban on airboats on the Sebastian River during its meeting today. Planning staffers said there is not enough evidence of negative impacts to ban airboats, but they did recommend consideration of banning all boats more than 25 feet in the narrow stretches of the river. The issue came before the commission after dozens of residents who live on or near the river in Roseland complained about noise from a commercial airboat tour operation. Meanwhile, officials in Brevard County are watching the vote closely, because they also have been asked to regulate airboats on their part of the river.
Illinois Town Denies Wal-Mart Expansion, Citing Noise Concerns. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that village board members in Lake Zurich, Illinois voted 5 to 1 Monday to deny a request for a Wal-Mart expansion. Some board members said Wal-Mart hadn't been a good corporate citizen, while others said the proposed expansion would locate truck traffic and noise closer to residences.
Police Step Up Patrols in Public Parks to Curb Noise from Teenage Motorcyclists in Nottingham and Boxtowe, England. The Nottingham Evening Post reports that teenage motorcyclists have been annoying residents in Nuthall streets and other areas around the city that are near Broxtowe Country Park in England. The article says police are stepping up patrols in the park to stop the youngsters who are riding there illegally.
Proposal to Turn Old Montreal's Main Street Into Car-Free Zone Upsets Residents. The Gazette reports that city officials in Montreal, Quebec are studying a proposal to turn St. Paul Street in Old Montreal into a car-free zone on weekends. The idea has been proposed by several merchants on the street, who are fed up with traffic jams and want more tourists on the narrow street. But some residents on the street oppose the idea, saying it will turn the street into a zone of noisy late-night restaurants. The article notes that a city committee has been formed to study the proposal.
Rhode Island Marina Gets Okay to Expand Despite Residents' Concerns About Noise. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Town Council in Barrington, Rhode Island voted 4 to 1 to approve a request from Brewer's Cove Haven Marina last night to re-zone Rodeo Drive from residential to waterfront business. The decision allows the marina to expand its business onto a 14,600-square-foot plot between Rodeo Drive and Bullock's Cove and south of marina's main property, the article notes. Residents living near the marina objected to the change, saying it could change the residential character of the neighborhood. The Town Council went against the advice of the Planning Board, which last week said that the marina's expansion was not consistent with town's Comprehensive Plan and may set a precedent for changing zoning on single plots.
Texas Judge Dismisses Three Noise-Related Lawsuits Against Airport. The Dallas Morning News reports that a judge last week dismissed three noise-related lawsuits by residents in Irving, Texas against the Dallas / Fort Worth International Airport. The decision has prompted airport officials to seek dismissals of more than 200 similar claims. Meanwhile, a lawyer for some of the residents said he is considering whether to appeal or seek a new trial.
Illinois Residents Oppose Softball Field Expansion. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that village officials in Lombard, Illinois recently approved a plan for three new softball fields at Madison Meadow park. But now, residents living near the park are saying they weren't told about the project, and are objecting that it would bring more traffic, noise, and trash to their neighborhood. A meeting is scheduled for June 9 between residents and parks district officials.
Louisiana Town Council Discusses How to Control Excessive Noise From Bars. The Advocate reports that the city council in Hammond, Louisiana discussed Tuesday what actions are being taken to monitor and control noise from bars and nightclubs on Nashville Avenue. The article notes that the council adopted a noise control ordinance affecting the area about eight months ago, but the ordinance has only recently started to be enforced. Meanwhile, Mayor Louis Tallo visited Nashville Avenue last Thursday night to monitor the noise level.
Maryland County Approves Plans for Massive Development, Pending Satisfactory Noise and Traffic Mitigation Measures. The Washington Post reports that the County Council in Prince George's County, Maryland voted 8 to 1 yesterday to approve plans for National Harbor, a massive entertainment and retail development, as long as the developer first addresses noise and traffic concerns. The decision came after the County Council created special rules for the project last summer to speed up its approval process, including a provision that stipulated the developer did not have to submit a detailed site plan for the project. The $1 billion project still must be approved by the National Capital Planning Commission, the article notes, which is conducting an environmental study of the project and is not expected to vote on the issue until late 1998 or early 1999.
New York Town Passes Ordinance to Control Noise from Leaf Blowers into the Future. Newsday reports that the town board in Huntington, New York unanimously passed an ordinance yesterday that bans leaf blowers that generate noise levels higher than 70 decibels by the year 2000. By 2003, leaf blowers are required not to be louder than 65 decibels, under the ordinance. The new ordinance is intended to work in conjunction with the current bylaw that bans leaf blowers during certain hours.
Noise at National Parks Creates High-Level Debate. The Gannett News Service reports that noise in U.S. national parks has created an intense debate between hikers, conservationists, personal watercraft manufacturers, tour plane operators, and the federal government. This summer, the article says, Congress and the Clinton administration are considering actions to lower human-made noise in national parks. In addition, the National Park Service intends to adopt strict rules regulating the use of personal watercraft, or Jet Skis. And, the Senate Commerce Committee is scheduled to vote this summer on a bill by its chair, John McCain (R-Arizona), to restrict tour planes and helicopters above national parks. At the same time, the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Park Service are working on a new regulation that would require each national park to adopt a management plan to detail how many sightseeing flights should be allowed and what routes they should take.
South Carolina Judge Rules He Doesn't Have Jurisdiction Over New Noise Issues Raised by Group Opposing Speedway. The Post and Courier reports that an administrative judge in South Carolina Tuesday ruled that he doesn't have jurisdiction to address issues raised by a group opposing the construction of a racetrack near Francis Beidler Forest outside Charleston, South Carolina. The group wanted to air their concerns about racetrack noise before the judge, especially in light of recent news that the forest might be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. But the judge ruled that he can't consider the issues unless the South Carolina Board of Health and Environmental Control returns the case to him for a new hearing. That board is expected to consider the matter this summer.
Amsterdam Airport Raises Fees for Noisy Aircraft Starting in August. AFX News reports that officials at the Schiphol Aiport in Amsterdam, Netherlands said they will raise the charges for daytime and nighttime landings and take-offs by the noisier Chapter 3 planes starting on August 1. The airport's actions come after the transport ministry approved the plans. The charges are intended to motivate airlines to fly quieter planes and to reduce night flights, according to airport officials.
English Residents Living Near Highway Get Money to Mitigate Traffic Noise. The Sentinel reports the Highways Agency in the United Kingdom will spend more than 400,000 pounds on noise insulation to protect residents along a section of the new A50 highway in Stoke-on-Trent, England. The article notes that 164 residents have applied for noise mitigation measures, and the government will spend about 2,500 pounds per home for the insulation measures.
Pennsylvania Towns Oppose Bus-Only Roadway. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that officials in Edgewood and Swissvale, Pennsylvania, as well as officials in some other Pittsburgh suburbs, plan to step up their opposition to a planned extension of the Martin Luther King Jr. East Busway. Officials said they oppose the bus-only roadway extension because of the additional air pollution, noise pollution, additional traffic, and unsightly noise walls it would create.
Scottish Hotel Owner Threatens Neighbors With More Noise After They Object to Hotel's Extended Hours. The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports that a hotel owner in Ballater, Scotland threatened neighbors with loud music after the neighbors objected to plans to extend the hours of operation of the hotel. The Aberdeenshire (South) licensing board yesterday approved the hotel owner's application for extended hours for six months, on the understanding that the owner seeks advice from Aberdeenshire Council's environmental health department on noise control.
Colorado Air National Guard Base Releases Noise and Safety Study. The Denver Post reports that officials at Colorado's Buckley Air National Guard released results on Thursday of a noise and safety study that looked at impacts on Aurora and Arapahoe County, the communities most affected by the base's aircraft operations. The study, known as the Department of Defense's Air Installation Compatible Use Zone Study, was intended to provide non-binding guidelines for local governments as they develop land-use plans in areas surrounding the military installation. The article notes that although residents living near the base have complained about the noise, the city of Aurora has continued to approve residential developments near the base.
Illinois Town Considers New Ordinance to Limit Noise. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that trustees in Winfield, Illinois considered a draft noise ordinance Thursday that would levy fines for "excessive, unnecessary or unusually loud noise." According to village officials, the ordinance was drawn up in response to people complaining about noisy pets.
Japanese Residents Won't Appeal Jet Noise Compensation Ruling. The Japan Economic Newswire reports that residents who filed suit against the Japanese government for noise from the U.S. Kadena air base in Japan will not appeal a high court ruling that ordered the government to compensate the residents for noise pollution from military aircraft. The ruling was issued by the Naha branch of the Fukuoka High Court on May 22, and it ordered the government to compensate 867 people of the 906 who requested compensation, but rejected arguments to halt night flights at the base.
Maine Town Rewrites Proposed Noise Ordinance to Allow Community Events. The Bangor Daily News reports that the Town Council in Pittsfield, Maine held a public hearing on a proposed noise ordinance Tuesday that would ban noisy behavior between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. Residents who supported and opposed the ordinance turned out for the meeting, the article says. Those who opposed the ordinance were worried that it would prohibit high school events and other community activities. In response to residents' concerns, a group of residents, police officers, and town officials reworked the proposed ordinance Wednesday night to allow community and school events to occur. The council will consider the matter again at their June 16 meeting. Meanwhile, the article says, police officers say even if an ordinance is passed, they have no way to enforce it.
Ohio Politicians Win Concessions from Railroad Companies Seeking Changes to Freight Traffic. The Plain Dealer printed an editorial that argues the mayors in the Cleveland, Ohio area, along with congressional representatives, should feel they've served their constituents well in their successful campaigns to win concessions from two major railroads seeking to alter the pattern of freight traffic through Northeast Ohio. The editorial says that Representative Dennis Kucinich and Cleveland Mayor Michael White were especially successful in getting CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern to commit tens of millions of dollars to mitigate the impact on residents living near the tracks.
Railroad Agrees to Spend $13.1 Million to Mitigate Noise on Ohio Tracks. The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland (Ohio) Mayor Michael White and officials from CSX Transportation agreed yesterday in a last-minute deal to a plan that would help mitigate noise if a proposed railroad merger goes forward. CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Railroads have proposed purchasing and dividing the Conrail lines through Cleveland, and the federal Surface Transportation Board currently is considering the deal. But many local officials initially opposed the plans, and Mayor White was set to register his objections to the merger yesterday before he reached an agreement with railroad officials. CSX officials agreed to pay $13.1 million to help offset the noise and potential environmental and safety hazards anticipated in Cleveland due to the increased train traffic, and to divert some trains away from East Side neighborhoods. The federal agency is expected to rule on the merger on Monday.
Residents Complain About Noise From Massachusetts Wal-Mart. The Telegram & Gazette reports that residents living near a Wal-Mart on Route 12 in West Boylston, Massachusetts have long complained about noise from the store. The dispute may be nearing resolution, the article says, but if it does not end soon, town officials are ready to take the company to court for not complying with noise regulations. Town officials say representatives from the store have made promises in the past and have not lived up to them.
Chicago Noise Commission Seeks Commitment From Air Cargo Companies to Phase Out Noisier Jets Ahead of Schedule. The Chicago Tribune reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission, a Chicago group formed by the city's mayor, has decided to seek a written commitment from the air cargo carriers at O'Hare International Airport to phase out older, noisier aircraft engines before the year 2000. (By 2000, all jets must comply with quieter, Stage 3 noise standards set by federal regulations.) The article says that the decision was the result of a "cargo summit" meeting held May 28 between the commission and representatives of 10 air cargo carriers.
City Councilor Proposes Allowing International Flights at Burbank, California Airport. The Los Angeles Times reports that right in the middle of the ongoing debate over expansion at Burbank, California's Burbank Airport, a Pasadena representative from the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority suggested the introduction of international flights at the airport. He wants a feasibility study to be done before a design is approved for the proposed 19-gate terminal.
Ohio Residents Battle Truck Noise and Dust From Noisy Warehouse. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that residents in Cincinnati, Ohio are complaining about the noise, dust, and other problems at the Carthage Mills warehouse complex near their homes. In response to the problem, Cincinnati Mayor Roxanne Qualls has introduced a motion that would change the zoning in the area to residential uses only, which would force Carthage Mills to move.
Resident in a New York Town Asks for Another Town's Noise Barriers. The Buffalo News printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Dana Kaczmarek, a Lackawanna, New York resident. Kaczmarek notes that officials have decided to remove the toll barrier in Williamsville, and asks that the noise barriers at Williamsville be moved to the Lackawanna toll barrier:
Residents Object to New Nightclub in Scotland, But City Recommends Approval. The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports residents in Aberdeen, Scotland are protesting a bid to convert the Q Brasserie on Alford Place from a restaurant into a nightclub. Residents say there already are many nightclubs in the area, and another one would only increase the levels of late-night noise and disturbances. But, the article says, Peter Cockhead, the city's planning and strategic development director, has recommended that the change be allowed. The planning (development control) committee will consider the application next Thursday.
Seattle Set to Approve Floatplane Takeoffs and Landings Near Downtown Pier. The Seattle Times reports that city officials in Seattle, Washington are set to approve a project that would allow float-planes to take off and land 72 times a day near Pier 54 on Elliott Bay, after reviewing the proposed project for more than a year. If permitted, the project would allow Kenmore Air to operate 20-minute scenic trips from a 25-foot float off the pier. Meanwhile, some residents who live in the downtown are opposing the project, saying it will bring more noise. If the project is approved, the article notes, it likely will be appealed and will face a more lengthy review.
Texas City Settles Lawsuit With Nightclubs Suing to Overturn Noise Ordinance. The Austin American-Statesman reports that officials with the City of Austin, Texas have settled a lawsuit with the East Sixth Street Community Association and 10 nightclubs that had sued to overturn the city's noise ordinance. The article explains that the noise ordinance will stay in effect, but police will adopt new methods and use new equipment to measure the noise coming from nightclubs.
Macho Men Buy Increasingly Larger Power Lawn Tools, Causing Noise and Air Pollution. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that this year, Americans will purchase more than 22 million gas-powered lawn and garden tools -- a record number, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The article says large lawn tools, purchased and used by men, has become a social phenomenon of the 1990s suburbs. But, the article says, the large lawn tools produce excessive noise and air pollution.
Massachusetts Zoning Board Rules that Quarry Violates Noise Bylaws. The Sunday Telegram reports that the Zoning Board of Appeals in Lancaster, Massachusetts has upheld a March ruling by the city Building Inspector that the quarry owned by P.J. Keating Co. is violating town bylaws governing noise from blasting and truck traffic, and must be closed down. A cousin of the quarry owner last year asked the Building Inspector to issue a cease and desist order for noise at the quarry, after the cousin was denied a permit to open a competing quarry in the same area due to noise issues.
Resident Decries Residential Development Near California Airport. The Los Angeles Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Sal Del Valle, a resident of North Hills, California, regarding jet noise and residential development near the Van Nuys Airport:
Florida City Tightens Nighttime Noise Ordinance to Deal With Noisy Bars. The St. Petersburg Times reports that the City Commission in St. Petersburg Beach, Florida voted unanimously last week to toughen rules restricting nighttime noise. The ordinance changes were prompted by residents' complaints about noisy bars. The new ordinance is scheduled for final approval at the commission's June 16 meeting.
Los Angeles School District Installs Air Conditioners in Schools That Exceed District's Own Noise Limits. The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that the Los Angeles (California) Unified School District is using funds from Proposition BB to install air conditioners in schools that exceed the maximum noise levels set by the district. According to the article, the school district resisted efforts to allow experienced companies do the work, approved purchasing air conditioning units that exceed noise limits, and insisted that units be mounted rigidly against walls, which increases noise. Officials from the school district acknowledge the problem, but said they overlooked the noise issues in order to get air conditioning in the schools as soon as possible. So far, about 3,300 air conditioning units have been installed, most of them in San Fernando Valley schools. The district is not yet taking steps to remediate the situation, and installation of the noisy units continues.
Proposed 24-Hour Gas Station Angers Pennsylvania Residents. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that residents are objecting to a 24-hour gas station proposed for Route 19 in Peters Township, Pennsylvania, saying the development will create constant noise, traffic, and bright lighting near their homes.
Recently Installed Air Conditioners Exceed District's Own Noise Levels in Some Los Angeles Classrooms. The Orange County Roster reports that air conditioners installed in classrooms are operating above maximum noise levels set by the school district. The noise problem was caused in part by improper installation by city school officials and may take decades to correct. In the meantime, audiologists say noise levels such as those found recently in LAUSD classrooms may make learning difficult.
Missouri Residents Oppose Plan for Shopping Center in Rural Area Due to Noise and Traffic. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Planning and Zoning Commission in Wildwood, Missouri is considering a plan to re-zone 18 acres of land from residential to commercial use, paving the way for a shopping center at Highways 100 and 109. But residents attending a meeting of the commission said they opposed the project because it would increase noise and traffic, and destroy the green space and rural atmosphere of the town.
Maine Neighborhood Near Interstate Will Get Noise Barrier. The Bangor Daily News reports that officials with the Maine Department of Transportation announced Monday that they will spend $200,000 for a noise barrier along the Interstate 95 Broadway exit in Bangor, Maine. The article says that the noise wall would be the first such wall in Maine. Previously, state policy didn't allow the state to construct noise mitigation projects on existing highways, the article notes.
Developers' Plans to Build Subdivision Near Tennessee Army Helicopter Base is Scuttled. The Tennessean reports that plans for a subdivision near the Fort Campbell Military Reservation near Clarksville, Tennessee have been scuttled due to concerns about noise from the Sabre Army Heliport and other reasons. Developers say that Army officials did not raise noise concerns until they already had invested money in roads and other infrastructure for the subdivision. Now, developers believe they have no alternative but to sell the land to the Army, but say they stand to lose millions on the deal.
Developers of Residential Subdivision in Nebraska Purchase Racetrack to Eliminate Noise Problem. The Omaha World-Herald reports that developers of the Deer Creek subdivision in Omaha, Nebraska have purchased the Sunset Speedway at 114th and State Streets so that the presence of the track wouldn't deter residents from purchasing the upscale homes. The racetrack will close after its racing season in 2000, and owners expect to relocate the track to a new site.
New Jersey Town Considers Noise Ordinance to Restrict Gardening and Construction Hours. The Asbury Park Press reports that the Borough Council in Spring Lake, New Jersey introduced a noise ordinance last night that would restrict lawn mowing, leaf blowing, construction, and other activities to certain hours. The article notes that a public hearing is scheduled on the proposed ordinance for June 22.
Residents Hope Noise Ordinance Will Be Unaffected by Judicial Hearing in Orange County, California. Orange County Register reports that residents are worried about the $16 million settlement won by the Orange County Fair in a dispute over its purchase of the Pacific Amphitheater.
Retailers in Oklahoma Town Worry That Proposed Wal-Mart Will Increase Rent and Noise. The Daily Oklahoman reports that the City Council in Norman, Oklahoma will decide later this month whether to grant requests to Wal-Mart to build super-centers in east and west Norman. Meanwhile, some retailers near the proposed stores are complaining that the super-centers would increase rents at their locations and would increase noise.
Planning Commission Decides to Table Proposed Noise Ordinance in Steator, Illinois. The Pantagraph reports that a noise ordinance was introduced to the Plan Commission in Streator, Illinois on Tuesday night. The commission decided to table the measure for further study.
Illinois Town Plan Commission Tables Proposed Noise Ordinance for Further Study. The Pantagraph reports that the Plan Commission in Streator, Illinois on Tuesday decided to table a proposed noise ordinance for further study. The decision came after two city councilors said they did not support the ordinance. The city manager drafted the noise ordinance, the article explains, but was held up in traffic in St. Louis and was not able to attend Tuesday's meeting to explain and defend the ordinance.
Florida Residents Complain About Truck Noise at Spring Water Plant. The Sun-Sentinel reports that residents in Tamarac, Florida living near the Zephyrhills Spring Water distribution center have raised complaints about the noise from the company's delivery trucks. The article explains that the border between Tamarac and Fort Lauderdale is located between the neighborhood and the plant, creating jurisdictional difficulties in addressing the problem.
Judge to Rule on Sound Limits at Pacific Amphitheater in Orange County, California. The Orange County Register reports that Judge Robert E. Thomas is scheduled to rule on the validity of Orange County's noise restrictions at a hearing June 30. The ruling will be made in relation to Pacific Amphitheater, a 18,500-seat venue owned by the Orange County Fair.
Railroad Company Says it Will Build Rail Yard in Texas City, Against City's Wishes. The Dallas Morning News reports that officials with the Kansas City Southern Railway Company said Wednesday they would build a 15-track rail yard in Wylie, Texas. The rail yard was part of a controversial project proposed by the railroad that voters rejected almost a year ago. The railroad company no longer plans to build a business park and truck shipping center, which were part of the earlier project, the article says. City officials fear that building a rail yard will leave the city with more trains and noise, but no economic gain. Residents who fought the earlier proposed project were dismayed at the announcement.
California Churches Debate Whether to Oppose Commercial Airport at El Toro. The Los Angeles Times reports that Orange County, California religious leaders are debating whether to join together and oppose the proposed El Toro airport. Some say they will because they don't want jets flying over their places of worship, while others say that airport opposition is not in their mission.
Editorial Writer Says FedEx Hub in North Carolina Would Be a Disaster. The News & Record printed an editorial that argues a proposed FedEx cargo hub and new runway in Greensboro, North Carolina would be a disaster for the thousands of residents who live nearby and for the larger community. The writer goes on to give several arguments against a FedEx hub, and suggestions about better locations for the facility.
Newport Beach, Calif. Seeks to Restrict Noise from Bars and Restaurants. The Orange County Register reports California's Newport Beach City Council on Monday voted to strengthen code enforcement to monitor noise coming from bayfront eateries, and require acoustical studies for all future bayfront restaurants.
Ohio Neighbors Upset About Quarry Noise; No Relief is in Sight. The Columbus Dispatch reports that Yvette and Leon Blauvelt, residents of Hamilton Township, Ohio, have complained about noise from a sand and gravel operation near their home. But after investigating the complaints, Columbus officials have said the quarry doesn't violate any city zoning regulations.
Minnesota City Sues Airport Commission Over Shifting Jet Noise to Their Community. The Star Tribune reports that the city of Richfield, Minnesota is suing the Metropolitan Airports Commission in the U.S. Court of Appeals for shifting jet noise from the Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport to their community. City officials are suing to stop the daily use of the airport's crosswind runway that has shifted flights away from south Minneapolis and sent them over Richfield and Bloomington instead. The court case is expected to last at least two months, the article says.
Missouri Airport Agrees to Spend $35 Million to Build New Schools. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the St. Louis (Missouri) Airport Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to spend up to $35 million to acquire land from the Ferguson-Florissant School District in Berkeley, near Lambert Field. The money will be used to purchase about 30 acres where Berkeley High School and four other district buildings are located, and will be used to build a new high school and elementary school. The article notes that the offer needs the approval of the city of St. Louis, as well as the Federal Aviation Administration, which have gone along with the proposal so far. The project is part of the airport's long-range plan to buy property because of airport noise, the article says, but is not related to the proposed airport expansion, according to Leonard Griggs, the airport director.
Local Missouri Officials Will Meet With FAA Over Airport Expansion Plan. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that officials in St. Charles County and Bridgeton, Missouri will meet Tuesday with Susan Kurland, the associate administrator for airports at the Federal Aviation Administration, over plans to expand Lambert Field. According to Joe Ortwerth, a St. Charles County Executive, the meeting should resolve whether the FAA will conduct a "real time" simulation study that would produce data about the noise levels of the proposed expansion.
Malaysia's Environment Department to Submit Report on Noise and Vibration from Power Plant. AP Worldstream reports that according to an article in The New Straits Times, Malaysia's State Department of Environment has been asked to submit a detailed report on the alleged noise pollution and vibration from a power plant. Residents of Taman NLFCS in Tanjong Gemuk, Port Dickson, say the noise and vibration have caused cracks in the roads of their housing development. According to Menteri Besar Tan Sri Mohamad Isa Abdul Samad, the State Public Works Department also will conduct tests to determine the cause of the problem in the roads.
Canadian Folk Festival Music Permit is Appealed by Residents Who Want No Late-Night Music. The Calgary Herald reports that residents in the Hillhurst-Sunnyside area of Calgary, Alberta are appealing a festival permit of the Calgary Folk Festival that allows musicians to perform after 10 p.m. on two nights next month at Prince's Island Park, a festival site. The article says that the city waived its own noise bylaw to allow the music to play until 11 p.m. on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. The appeal will be heard before the city's license appeal board next Thursday, the article notes.
Early Morning Truck Noise Angers Colorado Residents and Sparks Zoning Debate. The Denver Post reports that residents in Commerce City, Colorado are opposing the proposed re-zoning of a lot to industrial use due to the noise from early morning trucks at the site. The article notes the land is zoned for agricultural uses, but the owner said he has been used the property for industrial purposes and paying industrial taxes since 1958. County commissioners believe they may have reached a compromise, the article says.
Legality of Private Go-cart Track Questioned in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that private property owners have threatened to sue the Town Board for its decision to stop construction of a private go-cart track.
Illinois Transportation Official Ties New Runway at O'Hare to Future Success of Airport. The Chicago Tribune reports that Kirk Brown, the Illinois Transportation Secretary, said Thursday in a speech to north suburban business executives and transportation officials in Deerfield that without a new runway, Chicago's O'Hare International Airport will continue to lose domestic flights, diminishing its national role and travel options for residents. Brown said later that he wasn't advocating a new runway at O'Hare, which would put him at odds with Governor Jim Edgar. Meanwhile, opponents of O'Hare expansion said Brown's remarks were troubling.
Almost 90 Percent of Planes at Phoenix Airport Meet Quieter Standards; Residents Say They Can't Hear the Difference. The Arizona Republic reports that 86 percent of planes at the Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Arizona have achieved stricter federal standards for noise, according to airport officials. By the end of 1999, all commercial jets are required by federal law to be equipped with the quieter engines, the article notes. But some residents who live in the airport's flight path say they don't notice any difference.
Florida's Sleep Deprived Residents in Ocean Ridge Complain about Restaurant's Amplified Music; Restaurant Owners Say They Will Conduct Self-Monitoring of Noise Levels. The Sun-Sentinel reports that residents living at Ocean Ridge complain they have gotten little sleep for the last 1 1/2 years due to the amplified music that plays at the Banana Boat Restaurant located across from the Intracoastal Waterway in Boynton Beach. Restaurant owners, Tom Blum and John Therien, are looking into the issue and have said they will monitor the noise levels when bands play Thursday through Sunday evenings.
Noise Demonstration Set for El Toro Base Reuse Project in Irvine, California. The Orange County Register reports that commercial jetliner flight demonstrations have been scheduled for October at El Toro Marine Corps Air Station to show the public what noise would be like if the military base were converted to an international airport.
Noise Mitigation Efforts Accompany Expansion at California's Palm Springs Regional Airport. The Public Record-Palm Desert reports June 8 marked the start of an expansion project at California's Palm Springs Regional Airport. Palm Springs' Director of Transportation, Al Smoot, explained to a group the benefits the expansion will provide. He also outlined noise mitigation efforts that are included in the expansion.
Columnist Believes County Governments Should Regulate Quarry Mining in New Jersey. The Record printed an editorial which describes the extensive quarry mining industry in Passaic County, New Jersey, and the long fight between miners and residents over noise, dust, vibration, and other problems. The editorial argues that both the state and local governments regulate facets of quarry mining, and the system is not working. County governments are better suited to regulate the industry, the editorial says.
Opponents of California Gravel Pit Operation Sue County. The Press-Enterprise reports that opponents of the Owl Rock gravel pit project near Riverside, California have filed suit against Riverside County and its supervisors, alleging officials failed to properly assess the impact of the project when reconsidering it in December. The article says that Rural Communities United, a group of property owners, residents, and business owners, filed suit June 1 in Riverside Superior Court. The group asks that County Supervisors hold new hearings and rescind their approval of the project's environmental impact report. In addition, the article reports, the group is seeking an injunction to prevent any work from being started at the site.
Austrian Noise Activists Block Major Highway to Protest European Union Policy That Allows Large Trucks on All Highways. The Deutsche Presse-Agentur reports that hundreds of noise activists in Austria on Friday blocked one of Europe's major alpine highways, the E45 motorway near Innsbruck and the Brenner Pass, in a 28-hour protest against European Union policies that keep all highways open to huge trucks. The article says Austrians are fed up with the noise and fumes in their scenic valleys caused by heavy trucks on their alpine highways en route between Italy and Germany.
Residents Object to Proposed New Runway at Florida Airport. The Tampa Tribune reports that county planners in Tampa, Florida will discuss building another runway and other growth issues at Tampa International Airport on Monday night. Members of the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority will present a master plan at the meeting that includes adding a third north-south runway sometime after 2008, the article says. Residents living near the airport oppose a third runway, but according to airport officials, a third runway would reduce noise.
Missouri Residents and Shopping Center Developers Try to Find Compromise. The Kansas City Star reports that residents of the Foxridge subdivision in Kansas City, Missouri met earlier this week with developers of Olathe Station, a proposed shopping and entertainment complex at 119th Street and Strang Line Road, to discuss details of the development. The article explains that when the project was first proposed two years ago, residents and developers quickly took sides against each other. Now, they are trying to resolve their differences and mitigate potential noise pollution and other problems for residents.
Indiana Residents Question Highway Officials About Road Widening Project. The Indianapolis Star reports that residents in Noblesville, Indiana who will be affected by the proposed widening of 146th Street, questioned Hamilton County highway officials this week about the noise, safety, and necessity of the project. The article notes that the county will hold four more public meetings next week to discuss the proposed project.
Noise Ordinance Passes in Readfield, Maine. The Kennebec Journal reports that residents went against their selectmen's recommendation and voted to pass a noise ordinance at a recent town meeting in Readfield. According to the article, the ordinance sets standards for reviewing noise complaints from new development. The selectmen felt the ordinance was unnecessary and further inhibited development in the town.
Transalpine Highway Blocked by Austrian Anti-noise Protesters. The Deutsche Presse-Agentur reports that about 4,000 demonstrators shut down the Brenner Pass Friday, June 10 in protest against European Union policies that keep all highways open to huge trucks. Austrians are fed up with the noise and fumes of 1.2 million trucks using the pass each year. According to the article that number is a 50 percent increase since 1990 and is due to increased cross-border trade that is in line with European Union policies.
Proposal to Land More Planes at California Airport Has Some Calling for More Noise Study. The Ventura County Star reports that a sub-committee of the Aviation Advisory Commission in Camarillo, California reviewed a proposal Thursday to allow additional Boeing 727 planes to land at the Camarillo Airport. Channel Islands Aviation wants to land one or two Boeing 727s per week in order to refurbish them and increase their cargo capacity. In addition, the company wants to build a large hangar to perform the retrofitting work. The plan must be approved by the Board of Supervisors and the city of Camarillo, and now will move to the full Aviation Advisory Commission, the article notes.
Bells in Harvard Square Strike Discord with Neighbors in Cambridge. The Boston Globe reports that the bells at St. Paul Church in Harvard Square though silent for a half-century are now refurbished and chiming every quarter hour. The sound is pleasantly reminiscent to some, but annoying to many others.
Contemporary Annoyances of 'Unwanted Sound' in Great Britain. The Observer published the following article concerning contemporary annoyances of noise as "unwanted sound".
Maryland Navy Base Proposes More Flights; Public Makes Few Comments at Hearing. The Washington Post reports that the Patuxent River Naval Air Station in St. Marys County, Maryland wants to expand its flight operations. Officials at the base held the first of four public hearings on the proposal Wednesday, drawing a crowd of about 50 people. The meeting didn't provoke much comment or controversy, the article says.
Residents Say New Muffler Rule at Racetrack Has Not Decreased Noise in Asheville, North Carolina. The Asheville Citizen-Times reports that some residents say they haven't noticed a difference since tighter noise restrictions were implemented at the speedway in Asheville, North Carolina. But the track's owner says he's measured a drop in noise since the new muffler rule went into effect.
Las Vegas Residents and Business Owners Question McCarran Airport's Agenda in Widespread Buyout Tactics. The Las Vegas Business Press reports some residents and business owners in areas surrounding Las Vegas are questioning the agenda of McCarran International Airport's seemingly aggressive but selective buyout procedures.
The Department of Transportation Releases $2.5 Million to Acquire Land for Noise Compatibility Purposes at the Baton Rouge Airport, Louisiana. The following Congressional Press Release announced that the East Baton Rouge Parish would receive $2.5 million from the Department of Transportation to acquire land for noise compatibility at the Baton Rouge airport.
City Councilors Angered at Limited Penalty Fees Required of Noise Nuisance Neighbor in Gloucester, England. The Gloucester Citizen reports that angry city councilors agreed to explore new measures for dealing with people who create a noise nuisance.
Claim Made that a Labor Federal Government Would Ensure A Decrease in Noise Impact from Airport in Adelaide, Australia. Australian General News reports that a spokesperson for the opposition transport, Lindsay Tanner, said today that a Labor federal government would decrease the impact of aircraft noise around Adelaide Airport. "A Labor government will ensure that every home in Australia seriously affected by aircraft noise is entitled to equal access to insulation," Tanner was quoted saying in the article.
FAA Funds Received by Baton Rouge's Metro Airport to Soundproof 87 Homes. The Advocate reports that 87 families living near the Baton Rouge Metro Airport could begin to see some reduction of jet noise in their homes. Over the last 12 years Baton Rouge's Metro Airport has participated in a noise reduction program. During that time, $25 million has been spent buying property, relocating families and repairing homes and schools.
New Zealand's Palmerston North Airport and Its Surrounding Development Given New Limits. The Evening Standard reports that new noise limits for Palmerston North Airport in New Zealand have been set. The limits were set after consideration was given on the parts of the Manawatu District Council, the Palmerson North City Council, and Palmerston North Airport Company.
Proposed Noise and Public Conduct Ordinance in Pittsfield, Maine Revised Again. The Central Maine Morning Sentinel reports that the town's proposed noise and public conduct ordinance has been modified. Some of the original elements of the ordinance were considered unenforceable and state law already covered others so the council submitted it to a Portland law firm to be rewritten.
Residents of Riverdale, New Jersey Suffer from Non-Stop Quarry Blasts; Legal Restraints Prevent Local Regulation. The Record reports that city officials have decided to hold back on adopting an ordinance to regulate stone quarry operations because they want the ordinance to be legally unassailable. A proposed amendment to the ordinance was tabled giving the mayor and council extra time to enable city officials to hire experts and complete several reports to tailor the ordinance.
Sky Harbor International Airport in Arizona Announces That it is Keeping Flights on Track with One Million Dollar Monitoring System. The Arizona Republic reports that their one million-dollar monitoring system at Sky Harbor International Airport indicates that about 95 percent of airplanes follow the correct flight pattern after they take off. Officials at Sky Harbor International Airport officials announced plans June 15 to keep even more flights on track to protect neighborhoods from noise caused by departing planes. They hope to increase compliance to 97 or 98 percent.
Airport-Area Residents, Pilots, and Airport Officials Try Program to Alleviate Aircraft Noise at the Sante Fe Municipal Airport. The Sante Fe New Mexican reports that airport neighbors are asking administrators at Sante Fe Municipal Airport to make changes that will lower the impact of noise. Airport-area residents - called Friends of Noise Abatement - hope a trial program will help reduce the aircraft noise and alleviate the need to advocate for more restrictive regulation by local government.
City Councilman and Neighbor Want Music from Noisy Ice Cream Truck Either Turned Down or Eliminated in Warren, Michigan. The Detroit News reports that the amplified music from boom box ice cream vendors peddling neighborhoods has mother, Diane Biskner, and Warren Councilman, Cecil St. Pierre, pushing for a new noise ordinance in Warren, Michigan.
National Parks Service Proposes Ban on Jet-Propelled Water Skis, with Limited Exceptions. The Seattle Times reports that the week of June 15, National Parks Service proposed a ban on personal watercraft from thousands of pristine lakes and rivers in national parks, while simultaneously permitting them on waterways where they have traditionally been used. The proposal from the parks services does not establish the complete ban sought by some environmentalists, but it does effectuate a total ban in some areas.
Pittsfield City Council Adopts Noise and Conduct Ordinance in Maine. The Central Maine Morning Sentinel reports that the Town Council passed a noise and public conduct ordinance. The ordinance is intended to discourage late-night noise and vandalism in downtown Pittsfield where, according to officers, the behavior of teen-agers and young adults has been a problem for the town for many years.
Speedway Expansion Challenged by Residents' Group in Loudon, New Hampshire. The Union Leader reports that the New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS) track in Loudon, New Hampshire admitted in court that it built more seats than permitted by the Loudon Planning Board. A citizens' group opposed to the expansion are taking legal action.
St. Paul City Council To Consider Emergency Measure to Ban Late-Night Train Whistles in Minnesota. The Minneapolis Tribune reports the St. Paul City Council will be asked to consider an emergency ordinance to end late-night train whistles that are disturbing the sleep of hundreds of St. Paul residents.
The City of Woonsocket, Rhode Island Responds to Night Noises with a Police Crackdown. Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that 57 tickets written by police officers June 13-14 under the resuscitated noise ordinance in Woonsocket. Officers wrote the tickets to persons riding loud motorcycles, driving cars with thumping stereos and disturbing their neighbors' night peace.
Aim to Quieten Noisy-Nighttime Cruisers near Sante Fe's Tourist Areas Calls for Careful Consideration of Possible Solutions. The Santa Fe New Mexican reports their opinion concerning the noise from youth cruising in their automobiles. The cruisers reportedly use a route along the Santa Fe River that passes in front of one of Sante Fe's finer hotels, the Inn of Governors. The article reports that the city's public safety committee want to block off the route for four hours along those portions that are near the hotels at 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The paper suggests instead that signs be put up saying the noise ordinance will be strictly enforced along the relevant streets where the public peace is being threatened and then use a tough enforcement measures on its violators.
New Citizens' Group Organizes around Noise Issues at O'Hara International Airport in Chicago, Illinois. Chicago Tribune reports that another group of residents critical about the noise from O'Hare International Airport has organized.
Noise From a Skating Park Has Homeowners in Neighboring Development Upset in Wilmington, North Carolina. The Morning Star reports that noise from a skateboarding business has neighbors living nearby upset. The business, Eastwood Ramp Park, is located in an industrial park that was started before the residential subdivision and according to the article, does not violate any ordinance for nonresidential location. Neighbors have petitioned the County Commissioners to amend the county's noise ordinance to force the business to tone it down.
Over 60 Families Suffering from Noise and Vibrations of Power Plant Since 1995. New Straits Times-Management Times reports that government authorities are paying attention to the noise and vibration created by a power plant in Taman NLFCS. Sixty families in Tanjung Gemok, Port Dickson have been affected by the power plant. The Negri Sembilan Governments recently requested that the State Department of Environment (DoE) to submit a detailed report on the problems faced by the surrounding residents.
Plans for Expansion at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport in Ohio Creates Tensions with Neighboring Communities and Residents. The Plain Dealer reports that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will be looking into the noise complaints of residents and public officials in neighboring communities as a part of an environmental study to be completed before the expansion of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport begins. The expansion is intended to give it the ability to handle more flights. Neighbors are already worried about the loud rumbling of airplanes and are wondering if that noise problem will only get worse, the article said.
Residents in Tullahoma, Tennesee Fight City's Plans for a Recreation Complex Because of Anticipated Noise and Traffic. The Tennesean reports that plans for a 38-acre recreation complex is being met with opposition by homeowners in a nearby subdivision who believe the park will bring an increase in noise, traffic and loitering near their homes. The plans are under review with Tullahoma city officials.
Stadium Plans To Go To City Zoning Commission; Plans Get Cool Reception from Residents in Schaumberg and Roselle, Illinois. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that nearly 125 people attended a Schaumburg zoning hearing June 18 regarding the proposed minor-league baseball stadium. Many residents in attendance argued the proposed stadium site - in the middle of single-family suburbia- was not fitting to the suburban village of Schaumberg.
The Expansion of Camarillo Airport Prompts Editorials Regarding Expected the Expected Increase in Aircraft Noise. The Ventura County Star published the following two editorials regarding the increased airplane noise expected with the expansion at Camarillo Airport. The author of the first editorial sees the expansion as a "legitimate business purpose" and welcomes the noise it brings. The author of the second editorial finds that a decline in land values and loss of tranquility in the entire west end of the county, "is a high price to pay for eight, or even 80, new employment opportunities".
Air Conditioning Unit for Super Market Causes Tremors and Noise Disturbances for Baltimore Neighborhood. The Baltimore Sun reports that Cherry Hill neighborhood, located in South Baltimore, is shaking from nine industrial-strength air units erected to provide air conditioning and refrigeration for a new super market. The Super Market is the centerpiece of a major redevelopment campaign spearheaded by Catholic Charities.
Airport Noise Monitored at Twenty Sites in Chandler, Arizona. The Arizona Republic reports that the Sky Harbor International Airport has positioned noise monitors at 20 sites near Phoenix, Arizona. According to the article data collected from the monitors will be used by airport officials to pinpoint particularly noisy aircraft and to better understand planes' flight patterns.
Australian Prime Minister Concedes that the Government's Noise Plan Has Failed to Achieve its Goals. The AAP Newsfeed reported that Australian Prime Minister John Howard admitted for the first time that his government could not meet its promises regarding aircraft noise.
Calf. High School Gets More Funds to Soundproof Against Noise from Lindbergh Field. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports California's Point Loma High School will get additional funds to provide relief from the constant noise of nearby Lindbergh Field.
Costly Noise Abatement Program Recommended by Consultants for Tulsa International Airport in Oklahoma. Tulsa World reports that the noise consultant for Tulsa International Airport - Barnard Dunkelberg & Co.,- has recommended a five-year $20 million noise abatement program that includes purchases of easement rights, sound insulation and property buyouts for about 1,000 residents of neighborhoods. The consultant also advised Tulsa Airport Authority trustees to alter takeoff and landing procedures so that low-level aircraft flights over residential areas are minimized.
Excemption to City's Noise Bylaws Granted for Calgary Folk Festival; Appeal Made by Community Association is Defeated. The Calgary Herald reports that the city's chief bylaw enforcement officer, Earl MacLeod, granted a temporary exemption to the city's noise bylaw permitting Calgary Folk Festival to play music until 11 p.m. on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. On Thursday, July 23 and Sunday 26, the music must shut down at 10 p.m.
Florida's Vero Beach Airport Commission to Sit as its Own Noise-Abatement Committee. The Press Journal published an article regarding a special workshop to brainstorm ideas for softening the noise of airplanes flying into and out of the Vero Beach Municipal Airport. However, the Vero Beach Airport Commission decided to sit as its own noise-abatement committee during the workshop.
Mayoral Candidates Debate about the Noise from T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island. Providence Journal-Bulletin summarized conclusions from a debate between mayoral candidates concerning increased traffic and noise pollution at the T.F. Green Airport. According to the article, two out of three mayoral candidates agree: There isn't much a mayor, by himself, can do about the noise from T.F. Green Airport. The two candidates agreed, however that while the city cannot impose its will on airport operations, by mandating flight hours or flight paths, there are courses of action the mayor can take.
Opinions Regarding the Utility of Expansion at Chicago's O'Hara International Airport Verses Construction of a Third Chicago Airport Debated. The Chicago Herald reports that the city of Chicago is projecting 200 more flights a day at O'Hare International Airport within the next 15 years. However, Illinois state transportation officials believe the growth in jet traffic at the world's busiest airport will be substantially higher. At stake in the dispute between those two estimates for growth is the issue of whether a third airport is needed in the Chicago area.
Properties Eligible for Federal Soundproofing Relief Shrinking in Manchester, New Hampshire. The Union Leader reports that residents of Manchester, New Hampshire, petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration this week asking why areas once eligible for soundproofing are no longer eligible.
The City of Cumberland, Maryland Agrees to Monitor Noise Levels of Manville Quarry in Response to Residents' Complaints. Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Cumberland town officials have obtained a seismograph machine to monitor blasting at the Manville Quarry. The action is taken, as a response to quarry's neighbors who have been suffering with the repeated blasts for more than twenty years.
Is Living Under Heathrow Airport's Flight Paths an Asset or Loss for London's Homeowners and Purchasers?. The Financial Times reports that some of Britain's most expensive houses lie on the flight paths into and out of Heathrow airport. The proximity to the airport is considered one of the property's virtues, at least until now. The article poses the question: With construction of the fifth terminal ("Terminal Five") looming on the horizon, will proximity to the airport continue to be an asset or will the proximity push buyers beyond the limits for noise and congestion?
Noise Concerns from Airport Delay New School in Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports noise concerns may stall construction for a new high school planned near Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport.
Village Officials for Arlington Heights Displeased with Increased Noise from Chicago's O'Hara International Airport. The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the village of Arlington Heights, Illinois is divided over how best to state the its displeasure with the increased level of noise and air pollution generated by nearby O'Hara International Airport, the world's busiest airport.
Boise City Council Will Consider New Ordinance to Silence Barking Dogs. The Idaho Statesman reports that Boise City Council will be considering a new noise ordinance aimed at barking dogs.
Converstion of El Toro and Other Options for Los Angeles' Former Military Airbase. Los Angeles Times published several letters to the editor relaying opinions about the various options for the conversion of the El Toro Airforce Base. Options discussed in the editorials include: (1) the economic feasibility of the Millennium Plan, an economic development option; (2) conversion of El Toro to commercial airport to meet the increased air travel demands; (3) the possibility of meeting air travel demands by building a commercial airport at Los Alamitos Armed Forces Reserve Center; and (4) the Diego Freeway and meeting increased air demand through the Long Beach Airport. The opinions are as follows:
Local Residents Annoyed by the Sounds of Soldiers at Camp Graying, Michigan. The Detroit News reports that the sounds of war games is annoying local residents living in the pristine area near Northern Michigan's Camp Grayling Site. The noise is coming from an almost 50% increase in summer training exercises at Camp Graying. Citizens and summer residents say the expanded training at the camp offends the solitude and drives away potential tourism. Military sources, however, say noise is a small price to pay for the opportunity to provide terrain that will prepare soldiers for war.
Sound Wall in Developers' Plans Sparks Controversy in Calif. Town. The article reports initial plans for the Heritage Park Estates project included a 14-foot-high sound wall, but members of the town staff suggested installing an earthen berm instead. "We have looked at several different options on how to mitigate the sound and how to meet the town's concerns about preserving a semirural appearance to the project," Remington said after the meeting. "Just doing an earthen berm would require a massive amount of dirt to be moved." A berm would involve moving 12,000 to 14,000 cubic yards of dirt to the site, an effort that would cost $120,000 to $140,000, Remington said. "That's a big pile," he said. The berm also would result in the loss of 11 lots.
Study Predicts High Noise Levels for Planned Housing near Colorado's Buckley Air Base. The Rocky Mountain News reports a recently released report by the Air Force concerning noise levels from Buckley Air National Guard Base may force Aurora, Colorado, city planners to reconsider already-approved developments.
Airport Sound Monitors and Radar Systems Identify Noise and Keep Airlines Honest. The Courier-Journal of Louisville, Kentucky, reports an increasing number of airports are using sound monitors and radar systems to track the exact paths of arriving and departing airplanes. This information can be used to assist in noise abatement measures.
California's Kings County Passes Noisy Party Ordinance. The Fresno Bee reports an ordinance was recently approved to fine hosts of noisy parties if California's Kings County Sheriff Department has to make a return visit to quiet the site.
Louisville Airport Accused of Negligence in Monitoring Noise and Residents' Complaints. The Courier-Journal reports Louisville International Airport has done little to track the impact of noise from changes in runways and flight patterns that have occurred under the airport's $700 million expansion.
Noise Mitigation Measures Needed in U.S. Schools to Reduce Interference with Learning. The Portland Press Herald reports classroom noise and reverberation is a fundamental and little understood issue that interferes with learning at schools in Maine and across the nation, experts say.
Use of Personal Watercraft Prohibited Near Some Shores in the Florida Keys. The New York Times reports County Commissioners in Monroe County, Florida have approved an ordinance that prohibits operating personal watercraft within 1,200 feet of 14 beaches and resorts from Key West to Key Largo. The Personal Watercraft Industry Association, an association that represents five manufacturers of personal watercraft, plans to file suit in a Federal court asking that the ordinance be repealed.
Arlington Heights Advisory Committee on O'Hare Noise to Update Goals. The Chicago Daily Herald reports the village of Arlington Heights has requested the Advisory Committee on O'Hare Noise re-issue their plan for mitigating airplane noise in the village's airspace.
Columnist Criticizes Louisville International Airport's Noise Monitoring System. The Courier-Journal published a column by Bob Hill that contends officials in charge of the $700 million expansion of Kentucky's Louisville International Airport are deaf to noise pollution concerns of residents.
Expanded T.F. Green Airport Brings More Noise to Rhode Island Residents. The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the newly expanded T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island, is bringing new noise to its host city, afflicting almost 4 square miles of neighborhoods with enough noise to make them eligible for house soundproofing at taxpayer expense.
Long Beach Township Cancels Ordinance Regulating Ice Cream Vendors. The Asbury Park Press reports New Jersey's Long Beach Township officials have rescinded an ordinance that had limited the days and streets on which ice cream vendors could operate. The canceled ordinance was passed last year after residents complained of noise and fumes from the ice cream trucks.
New Jersey Town Debates Ordinance in Effort to Preserve Quiet Time. The Asbury Park Press reports a proposed ordinance in Spring Lake, New Jersey, to limit noise pollution produced lively discussion at last night's Borough Council meeting.
Resident Says Noise Ruins Lives in English Town. The Gloucestershire Echo published the following letter to the editor about the ill effects of noise from a resident of High Street, Cheltenham, England:
San Francisco Airport Receives Multi-Million Dollar Package to Reduce Noise. The San Francisco Chronicle reports California's San Francisco International Airport received a multi-million dollar grant yesterday intended to make SFO more safe and efficient. About $11 million will go toward airfield work, while the rest of the funds will be devoted to noise reduction, including $4 million for soundproofing homes in South San Francisco and San Bruno.
Ballpark Approved by Illinois Village Trustees Despite Residents' Objections to Noise and Traffic. The Chicago Daily Herald Cook reports Schaumburg trustees unanimously approved final plans for a publicly financed minor-league ballpark Tuesday, despite objections of noise and traffic congestion from some homeowners.
Enviromental Groups Oppose Air Cargo Hub in Nevada's Ivanpah Valley. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports environmentalists said Tuesday they oppose Clark County's plans for a new airport in the Ivanpah Valley because it would disrupt national parks, stimulate more urban growth, and increase air and noise pollution.
Florida's Martin County Strives to Write Enforceable Noise Ordinance. The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports commissioners in Martin County, Florida, are working to develop a constitutionally sound ordinance to control noise nuisances.
New Monitoring System at Port Columbus Will Identify Noisy Flights. The Columbus Dispatch reports a state-of-the-art monitoring system planned for Port Columbus should help airport officials better identify the source of noisy flights that give residents sleepless nights.
Providence Resident Wants Police to Enforce Noise Pollution Laws. The Providence Journal-Bulletin published the following editorial from resident Edward Moncada, encouraging police enforcement of noise regulations in Providence, Rhode Island. Moncada writes:
City Official Wants Voting Rights for Rolling Meadows on O'Hare Noise Panel. The Chicago Tribune reports an Illinois alderman in Rolling Meadows is urging that his city secure voting rights on the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission
GA County Says Yes to Outdoor Music for Restaurants but Noise Ordinance Still in Effect. The Atlanta Journal reports for the second time in recent months, county commissioners in Gwinnett, Georgia, changed the alcohol law to allow restaurants to play music outside their buildings.
Madison, WI, Proposes Stricter Noise Ordinance. The Wisconsin State Journal reports a proposal to toughen Madison, Wisconsin's noise regulations may please residents but irk businesses.
New Noise Group Aims to Silence Critics of Boca Raton Airport. The Sun-Sentinel reports a new group, Supporters of Aviation Resources Inc., (SOAR), says complaints about airplane noise during the past year have been exaggerated. Its aim is to silence criticism of the Boca Raton Airport.
New RAF Flight Paths No Improvement for some in Scottish Villages. The Aberdeen Press and Journal of Aberdeen, Scotland, reports new flight paths designed by the RAF to reduce noise for villages around the Tain bombing range in Easter Ross are making life noisy and miserable for one farmer.
Noise Insulation Plans Revealed for Homes Near New Zealand Airport. The Dominion reports residents who live near New Zealand's Palmerston North airport will hear tonight about new regulations that affect the noise insulation of new homes.
Plan for Roller Hockey Rink Brings Concerns of Noise and Traffic in NJ Town. The Record reports more than 60 residents attended a planning board meeting this week in New Milford, New Jersey, to discuss proposed outdoor roller-hockey rink. While some tried to demonstrate the need for the facility, others talked of the noise and traffic the rink would bring to the neighborhood.
Chicago Town Says it Qualifies to Vote on O'Hare Noise Commission. The Chicago Sun-Times reports the city of Rolling Meadows, Illinois, wants to have more say about how soundproofing efforts are funded by becoming a voting member of the Chicago-funded O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission.
Columbus Resident Advocates for Preservation of Quiet Streets and Neighborhoods. The Columbus Dispatch published the following editorial by Columbus resident, Joe Motil. He opposes the building of a major thoroughfare through an historic section of the city, which he says will bring noise, traffic, and the destruction of urban green space and a neighborhood. Motil writes:
Congressman's Approval Could Allow Controversial Sixth Runaway at DIA. The Rocky Mountain News of Denver, Colorado, reports the chairman of the Transportation Committee has given his approval, freeing up money for a much-disputed sixth runway at Denver International Airport. Some opponents will still fight the runway, based on noise issues.
Former Pilot Says Residents Have Little Reason to Complain about Airplane Noise. The Palm Beach Post published the following letter to the editor from Florida resident Roy L. Huber. Huber responds to an opinion article about residents' dissatisfaction with airplane noise standards. Huber writes:
German Court Rules in Favor of Neighbors; Enforces Quiet Times at Home. AP Worldstream reports Germany's Constitutional Court refused Friday to hear an appeal of a controversial ruling that came from a neighbor's complaints about noise coming from a house for mentally handicapped men.
Wisconsin Town Wants to Beef Up Nuisance Ordinance to Quiet Motorbike Noise. The Capital Times reports residents of Dunn, Wisconsin, say motorbikes racing on a nearby track keep them awake at night, but the owner of the property says he's a good neighbor who regulates racing hours.
Airport Noise Level Plans Require Future Homes to be Soundproofed. The Evening Standard reports rural New Zealand residents living under flight paths are concerned about how proposed new noise level limits near Palmerston North airport will affect future homes and additions to existing properties.
Jacksonville Considering New Enforceable Noise Laws. The State Journal Register reports the city of Jacksonville, Florida, is looking at a new proposal to restrict noise in neighborhoods.
Memphis Airport Authority Votes to Settle Class-Action Noise Lawsuit. The Commercial Appeal reports the Memphis/Shelby County Airport Authority unanimously approved a proposed $ 22 million payment to area homeowners Friday designed to settle a 9-year-old airport noise suit.
New Zealanders Look to Preserve Natural Quiet in National Parks; Helicopter Buzzing is Main Concern. The Press reports helicopter noise is annoying visitors and ruining the natural quiet in New Zealand's national parks. Conservation and park groups are taking measures to avoid the over-flying that has plagued the US's Grand Canyon.
Sea-Tac Airport Authority and Opponents to Enter Mediation. The News Tribune reports the Port of Seattle and opponents of its proposed third runway at Sea-Tac International Airport have agreed to negotiation talks with a nationally known mediator.
Calif. Residents Don't Want Concrete Plant to Relocate to Weimar. The Sacramento Bee reports Weimar, California, residents were pleased Thursday morning when the Placer County Planning Commission voted 3-2 to deny Manuel Brothers Inc. a conditional use permit for a concrete batch plant on Canyon Way. Residents oppose the plant relocation based on concerns about noise pollution, increased traffic, and property devaluation.
Feds Fund Three Sound Barrier Projects in NYC. The Daily News reports Congress and the White House have approved a multi-million-dollar spending for transportation projects aimed at easing New York's traffic flow along Queens streets, and reducing noise pollution for neighbors of the borough's highways.
For Peace and Safety's Sake, Virginia Needs to Regulate Personal Watercraft, Says Editorial. The Virginian-Pilot of Norfolk, VA, published the following commentary advocating for stronger rules for personal watercraft.
Homeowners in Tennessee Say Property Values Have Fallen on Their Homes From Noise and Air Pollution. The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that more than 20 residents of the Eagle Bend neighborhood in Clinton, Tennessee say their property values have fallen and the assessments on their homes should be reduced because of the air and noise pollution coming from the nearby Carden Farm Industrial Park. The residents appeared before the Anderson County Board of Equalization recently, and presented a petition to the board contesting what residents say are the "high property tax reappraisals" on their homes.
Motorcycle Fans and Foes Meet about Noise in NYC. The New York Times reports a large group gathered Tuesday in Greenwich Village, New York, to talk about noise from motorcycles with altered mufflers.
New Laws on Maine's Waters Restricting Noise and Personal Watercraft. The Portland Press Herald reports as Maine's busiest boating season begins next weekend, game wardens are gearing up to enforce new boating laws - including restrictions on noise levels and the minimum age for operating personal watercraft.
Planning Commission Rejects Preschool Expansion in Calif. Neighborhood When Residents Stress Noise and Traffic Concerns. The Sacramento Bee reports plans for an expanded preschool in Shingle Springs , California, were rejected Thursday by the El Dorado County Planning Commission. Opponents pressured commission to reverse its initial approval, citing the inappropriateness of the site in a neighborhood and pointing to noise and traffic concerns.
Storms Re-route Aircraft; Vancouver and Portland Residents Annoyed by Noise. The Columbian of Vancouver, Washington, reports Friday afternoon thunderstorms caused several dozen complaints about aircraft noise from downtown Vancouver and north Portland residents.
Anti-Aircraft Noise Activists Win Concessions at Australia's Perth Airport. AAP Newsfeed reports Australia's Perth airport owners have given in to pressure from anti-aircraft noise activists, imposing several restrictions on the use of a proposed runway extension.
Calif. County Court to Decide Volume Level at Pacific Amphitheater. The Los Angeles Times reports that the Pacific Amphitheater at Orange County, California's fairgrounds is still a source of tension, even now that a noise lawsuit is over.
County Vows to Sue if Noise Pact not Reached with Lambert Field Airport. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Missouri's St. Charles County will file a lawsuit to stop any expansion plan at Lambert Field unless it gets an agreement that aircraft noise will be lowered from present levels.
France will Phase out Noisier Jets at Charles de Gaulle Airport. AP Worldstream reports the French government on Monday agreed to phase out noisier jetliners at Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport by 2002.
Mixed Reviews for New Sound Barriers Along Baltimore's I-695. The Baltimore Sun reports last week, The Intrepid Commuter column released the results of an unscientific survey of commuters' opinions on aesthetics of the new sound barriers that were erected along portions of Interstate 695. Most drivers who responded found them distasteful.
Noise Complaints Increase 20 Percent in English Towns. The Gloucestershire Echo reports complaints about noisy neighbors are on the increase in the English towns of Vale of Evesham and Broadway.
Noise and Its Health Effects Need Attention in Malaysia. The New Straits Times reports there is an urgent need to reduce noise pollution in Malaysia, according to the Society of Occupational Safety and Health.
Councilman Says Constituents Will Suffer for Burbank Airport Expansion in Noise, Traffic and Pollution. The Daily News of Los Angeles published the following editorial by Dave Golonski, a Burbank City Council member. In his response to a recent commentary about the expansion of California's Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport, Golonski contends his constituents will pay for the current plans for airport expansion in noise, traffic, and pollution.
Noise Regulations for Watercraft in Maine. The Central Maine Morning Sentinel reports new laws regulating motorboats, including limiting the noise levels of all powerboats go into effect next week in Maine.
Residents Consider Proposal to Quiet Washington's King County Airport Inadequate. The Seattle Times reports yesterday, after months of community protests over noise from Washington's King County International Airport, a King County Executive proposed a compromise that some residents already consider inadequate.
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