PUBLICATION: Sun-Sentinel
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: Local, Pg. 3B
BYLINE: Stella M. Chavez
DATELINE: Saddlebrook, Florida
The Sun-Sentinel reports that Boca Raton, Florida residents are divided over the proposed sound walls scheduled to be built along U.S. 441. Many residents are concerned that the walls will ruin aesthetics, decrease property values and increase vandalism.
The article states that The Florida Department of Transportation will probably rule next week on the proposed sound walls, including construction methods, which will be placed along U.S. 441 west of Boca Raton. This announcement was made Monday night by agency officials at a tense meeting attended by residents split over whether the walls will improve or harm their quality of life.
According to the article, residents are divided into two camps - those who are tired of the increasing traffic noise and want relief, and those who care less about noise but more about aesthetics, property values and possible vandalism. The first meeting, held for residents of Saddlebrook, Boca Gardens and Boca Landings, left little time for Steve Moore of the Department of Transportation to get a word in edgewise as residents debated the issue. A second meeting was also held which included residents of Southwind Lakes and Boca Fontana. The meetings occurred prior to the DOT making its recommendation about the walls to the Federal Highway Administration. Moore, district project development engineer, said he will weigh everyone's opinion and then make a decision the first week of May. At this point, the Federal Highway Administration will have a month to review the information presented by the concerned citizens.
The article explains that as U.S. 441 has expanded to the north, DOT has advocated for the walls which they say will reduce noise levels. The project, which is scheduled to begin sometime in November and last two years, will widen the road west of Boca Raton from four to six lanes depending on location. The federal government, who is footing the bill for the expansion, mandates that highway walls be built when the noise level reaches 67 decibels.
Oppenents of the walls, including those who live in close proximity to the highway, have suggested installing a berm with a 7-foot wall on top as an alternative. But doing so would require the state to purchase an additional 48 feet of property, some of which runs along canals owned by the Lake Worth Drainage District. Moore said the district would probably not sell the land to the state, and that even if they did, the cost would be prohibitive.
Even though Moore attempted to ease residents' concerns regarding side effects of the walls, such as diminished sunlight, some citizens were still not relieved. "It just seems like for $24 million you can do something better than that," said Marcie Lambert, a representative of the Boca Fontana Homeowners' Association Inc. "If you let this wall go up, we'll be a walled city."
PUBLICATION: AFX News
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: Company News; Regulatory Actions; Government; European Community
DATELINE: Brussels, Belgium
The AFX News reports that European air transport legislation may be tightened in order to address U.S. concerns that planes not fitted with the proper muffler may be prohibited from flying into the EU and will lose value for resale.
The article states that according to a European Commission source, the European Union is deliberating tightening its air transport legislation. This is a result of U.S fears that planes will not be able to enter the EU because they are not fitted with hushkits, and will lose their value for resale. Currently, the legislation exempts planes from the ban that are not fitted with certain mufflers and that do not have a history of up to five years' flying into European Union airspace.
According to the article, an informal meeting in Dortmund of EU transport ministers reaffirmed the EU's decision to enact the legislation on April 29, which was postponed in March for one month. A commission transport spokeswoman added that the law may be changed later based on multilateral discussions, although at this point in the proceedings, the U.S. has not provided a list of specific complaints to the EU.
PUBLICATION: Associated Press
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Newington, New Hampshire
The Associate Press reports that at Pease International Tradeport, residents have had fewer opportunities to complain about air traffic or noise problems due to less use of the airport, a condition that is likely to stay the same for some time.
According to the article, residents living near the Pease International Tradeport won't have air traffic or noise problems in the near future, officials say. Currently, Pease's air traffic is below projections and is likely to stay that way for some time. Airport Manager Mark Rowell estimates that Pease will handle about 35,000 flights this year and that total flights will always be limited by the number of people in the area, about 1.5 million, and by the fact that the airport has only one runway.
The article also states that another limiting factor in the number of flights at Pease is the noise restrictions that are recommended to aviation businesses using the tradeport. The Development Authority is trying to mandate the restrictions with the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA standard for noise is a daily average of 65 decibels, although local officials have decided Pease's average should not exceed 60 decibels.
Since the facility made the transition from a military base to a civilian business (which still includes an Air National Guard Base) and industrial park in the early 1990s, the number of flights at Pease has varied. In 1992, there were 26,310 flights, of which 41% were military. Total flights peaked at 42,082 the following year because Business Express was offering passenger service. After that, flights decreased steadily, when Business Express ended service, until 1997 when they increased because of more cargo flights.
The article concludes with Pease Development Authority Executive Director George Meyer's prediction that air traffic will increase in the future due to the fluctuations of the airline industry. "I think there will be (more) traffic here just by the virtue that it's growing enough and there are a lot of places for it to go, and this happens to be near a metropolitan area," said Meyer.
PUBLICATION: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: North Post, Pg. 8
BYLINE: Linda Briggs-Harty
DATELINE: Pasadena Park, Missouri
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Lambert Field Airport will install computer-driven monitors in Pasadena Park in order to come into compliance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines for noise mitigation. The airport also offers homes and businesses affected by the noise several compensatory options.
The article reports that in order to pinpoint specific aircraft influences generated from Lambert Field, computer-driven monitors will be placed on utility poles in Pasadena Park to monitor aircraft noise levels. Twenty of these monitors will be used to gather information based on DNLs (day-night level decibels) in order to meet noise mitigation guidelines laid out in the Federal Aviation Administration's Regulation Part 150. Sixteen of the devices are in place and the remaining four are expected to be working within a year, according to Mike Donatt, communications manager for the airport.
The article also states that data from the monitors will eventually be made available to the public from a central computer base in a kiosk located at the Airport Authority office, 4610 Lindbergh Boulevard.
The improved tracking system replaces an old system of monitors which were placed at a few sites around the airport in the early 1980s. Unlike the old system, data from the new monitors reveals noise level information such as aircraft types, flight times and altitude. Citizens, including Pasadena Park board member Mike Robinson, are hopeful that the monitors will reveal a need for more soundproofing in homes and other buildings in the area. "We think the monitor will be helpful. We'll see what we've known for a while - it's too loud here," said Robinson.
The articles goes on to say that for homes and businesses affected by high-level aircraft noise, the airport offers options such as direct buyout, soundproofing of structures, sales transaction assistance and fly-over compensation. High noise levels (DNLs of 70 or above) usually lead to buyouts, which are offered on a voluntary basis. So far, the airport has bought out South Kinloch, parts of Berkeley and Hazelwood and some of Carrollton. Parts of Carrollton and Bridgeton have been bought out for airport expansion as well, although according to Mike Cullivan, airport planning and development program executive, no more buyouts are anticipated.
DNLs of around 65 or more entail other options for soundproofing such as insulating structures. Several public and private schools in the have been soundproofed in the past few years and the airport has just begun soundproofing qualified homes.
According to the article, if those affected by high DNLs choose to move, the airport will pay home or business owners the difference between fair market value and the sales price if there would be a difference. Or, the airport will buy an easement over an affected property. Anyone in the flight path can choose to be monitored for high noise levels, says Cullivan. A portable monitor reads noise levels at the site for a month in both the winter and summer. The process takes into account the fact that although data from the 20 monitors will accurately reflect the nearby noise levels (within 1 DNL point), readings can differ for structures not far from each other.
The article concludes by stating that another factor in lowering noise levels will be the new or altered Stage 3 aircraft regulations which will be in place by Dec. 31. Although older planes will be phased out or converted to meet FAA noise standards, military aircraft at the Air National Guard Base near the Airport and Boeing Corp. are exempt from the regulations. "The noise should be substantially lower around the area with Stage 3 aircraft, but there still will be a noise footprint," said Cullivan. "We're looking forward to getting the monitors up and running. With the system's great capabilities, we can more adequately respond to people's needs," he added.
PUBLICATION: High Point Enterprise
DATE: April 25, 1999
BYLINE: Paul B. Johnson
DATELINE: Greensboro, North Carolina
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Mark Warren
The High Point Enterprise reports that the Federal Aviation Administration will hold a public meeting for concerned citizens on the status of their environmental impact statement regarding the proposed Federal Express hub to be located at the Piedmont Triad International Airport.
According to the article, the Federal Aviation Administration will hold a public information session from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday at the Piedmont Triad International Airport on the status of its yearlong environmental impact study of the proposed Federal Express Corp. cargo hub project. The public information session, which takes place at Western Guilford High School, will update attendees on the potential impacts of the $300 million mid-Atlantic package sorting hub on the airport's surroundings. The High School is located about two miles from the airport on Friendway Road.
The article goes on to say that when the environmental impact study was first launched in August, 500 people attended an initial meeting on the matter. FAA officials are hoping for a similar turnout at the upcoming meeting, as community members meet to discuss the airport's plans for building a third runway to in order to accommodate FedEx. Now is the time for both public input and a public information session, according to Steve Brill, manager of the airports division for the FAA regional office in Atlanta. At the meeting, FAA officials and representatives with the agency's consultant, URS Greiner of Tampa, Fla., will discuss how the study is progressing and share previous public comments.
The next step will be to pinpoint where the noise from planes would affect homes and businesses in the vicinity of the airport, depending on the placement of the hub and the proposed third runway. At this point, said Brill, the FAA has identified five or six potential configurations for the hub which include the airport's proposal, which involves building a third runway parallel to the longer, existing runway, and the alternative suggested by nearby residents, which doesn't involve a third runway at all. The Piedmont Quality of Life Coalition's alternative would be to extend the airport's shorter runway, placing the hub at the end of that runway. The coalition says this plan is the least intrusive for nearby neighborhoods.
According to Dan Lynch, the special project consultant for the Greensboro Area Chamber of Commerce on the FedEx proposal, the session should reassure people about the study. "We want people to see that this is a thorough process," he said. Lynch, formerly head of the High Point Economic Development Corp., also said the session will give people on both sides of the issue an opportunity to have their concerns and questions addressed. But not everyone has faith in the process. "The environmental impact study is more or less a rubber stamp process," said Mark Warren, a Coalition member who lives in northwest Greensboro near the proposed third runway and feels that the FAA's approach is biased towards the proposal suggested by the airport.
The article states that Brill believes that the FAA considers each proposal on its merits rather than favoring airports over residents. He uses the example that in past cases, the FAA has altered plans submitted by airports because of the findings in environmental impact statements such as a commercial airport proposal that was rejected in Dade County, Fla. because of environmental concerns.
But why all the controversy over the proposed third runway? One reason is the importance placed on the airport's plan by FedEx. The article states that parallel runways was a requirement when FedEx first sought proposals from officials at six airports in the Carolinas, said Ashley Thrift, a lawyer from Winston-Salem representing FedEx. After consideration, FedEx announced a year ago that the Triad had been picked because the company wanted the facility to be located between two runways. To allow FedEx to most effectively operate a package sorting operation that meets overnight delivery schedules parallel runways are critical, Thrift said. "Sometimes we will have to use both runways for takeoff," he added. If things go as planned, FedEx will begin serving the mid-Atlantic facility with 20 to 25 planes a day, while workers will sort up to 24,000 parcels per hour.
The article states that the FAA recognizes that the conflict over adding a third runway and the development of the hub has resonated throughout the airport and the surrounding community. "It's an emotional issue in the community. But it won't serve any purpose if people want to use it (the session) as a shouting match," Brill said. "It's our plan to listen, provide information and work from there." The public information session scheduled for Monday is designed so that concerned citizens can meet with FAA officials on a one-to-one basis. Tables will also be set up to disseminate information on subjects such as noise levels and water quality. This format has been chosen for the meeting rather than speakers stepping up to a podium to make statements through a microphone, FAA officials said. "Down the road, when there is a draft environmental impact statement, then we will have a public hearing where there will be an opportunity to have an open forum," said FAA spokeswoman Kathleen Bergen. According to Brill, the draft statement should be read sometime in the fall.
Visit the World Wide Web site of the High Point (N.C.) Enterprise at http://www.hpe.com
PUBLICATION: Chicago Tribune
DATE: April 25, 1999
SECTION: Real Estate; Pg. 7G; Zone: C
BYLINE: by Steve Bailey
DATELINE: Louisville, Ky.
The Chicago Tribune reports that residents of Minor Lane Heights, Kentucky may have to leave their homes behind because of airport expansion, but they will be keeping their neighbors.
According to the article, Pat Philpott, who has lived in the same house for over 30 years, felt anxious when she found out that she would have to leave her home in order to allow an airport to expand. Then she found out that not only could she take all her furniture with her, but all of her neighbors as well.
The article states that Mrs. Philpott, 58, is one of nearly 300 residents in Minor Lane Heights who will have to pack up and move about 8 miles to the southeast over the next several years. It's all part of a relocation plan to keep all 1,700 residents of the small but incorporated Minor Lane Heights, located on the outskirts of Louisville, together. "This community does a lot of things together--Easter egg hunts, senior citizen dinners, picnics and festivals," said Minor Lane Heights Mayor Fred Williams. "Why let go of all of that if you don't have to?"
The article continues with the saga of Mrs. Philpott. On one side of her new home will be the neighbors that she's lived next to for almost 30 years. On the other side of her new home will be the woman who's lived across the street for 26 years while other current neighbors will be relocated across the street. "At first, I didn't want to move, not at all," Mrs. Philpott said. "I've lived here a long time and raised my sons here and made some great friends. I didn't want to give all that up." Neither did other residents, whose homes were being razed, but whose long-term relationships will not be. "We've lived here for 14 years and my parents live right next door," said 43-year-old Gerald Jackson, whose family will be one of the first to moved and settled into their new home by Thanksgiving. "Everybody here looks out for each other like family. I couldn't imagine relocating anywhere away from a lot of these people, especially my folks," he said.
The article states that although a groundbreaking ceremony for the new community was held recently, the process actually began more than five years ago when the Louisville International Airport announced plans to open two new runways. But stressed-out homeowners living below the airport's flight path raised an outcry that the added noise would only lower the quality of their already noise-ridden lives. "From about 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., the roar is constant," Williams said. But he is also worried about more than just the noise. "The airport here has a great track record, but what goes up must come down. Eventually, there's going to be some kind of disaster."
The article states that a solution was eventually proposed by the airport that consisted of a $285 million federal and state grant program to buy the homes of over 3,700 area property owners so that they could purchase homes in other quieter locations. But for Minor Lane Heights residents, this proposal wasn't up to snuff. They informed airport officials that they would only agree to be relocated if they could all be moved together. "When this whole situation came up about five years ago, the phones were ringing off the hook with people asking, 'Where am I going to go?' and 'What am I going to do,' " Williams said. "Someone proposed the idea of moving together. Right away, people started saying it couldn't be done. But our attitude was 'Why not?' These days, you can do just about anything you want if you put your mind to it."
The article goes on to say that not all of the residents have moved to the new location, but about 300 of 440 homeowners have chosen to relocate to the new location city called Heritage Creek. "Everybody is tickled to death with this," said city Clerk Jan Skeeters. "And the excitement really picked up when people started picking their lots. Even though they just see their names on a colored dot on a layout board, it's become reality."
The article concludes by mentioning that the budget for the Federal Aviation Administration's program to help residents cope with airport related problems was $200 million last year. This money goes towards assisting residents deal with the problem of jet noise, soundproofing their houses or in some instances, buying and tearing them down. In the case of Minor Lane Heights, the FAA and the airport each contributed $10 million to help buy 287 acres of land at the new city location. The plan is that residents will sell their property to the program so that they can buy land and a home similar to the one that they sold. About 350 houses are scheduled to be built in the first phase of construction with more planned for subsequent years. The new three-bedroom, one-bath homes will average about 1,000 square feet, although residents have the option of paying more for larger lots or amenities that they would like to add. A 100-year-old building already on the property will serve as the new city hall and officials plan to begin renovating it as soon as the first residents move in. "A few people have asked me about the downside to this situation," Skeeters said. "Other than the fact they've got a lot of fond memories in those old houses, what possible downside is there?"
PUBLICATION: The Associated Press State & Local Wire
DATE: April 30, 1999
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Hill Air Force Base, Utah
The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a new flight path used by military jets traveling from Utah's Hill Air Force Base to the Utah Test and Training Range is drawing increased noise complaints from area residents. The route was changed to quell fears from Salt Lake International Airport Officials that military jets were flying to close to commercial jets. In addition to the flight path change, the fighters must fly 500 feet lower at 6,500 feet, increasing noise even further. While many residents are upset about the increase in noise, some say that they enjoy watching the fighters fly overhead.
PUBLICATION: The Daily News of Los Angeles
DATE: April 30, 1999
SECTION: News, Pg. N13
BYLINE: Douglas Haberman
DATELINE: San Fernando Valley, California
The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that California's Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and legislators are trying to accelerate the building of promised highway soundwalls in the state. A list, created in 1989, still includes 58 soundwalls that have yet to be built. Since 1989, 91 additional soundwalls have been placed on a second list. The large majority of the soundwalls on the first list are in Los Angeles County, with at least 13 in San Fernando Valley.
The article goes on to say that state legislators are trying to get $183 million "off the top" of the state's budget. The MTA is developing a plan to finish the walls in 5 years; funding options may include borrowing funds from other projects such as carpool lane construction. If the current rate of wall construction were not changed, it would take 150 years to make it through the list. "Some neighborhoods like Toluca Lake have been waiting for 25 years or more for walls they were promised, Wildman said. "It's a classic example of a government promise that the government never came through on," he said."
PUBLICATION: Sun-Sentinel
DATE: April 30, 1999
SECTION: Local, Pg. 1A
BYLINE: Jill Rosen
DATELINE: Boca Raton, Florida
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Ellen Lohr, chairwoman of Boca Raton Airport Action Group
The Sun-Sentinel reports that the Florida Legislature passed a bill that will change the way that members are appointed to the Airport Authority in Boca Raton, Florida. Members of the Boca Raton Airport Action Group say have said that some of the current five members on the airport authority are "arrogant, contentious, and disingenuous." The new bill will create a seven-person authority; previously, members had been appointed by the Chamber of Commerce, but now the City Council will appoint five while the County Commission will select two. Three of the city's choices must live east of the airport, and one must live to the west; these stipulations help to insure that authority members will understand what it's like to live in a flight path. The bill is intended to make the authority more understanding and responsive to residents' concerns.
The article goes on to say that residents in the western flight path have been the most vocal supporters of the bill. While critics say the new authority won't be any better, BRAGG's chairwoman said "the thing about community activism is we won't know unless we try." A former authority member said that political appointees may often be concerned about the issue while not being knowledgeable. The authority will be replaced gradually, as terms expire; two members will be added immediately to bring the total up to seven. One current member said he hopes the new structure will work, but claimed that balancing noise with regulations is harder than it may seem.
The story continues, saying that the bill was prompted by record numbers of noise complaints prompted by a 42 percent increase in takeoffs in the last ten years; takeoffs and landings are up to 136,000 each year.
PUBLICATION: The Washington Post
DATE: April 30, 1999
SECTION: Style; Pg. C09
BYLINE: Bob Levey
DATELINE: Washington D.C.
The Washington Post prints a humorous column which examines noise laws in Washington D.C. The columnists discusses a shoe store which blares loud music and promos, as well as a hockey game at MCI Center where the public address system is extremely loud. He notes that while Washington's 1981 noise laws prohibits "loud noises . . . upon the streets or public places," it does not prohibit loud noise in private places (such as the two venues mentioned) where the public sometimes goes. The columnist's theory is that promoters believe high volume will encourage the spending of money.
PUBLICATION: Chicago Tribune
DATE: April 30, 1999
SECTION: Metro Chicago; Pg. 3; Zone: N
DATELINE: Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Tribune reports that 27 former or current firefighters in Chicago are suing Federal Signal Corporation, claiming that defective sirens emitted excessively intense sound that permanently damaged their hearing.
PUBLICATION: Chicago Tribune
DATE: April 30, 1999
SECTION: SECTION: METRO CHICAGO; Pg. 2; ZONE: N
BYLINE: Karen Craven
DATELINE: Cook County, Illinois
The Chicago Tribune reports that about a dozen Cook County, Illinois residents living near Midway Airport are asking the County Board of Review to relieve some of their property tax burden, saying that airport noise lowers property values. Residents told of " jet fuel being dropped in swimming pools, levels of noise so high that phone conversations are not possible and windows that don't stop rattling," but the Board would not take action.
The article goes on, saying that residents claim the County assessor's office is not taking the problems associated with living near an airport when property values are set. Homeowners are having to sell their homes up to 23 percent below the assessed price because of airport noise. Commissioners claimed that home sales and new construction in the area are up, but residents countered that this is because of firefighters and police moving into the area.
PUBLICATION: The Associated Press State & Local Wire
DATE: April 29, 1999
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Manteo, North Carolina
The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that federal officials have banned the use of jet-skis or personal water craft near Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Water craft will be banned from landing or launching from any beach in the Seashore, which encompasses 80 miles on each side of the islands. Operators must stay 150 feet from the Seashore along Pamlico Sound, but can be as close to the beach as they want where the Seashore has no jurisdiction. On private property they will still be allowed.
The article continues, noting that many fishermen have complained of personal water craft disruptions, both physical and noise-related. 102 of 250 boat accidents this year involved personal water craft, and five have died operating a personal water craft this year. Legislation currently being considered would set an age minimum of 13 for personal water craft riders.
PUBLICATION: The Associated Press State & Local Wire
DATE: April 29, 1999
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Evansville, Indiana
The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a new Evansville, Indiana noise ordinance will forbid car stereos and boom boxes from being heard 30 feet away. Police will now be able to identify violators by measuring distance, and will not need decibel meters. Increasing noise complaints from residents prompted the new ordinance. About 50 residents attended a recent city council meeting to support the ordinance.
The article continues, noting that audio and video equipment already in police cars will be used to record evidence once the officer has determined the violator is 30 feet away. Fines will be $50, $200, and $350 for the first, second, and third offenses respectively; parents will be responsible for fines levied on minors.
The story also notes that Portage, Indiana has recently proposed an ordinance that would similarly forbid music from being heard 75 feet away; the distance was taken from a Chicago noise ordinance, and may be reduced in the final proposal. The city only has one decibel meter for forty squad cars, so this new ordinance makes enforcement far easier.
PUBLICATION: The Buffalo News
DATE: April 29, 1999
SECTION: Local, Pg. 1B
BYLINE: Lou Michel
DATELINE: Buffalo, New York
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Nicolai, president of Fargo Estate Neighborhood Association
The Buffalo News reports that Buffalo, New York is planning a crackdown on noise during the early summer. An existing curfew says children 16 years and younger can not be out after 11 PM on a week night, or midnight on a weekend, unattended. Police say that with crime dropping, they have more time to enforce minor violations like these; also, all police officers now carry a booklet detailing noise ordinances.
The article continues, noting that officials will compare the number of summonses to decide whether enforcement is actually working. Community Groups are pleased that police will now pay more attention to their concerns. Other common noise-related complaints center around taxi drivers and pizza delivery drivers who honk their horns to summon their customers; police will be talking to those businesses to reduce those violations.
PUBLICATION: Financial Times
DATE: April 29, 1999
SECTION: World Trade; Pg. 08
BYLINE: Michael Skapinker
DATELINE: Washington D.C.
The Financial Times reports that the European Union has agreed to postpone legislation by one year that would ban hush-kitted airplanes from EU airspace. Originally, the 2002 ban was to be applied to hush-kitted planes that had not operated in the EU before May 1999. The ban is aimed at quieting airplanes, since older hush-kitted airplanes -- like the Boeing 727, the DC-9, and early Boeing 737s -- are still louder than newer, quieter planes.
The article goes on to say that the U.S. is pleased with the ban, saying it will not ban Concorde flights to the U.S. as it had threatened, and it will work with the EU to create the next set of regulation. The EU is more strict with airplane noise since population densities are higher there than in the U.S.
PUBLICATION: High Point Enterprise
DATE: April 29, 1999
BYLINE: Paul B. Johnson
DATELINE: Greensboro, North Carolina
High Point Enterprise reports that over 400 residents of Greensboro, North Carolina, who attended a recent meeting to update them on the new $300 million FedEx hub planned for Piedmont Triad International Airport, remain divided in their opinions. Proponents say that the 1,500 jobs that will be created, and the hub's attractiveness to other industries, make the hub a great idea. Opponents are worried that the pollution and other environmental concerns will be a problem, in addition to increased noise over surrounding neighborhoods.
The article continues, noting that the update was centered around the FAA's environmental impact study, which it plans to finish by the summer of 2000; the hub would open in four years if all goes well. The meeting included displays showing possible configurations for the hub. The hub proposal includes the construction of a third runway; FedEx claims the third runway is required, while the local Piedmont Quality of Life Coalition has submitted an alternate proposal that places the hub along one of the existing runways, which would place the hug in a more commercial area.
The FAA says it has received 501 letters regarding the project, 417 of which came from members of the public; most of these were in support of the hub. Those who did object most often cited noise and economic impact. Property values for those selling houses are uncertain because the hub's placement has not been decided yet, since increased noise in certain areas could lower their property value.
PUBLICATION: Orlando Sentinel Tribune
DATE: April 29, 1999
SECTION: A Section; Pg. A1
BYLINE: Scott Maxwell
DATELINE: Orlando, Florida
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Lou Roeder, member of homeowners association
The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that Universal Studios' new second amusement park -- complete with roller-coasters -- is causing noise that irritate local residents. For up to 12 hours each day, the coasters can be heard; some say their homes are rattled. Residents say they had no idea roller-coasters might be installed when they bought their homes years ago; the park is trying to be sensitive, building a 55-foot wall that will supposedly reduce noise to the level of passing cars. The homeowners association has a committee working on the noise issues.
The article continues, saying that County commissioners have fielded many complaints, and plan to re-monitor noise levels at the homes closest to the park. Noise was measured when the first complaints were made, and the levels didn't exceed the 60 decibels that the County allows before 10 PM.
PUBLICATION: The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News
DATE: April 29, 1999
SECTION: A Section; Pg. A1
BYLINE: Adam Chrzan and Tim Yeadon
DATELINE: Vero Beach, Florida
The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports that residents of Vero Beach, Florida, who have endured years of noisy low-flying planes from the Municipal Airport, came home to find wreckage of a plane crash in their backyard near the children's swing set. John O'Neal, owner of the home, was unfazed, saying "If you're going to live near an airport, you have to live with noise and whatever else." Four people died in the crash.
PUBLICATION: The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: Nwanews; Pg. A1
BYLINE: Pamela Hill, and Laura Kellams
DATELINE: Fayetteville, Arkansas
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that a recent noise citation against Bakery Feeds in Fayetteville, Arkansas is the latest in a battle to closed down the plant. When police arrived to monitor noise from the unloading of trucks, much of the commotion had stopped but readings from dehydrating equipment inside the plant still exceeded the local noise ordinance. The city has already sued to close the animal feed plant because it is in the wrong zone, but neighbors want the suit expanded to include nuisance issues. Neighbors have banded together with their own lawsuit, claiming the plant is a private nuisance and demanding that the plant close down and pay property owners for drops in their property values.
The article continues, noting that a private nuisance causes "substantial and unreasonable interference with another's use of his own land", while a public nuisance "violates rights that should be available to all residents of the area." Effects on neighbors have included early morning unloading, odors, deposition of smoke and dust that causes respiratory problems and settles on cars and other surfaces, and pooling grease and oil waste that draws animals and their wastes. Property values have been reduced by as much as 20-30 percent.
The story continues, saying that the plant claims the city waited too long to approach it about operating in the wrong zone. The issue surfaced when the plant tried to put in a taller exhaust stack, which would have actually reduced nearby odors and deposition of particulates. The Ozarks Headwaters Group of the Sierra Club joined Friends for Fayetteville in calling for a city suit that would seek to shut down the plant.
The article discusses the current noise ordinances, which limit noise to 60 decibels between 7 AM and 11 PM, and to 55 at other times; the noise on neighbors property at 3:30 AM at the time of the complaint was 59.5 decibels.
PUBLICATION: Chicago Sun-Times
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: Nws; Pg. 16
BYLINE: Robert C. Herguth
DATELINE: Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Sun-Times reports that O'Hare Airport plans to begin using Flight Management Systems (FMS) after two months of successful testing showed that they are effective. FMS relies on electronic navigation to guide planes more tightly along designated flight paths; currently, pilots rely on compass readings from the control tower and can not completely compensate for factors such as wind. Following tighter flight paths would mean reducing the residential areas that are impacted by noise from aircraft.
The article continues, saying that Chicago's aviation commissioner believes that FMS should be in place by the end of the year, and should help ease noise burdens on suburbs near the airport. The technology would be used by departures only. The airport plans to ask several airlines to participate in the plan, but it's unclear how many flights and runways will be included. Noisier Stage 2 aircraft, which compound the noise problems -- which can affect 104 square miles with 65 decibels of noise -- are to be phased out by the end of the year.
PUBLICATION: The Florida Times-Union
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: Community News; Pg. 1
BYLINE: Peralte C. Paul
DATELINE: Jacksonville, Florida
The Florida Times-Union reports that a flyover ramp in Jacksonville, Florida -- designed to take pressure off of a busy intersection that currently serves approximately 116,000 motorists -- is drawing objections from residents who don't want the increased noise. Residents claim that new traffic will now be on their streets, raising noise levels. The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) has prioritized the plan, along with the Florida Department of Transportation because of the severely congested intersection. It is estimated that a proposed connector will reduce traffic at the intersection to 89,000 by 2010, but the flyway is still needed.
The article also notes that the plan calls for widening the Intracoastal Waterway Bridge to six lanes, which will also increase noise for nearby residents. Noise mitigation is not mentioned in the plan. A meeting between residents and the Jacksonville Transportation Authority is planned this week. The plan has already been delayed several months to address residents' aesthetic concerns. While some residents say another Connector will alleviate some of the traffic, officials say the flyover would still be needed.
PUBLICATION: The Fresno Bee
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: Life, Pg. E8, Food -- Health Q&A
BYLINE: Dr. Peter H. Gott
The Fresno Bee prints a question and answer column addressing a parent's concern over a school dance that caused ringing in his child's ears. The responding doctor explained that loud sounds can shear delicate hair cells from the wall of the cochlea; the hairs usually vibrate and register sounds, but violent sounds can be too much for them. This shearing causes permanent hearing damage. Generally, if sound causes pain or ringing in the ears, it can also cause permanent hearing damage. Damage usually effects the midrange of hearing, which can make it hard to hear normal conversations. Ear plugs can help reduce the intensity of loud sounds, reducing damage.
PUBLICATION: The Morning Call
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: Local/Region, Pg. B12
BYLINE: Zackie Due
DATELINE: Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania
The Morning Call reports that a new noise ordinance in Upper Saucon, Pennsylvania tightens existing language, specifying decibel limits for different types of zones; the ordinance comes in response to resident complaints and an ambiguous definition of what constitutes a firing range. In residential and conservation zones, noise may not exceed 64 dB from 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday, and may not exceed 58 dB at other times. Noise from commercial zones must be kept under 70 decibels from 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday, and below 65 decibels at other times. Noise from industrial and agricultural zones must be below 74 decibels at all times.
The article continues, noting numerous exemptions. Exemptions include: emergency warning devices, emergency work to restore public utilities, 8 AM to 9 PM operation of domestic power tools or lawn and garden equipment, construction, agricultural uses, motor vehicles on public roads, authorized public celebrations, railroads, aircraft, church bells, gunshots during hunting season and in legitimate pursuit of game or in the two weeks prior to hunting season to 'sight-in' a weapon, and unamplified human voices.
The story continues, noting that firing ranges will have to comply with NRA standards. The Town Supervisors maintain that an increasing population density has necessitated the regulation of noise and firearms since more people are likely to be effected by any noise or safety hazard.
PUBLICATION: The Post and Courier
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: B, Pg. 03
BYLINE: Robert Behre
DATELINE: Charleston, South Carolina
The Post and Courier reports that when the Charleston, South Carolina City Council was asked by the Charleston Riverdogs -- management for Joseph P. Riley Jr. baseball stadium to reduce its cut of food sales at rock concerts, the city did not answer immediately. The management wants to hold 6-8 concerts this year in the park, where a concert last year drew noise complaints from neighbors. The Council is also concerned about reports that a black promoter experienced difficulty in leasing the facility.
The article continues, noting that the management of the stadium had requested but did not receive a response by the end of the month. Concerts in the last two years have netted the city $20,000, and the proposed concerts could mean $35,000-40,000 more, even with reduced food-sale percentages. The Council is still wary and wants to investigate the potential impacts before making a decision. Reducing the city's cut of food sales would allow the Park to be more competitive for concerts.
PUBLICATION: Chicago Tribune
DATE: April 28, 1999
SECTION: Metro Chicago; Pg. 6; Zone: N
BYLINE: Rogers Worthington
DATELINE: Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Tribune reports that the Noise Compatibility Commission of Chicago's O'Hare Airport asked airlines to determine how well their pilots adhere to prescribed "fly quiet" paths between 10 PM and 7 AM. The flight paths are determined to avoid most residential areas and reduce subsequent noise impacts, but "strong wind, erring compasses, and pilot or air-traffic control decisions" can cause deviations.
The article goes on to say that a test to determine adherence to flight paths was performed in 1996, but not enough data were gathered to reach a firm conclusion. Nevertheless, it revealed that new "flight management systems" (FMS) help to electronically keep airplanes on a strict course; FMS has already begun to replace older equipment. Airlines have reason to improve their adherence, since airport improvement dollars -- that could otherwise be used to improve their concourses and runways -- will be designated to soundproof homes that are still in a 70 dB impact area in the year 2000.
PUBLICATION: Aviation Litigation Reporter
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: Vol. 16; No. 22; Pg. 5
DATELINE: Burbank, California
Aviation Litigation Reporter reports that after the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority used noise standards that were less strict than traditional California airport noise standards, the city of Los Angeles argues that "the Authority should not be allowed to use a "less sensitive" standard in connection with a planned expansion of airport operations." The Authority argues that the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) does not specify which noise standards must be used, and that their use of alternative "incremental" criteria instead of the standard 65 dB limits is completely legal.
The article goes on to note that in the Authority's study, it was found that 50 homes would be significantly affected by 2010 and noise abatement measures were unnecessary. If the authority had used the traditional noise standards, it would have found that 500 homes will be affected. The Authority maintains that CEQA does not endorse any specific criteria, nor does it specify how differences of opinion between experts should be resolved. In addition, it says that the criteria it used are closer to the FAA's criteria, which require analysis of 65 dB impacts only when there will be an increase of at least 1.5 dB.
PUBLICATION: The Gazette
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: News; A3
BYLINE: Michael Mainville
DATELINE: Montreal, Canada
The Gazette reports that the Montreal Urban Community (MUC) released a favorable report, touting the benefits of its single police helicopter, which costs between $80,000 and $110,000 each year. Some residents, along with Mile End city counselor Helen Fotopulos believe that the benefits are overstated and noise disruption is too much to justify its continued operation. The MUC believes that the public does not realize all of the benefits, and hopes that education could reduce objections.
The article continues, noting that the special forces division has used the copter to apprehend 408 suspects, "including 32 for breaking and entering, 26 prowlers and nine armed robbers." The MUC also claimed that the helicopter is invaluable in missing people searches. They acknowledged noise complaints, but noted that any helicopter noise is often assumed to be due to the police even if it is another helicopter. Also, they claim they use the second-quietest helicopter available, and at an altitude of 150 meters -- though they are usually at least doubly as high -- only create 85 dB of noise on the ground; this is comparable to standing 7.5 meters from a motorcycle.
The story goes on, noting that Fotopulos believes the money would be better spent on increasing ground-based police protection.
PUBLICATION: Press Association
DATE: April 27, 1999
BYLINE: John Aston
DATELINE: London, England
The Press Association reports on a successful appeal in London, England by a landlord who was ordered to soundproof his apartments against traffic noise. The High Court ruled that although environmental laws require that apartments not compromise the tenants health, noise from street vehicles is not considered a statutory nuisance that could compromise health. The landlord had refused to soundproof his apartments, and was taken to court; his successful appeal frees him of the order for the time being. The presiding judges noted that railway noise was not exempted, though it was not an issue in this case.
PUBLICATION: Sarasota Herald-Tribune
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: A Section, Pg. 8A
DATELINE: Manatee County, Florida
The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that a new noise ordinance in Manatee County, Florida will sets strict noise limits and stiff penalties. Fines may be as high as $500, and even a 60-day jail term may be levied in the worst cases. In addition, a 'reasonable person standard' allows officers to issue citations in cases where the numerical noise limits are met while the situation seems unreasonable.
The article continues, noting that the ordinance was prompted by continuing complaints about nightclubs, parties, and airboats; the County Fairgrounds has been one major source of noise disturbances. County officials plan to make sure that officers have sufficient equipment and training to enforce the laws.
PUBLICATION: The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: Letters To The Editor; Pg. A7
DATELINE: Stuart, Florida
The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News prints the following Letter to the Editor, by a resident who discounts the claims that a new Witham Field Runway is being built for safety concerns. He notes the relocation of two jet repair businesses to the area as proof that the airport plans to expand. He also notes increased noise and pollution from an expanding airport.
Editor:
I would like the residents of Martin County to consider what is happening over at Witham Field.
As most probably know, the runway was expanded, or upgraded as they wish to call it, for safety reasons only. I can't remember there ever being any accidents over there, and of course nor do I ever wish there to be one.
Now supposedly this expansion or upgrading was done for safety reasons, but it seems as though there has been a tremendous amount of larger, much noisier aircraft going in and out. Actually, I know there is.
You don't suppose the so-called upgrading of the facilities is just coincidental to the fact that we now have huge, eardrum-splitting aircraft flying in and out of Witham Field at all hours of the day and night?
I also doubt the fact that a company known as Aerodyne Corp., which repairs and inspects turbine jet aircraft engines, just set up shop in town because it figures it's going to remain a small, quiet airport. There is also talk of a business that repairs Lear jet engines on its way to town to set up shop. Does anyone think it's because they think the airport is going to get smaller or remain the same as it was? Not hardly. For any of these businesses to be prosperous, they must have to be around a hustling, bustling airport - which this one was not originally designed for, not should it ever be.
Now to briefly discuss the environmental impact. All one has to do is drive down Monterey Road when a jet has taken off in the past 10 minutes and get gagged with the putrid smell of jet fuel. I wonder where all that residue ends up? My guess in on your lawn, trees, swimming pools, lungs, etc. Perhaps the huge noise increase doesn't bother you - then think of the environmental impact from the jet fuel.
It seems as though the commissioners jump to attention on some matters that seem trivial, and on one that has such a huge impact as this they are apparently asleep at the wheel. I encourage Martin County residents to voice their opinion on this subject, pro or con (hopefully against), to keep it on everyone's mind until the issues of safety, noise and environmental impact are satisfactorily resolved.
Incidentally, if anyone tells me to move north, I respond to them by saying it would be a shorter trip to find these conditions by going south.
Brad Hayden
Stuart
PUBLICATION: Sun-Sentinel
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: Local, Pg. 3B
BYLINE: Stella M. Ch Vez
DATELINE: Boca Raton, Florida
The Sun-Sentinel reports that the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) will make its recommendation next week to the Federal Highway Department on whether and how to build noise walls on U.S. 441 near Boca Raton. Residents have been split between those wanting relief from growing traffic noise, and those who believe the 18-foot walls will ruin their views and property values, creating "a walled city."
The story goes on, noting that opponents of the wall suggested placing a shorter 7-foot wall on top of a berm, but the DOT claims that the additional 48 feet of land that would be required for such a project would cost too much; also, the land is owned by the Lake Worth Drainage District, which would likely not sell the land to begin with. Opponents of the wall also worry that sunlight will be decreased, but the walls should cast a shadow only 18-feet from the road that will not reach homes.
The article continues, saying that because of a two-year road-widening project scheduled to begin in November, traffic noise in the area is likely to increase, making the noise walls a timely issue. The Federal Highway Department will have one month after they receive the DOT's recommendation to make a decision on the noise walls; federal law requires noise walls to be built in areas where traffic noise reaches 67 decibels.
PUBLICATION: The Times Union
DATE: April 27, 1999
SECTION: CAPITAL Region, Pg. B1
BYLINE: Elizabeth Benjamin
DATELINE: Albany, New York
The Times Union reports that plans for a $1-million helicopter landing pad atop Albany Medical Center Hospital in New York's capital is drawing different opinions from neighbors. Some believe that the noise will be too much, saying that a test-run shook his floor and windows; in addition, residents worry about dropping property values and the risk of crashes, and they asked the Zoning Board of Appeals to reject the hospital's proposal. Others including members of the Park Slope Neighborhood Association, which believes that any problems will be negligible next to the potential to save human lives.
The article continues, noting that the hospital's helicopter already flies 650 times a year, but lands ten minutes away from the hospital; the helipad would shave minutes off response time in emergency situations, potentially saving more lives. The success of the hospital's trauma unit and the fact that the hospital may soon be designated a heart transplant center makes a roof-top helipad even more important. Two approach routes have been designated that would minimize the noise over residential neighbors; in addition, the helicopter will fly at least 150 feet from the ground.
PUBLICATION: Seattle Post-Intelligencer
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: Editorial, Pg. A7
DATELINE: Seattle, Washington
The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports that a new enforcement policy proposed in Seattle, Washington's City Council will help local police enforce laws against nuisances such as absentee landlords who don't remove junk from their properties, excessively loud parties and other noise, and "neighbors who operate obtrusive businesses out of their residences." In the past, the complicated enforcement process required several warnings, waiting periods, deadlines, and opportunities for appeals that provided many loopholes; one front-yard car-repair business operated through 30 years of complaints by manipulating the system.
The article continues, noting that the new system will allow immediate citations, and an appeal process that will be processed swiftly; failure to pay fines could result in stiffer penalties. The new system "fits well with [the city's] 'broken windows' campaign, which holds that if you repair a broken window, you prevent blight and maintain an environment of abiding by the law. Fail to fix the windows, and soon other fixtures go unrepaired and there grows up an atmosphere in which order and community pride don't matter." Exemptions will be provided for those, such as disabled people or elderly people who live alone, who "are unable to abate a nuisance."
PUBLICATION: St. Petersburg Times
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: Citrus TIMES; Pg. 4
BYLINE: Scott Calvert
DATELINE: Spring Hill, Florida
The St. Petersburg Times reports that music from Spring Hill, Florida's nightclub Planet Bubba is too loud for residents, though the volume is under local decibel limits. Though the club is located in a commercial district, nearby residents complain that the bass remains too loud and disrupts their sleep. Owner of the nightclub and local radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge Clem claims that he spent $50,000 on a 'compressor limiter' to cap the amplified volume, insulated walls, and moved entrances in an attempt to limit noise; he is upset that he is still being hounded even though he meets the noise ordinance.
The article continues, noting that Clem had opened another club in 1995 that closed after two months of similar complaints drove him away. This time, a 12-year lease and $300,000 investment will give him a larger incentive to keep the club open. Police will continue to visit the club and monitor noise in the hopes that noise limits are exceeded; officers admit that bass does not register well on their noise-meters, which may explain why the music sounds so loud while appearing to be at a legal volume. Residents say that from 9 PM to 2 AM Wednesday through Saturday, music makes it impossible for them to sleep.
PUBLICATION: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: North Post, Pg. 8
BYLINE: Linda Briggs-Harty
DATELINE: Pasadena Park, Missouri
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that 20 new noise-monitoring devices spread throughout communities surrounding St. Louis, Missouri's Lambert Field Airport will show airport officials the details of airport noise impacts. The devices determine day-night level decibels (DNLs), and will also include "aircraft types, flight times and altitude related to noise levels." The FAA's Regulation Part 150 sets noise mitigation guidelines that include the use of monitoring devices. Airport officials also hope that the increasingly-used, quieter Stage 3 aircraft will help reduce noise as well.
The article continues, noting that the data will be available to the public at a computer located in the airport authority office. If DNLs reach 70 decibels or above, the airport must offer to buyout the homes in question. For DNLs of 65 or more, options include soundproofing homes, paying homeowners the amount that their property value has been reduced, or buying an easement to allow overflights. Individual homes may be checked with a portable noise monitor in a process that takes about a year, yielding more specific data for particular locations.
PUBLICATION: U.S. News & World Report
DATE: April 26, 1999
SECTION: News You Can Use; Health; Cover Story; Pg. 66
BYLINE: Linda Kulman ; Jennifer M. Couzin; Kenneth Terrell
DATELINE: United States
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Laurie Hanin of the League for the Hard of Hearing, Les Blomberg of Noise Pollution Clearinghouse, John Wheeler, president of the Deafness Research Foundation, Nancy Nadler, director of the Noise Center for the League for the Hard of Hearing in New York
U.S. News & World Report reports that Americans are losing their hearing at younger ages -- sometimes even as teenagers -- than previous generations. While OSHA has worked to limit noise exposure in the workplace, little has been done to regulate recreational noise exposure. The article is laden with statistics and decibel values for common noise sources, as well as stories of individuals who have been affected by noise from sources such as the following: concerts, gunfire, the military, rallies, fire engines, and even music at health clubs. One startling statistic is that the Veterans' Administration has spent $4 billion dealing because of hearing loss from 1977-1998.
The article continues, noting National Health Interview Survey data that suggested from 1971-1990, hearing problems increased 26 percent in people ages 45-64. There was an increase of 17 percent in people ages 18-44. In a California study over 30 years, there was a 150 percent increase in hearing loss for men ages 50-59. The Journal of the American Medical Association said that 15 percent of children between 6 and 19 have experienced hearing loss.
The story goes on, noting that of the 28 million Americans with hearing loss, one third of them can attribute their problem to 'toxic noise.' Loud workplaces remain the most common cause of hearing loss, but home and recreational noise is becoming an increasing problem. Music, appliances, and even children's toys can carry significant risk.
The paper continues, discussing the history of consumer warnings regarding home and recreational products. One example is a Playskool clock that "registers 79 decibels at adult arm's length but 125 decibels at close range...." Laurie Hanin of the League for the Hard of Hearing says "Children are going to suffer more than adults because they're still learning language." Despite that fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission does not regulate noise levels for any toys except cap guns, which can legally exceed noise levels comparable to a commercial jet taking off. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) opened an office for Noise Abatement and Control in 1972, it was closed down in the 1980s; it was designed to develop standards for "everything from railroad equipment to lawn mowers," labeling ear-protection as well as noise-producing products. Currently proposed legislation may reintroduce a federal noise-control office.
The story goes on to deal with the physiology of hearing loss. Genetics, previous inner-ear damage, chemical exposure or over-the-counter medications like aspirin can affect an individuals sensitivity to noise. Single loud noises can damage the tissue of the inner ear, but extended loud noise is the more common culprit; it distends auditory cells called hair cells, and after excessive exposure -- like heavy furniture on a shag rug for months -- some of the 20-30,000 cells won't return to their healthy shape.
The article mentions that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires workers exposed to an average of 90 dBs for more than an 8-hour day to wear ear protection. Some hearing experts have argued for tougher regulation. Many smaller businesses don't even comply with the existing regulations, and agricultural and construction workers aren't protected by OSHA regulations at all.
The article continues, noting that musicians have been the target for many educational campaigns designed to prevent hearing loss. An orchestra member is quoted as saying "it's just not as much fun" to play with ear plugs. Hearing Education and Awareness for Rockers, which has been working to educate rock musicians and fans about hearing loss, has met with only modest success.
The article concludes by noting that air bags, which save lives in automobile accidents, discharge at an ear-splitting 167-170 decibels. This noise has already caused hearing impairment in at least 60 people.
PUBLICATION: The Boston Globe
DATE: April 25, 1999
SECTION: City Weekly; Pg. 2
BYLINE: Thomas B. Bracken
DATELINE: Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Boston Globe prints a letter from Thomas Bracken, a member of the Truck Traffic Advisory Committee in Boston's Cambridge neighborhood. Bracken says that a proposed ban on the use of local Cambridge streets by late-night through-truckers with no local destination will quiet the streets; he holds that opponents in Belmont who believed the curfew would increase noise in their town are mistaken, and that the ban will benefit all communities within Boston.
This is in response to the item in the April 11 Cambridge Notes on Belmont's opposition to the effort to restrict trucks on Cambridge streets.
More than 600 residents signed a petition to amend the Zoning Ordinance to prohibit large trucks from using Cambridge streets at night as a shortcut through the city. As a member of the city manager's Truck Traffic Advisory Committee, I want to assure residents of Belmont and other neighboring communities that neither the intention nor, I believe, the effect of the nighttime curfew is to increase truck traffic on the streets of Belmont or other cities and towns.
To the contrary, such a curfew likely will mitigate the noises and vibrations that now disturb the sleep of many throughout this area, including Belmont.
Through trucks currently use Cambridge streets, which connect with streets in Belmont, Somerville, Watertown, and Arlington as an integrated truck route system that bypasses interstate highways such as routes 93 and 95 and the Mass. Pike.
Apparently, truckers find using local streets in the middle of the night faster and less expensive than traveling on highways and toll roads designed for long-haul transport by large trucks. The purpose of the Cambridge curfew is to require large trucks with origins and destinations outside the city to use the interstate highway system instead of residential streets. Thus, the measure would not interfere with commercial activity in the city.
Enforcement of these restrictions in Cambridge should benefit other communities. A ban on trucks using Kirkland, Brattle, and Mt. Auburn streets and Concord Avenue in Cambridge, for example, would make it less feasible for through trucks to gain access to the portion of Mt. Auburn Street and Concord Avenue in Belmont and Washington Street in Somerville that now are heavily used by through trucks with no origin or destination in those towns.
Enacting the curfew under the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance does not violate any state or federal laws as the highest federal court in this region recently held.
THOMAS B. BRACKEN
Truck Traffic Advisory Commitee member
PUBLICATION: The Spokesman-Review
DATE: April 25, 1999
SECTION: The Region, Pg. B1
BYLINE: John Craig
DATELINE: Newport, Washington
The Spokesman-Review reports the local police chief in Newport, Washington wants to ban excessively-loud bass-heavy car stereos that disrupt local residents and businesses. An employee of a local chiropractic clinic said "We don't let [economically important] loggers use jake brakes, so why do we let young people boom us out?" The police chief lives 100-200 feet from U.S. 2, but can still hear the loudest stereos. Other members of the City Council haven't heard complaints and don't believe it's a problem; they'd prefer to rely on the existing ordinance.
The article continues, noting that the City Attorney says the existing ordinance has no objective measures that allow consistent enforcement. He is studying ordinances passed elsewhere in communities such as Tacoma, Davenport, and Kettle Falls that regulate stereos. These ordinances set a distance at which it is illegal to hear a car stereo, or a maximum decibel limit.
PUBLICATION: The Salt Lake Tribune
DATE: May 1, 1999
SECTION: Utah; Pg. D1
BYLINE: John Keahey
DATELINE: Salt Lake Valley, Utah
The Salt Lake Tribune reports that 150 residents from Utah's Salt Lake Valley communities packed a Transportation Commission Meeting to voice varied opinions over Interstate 215 sound walls. Two years ago, residents demanded sound walls from the Commission in the same areas; some commissioners doubted their effectiveness along a hillside, but approved the $1 million project in response to pressure from state officials. While some still love the walls, the recent meeting was filled with even more people who want the walls demolished to regain the valley views they love more than quiet. Some comments regarding the Department of Transportation's decision making process prompted the commission to promise a look at the original decision to build the walls. The question is, was the public educated as to the impact the walls would have?
PUBLICATION: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram
DATE: May 1, 1999
SECTION: Metro; Pg. 1
BYLINE: Tawnell D. Hobbs
DATELINE: Grand Prairie, Texas
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Texas Motorplex, a 43,000 seat drag racing facility currently located in Ennis, would give a huge economic boost to Grand Prairie if it moved there. The move was proposed by the facility owner, and a city-initiated study indicates that the economic benefits would be great. Grand Prairie already has an airport, a railroad track, a major highway, and two drag-racing strips; officials claim that the new "facility will be consistent with the existing noise environment."
The article continues, noting that the facility owner would gain a more central location. The community in turn would gain $2.5 million in tax revenues for cities and $2 million for school districts as well as 1,500 jobs. The study estimated that "the benefits of relocating the track include the creation of 2,372 new housing units, which could result in a higher property tax base; 516,296 square feet of office space; 1.5 million square feet of industrial space; 1.2 million square feet of retail space; and 1,126 hotel and motel rooms. About 30 percent to 50 percent of the development will occur in Grand Prairie, the study says."
The article goes on to say that if the city council interpret the study's numbers favorably, they could ask for a sales tax hike of up to half of a cent to help pay for the $40 million project along with the city's master plan for parks and property tax relief.
PUBLICATION: The Chicago Tribune
DATE: May 1, 1999
SECTION: News; Pg. 5; Zone: D
BYLINE: Denise Linke
DATELINE: Bensenville, Illinois
The Chicago Tribune reports that the Village Board of Bensenville, Illinois will continue to give soundproofing priority to homes located closest to Chicago's O'Hare Airport. The latest noise-maps from the Chicago Department of Aviation that show the 70-decibel impact area shifting northeast and away from Bensenville. Bensenville officials say the maps are ridiculous, saying that they are based on computer models when they had agreed with the airport to use actual noise monitor data. The Aviation Department funds soundproofing of homes in areas where noise impacts reach or exceed 70 decibels over a 24-hour period.
The article goes on to say that the Aviation Department stands by their 'state of the art' map, which combines computer modeling with actual noise monitor data. In addition, they say that an independent consultant has agreed that it is accurate. Village officials feel that the Aviation Department may have skewed the data to reward communities to the east who favor O'Hare's expansion plans.
The article concludes by noting that Bensenville residents in the west are worried they will not get any soundproofing now that the maps indicate a shift in noise impact. Currently, of the 948 homes in the Bensenville 70 decibel zone, 281 have already been soundproofed in the last three years; this year, 84 more will be soundproofed.
PUBLICATION: The Associated Press State & Local Wire
DATE: May 1, 1999
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Littleton, Colorado
The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a rock concert by Lenny Kravitz was cut off in mid-song in Littleton, Colorado when a county curfew on sound was broken. Arapahoe county negotiated a 10:30 curfew on sound at the Fiddler's Green amphitheater, and the concert promoter pulled the plug promptly at 10:30 in order to comply. Kravitz started the show late due to equipment problems, and warned the audience that he may be cut off. Some attendees were upset, and called demanding their money back, despite the fact that the concert had run for some 4.5 hours.
The article continues, noting that continued noise complaints about ten years ago prompted the county to negotiate an agreement with the amphitheater to keep noise levels below 62 decibels and end promptly at 10:30.
PUBLICATION: The Associated Press State & Local Wire
DATE: May 1, 1999
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Salt Lake City, Utah
The Associated Press State and Local Wire reports that Utah's Transportation Commission is caught between residents who like noise-walls and those who hate them. Some residents say the walls allow them to enjoy their yards again without shouting over highway noise. Others want the walls demolished, arguing that their views of the valley are more important. The Department of Transportation will be remeasuring noise levels in June to determine if the sound walls have effectively reduced noise.
The article goes on to say that a recent public hearing regarding proposed noise walls on Interstate 215 was packed with 150 area residents from different points of view. Some comments from the meeting prompted a commission promise to research how Department of Transportation officials made the decisions to erect sound walls in the past, paying special attention to whether there was adequate public comment. Two years ago, a similar session was packed with residents who were overwhelmingly in favor of the walls.
Previous week: April 18, 1999
Next week: May 2, 1999
Aircraft Noise
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Effects on Wildlife/Animals
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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
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Violence and Noise
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Chronological Index
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