PUBLICATION: Journal of Commerce
DATE: September 21, 1999
SECTION: Air Commerce; Pg. 9
BYLINE: by Robert Koenig
DATELINE: Frankfurt, Germany
The Journal of Commerce reports that the Airport in Frankfurt Germany, which is currently the number one cargo-hub in Europe, is trying to insure that it will stay at the top. Future expansion plans may add a fourth runway, new aircraft parking, and a new terminal. Noise measures that were undertaken to stem noise-related objections to expansion have resulted in 98% of the airports aircraft being in the quieter category. The Airport's location, and the fact that the second-largest air-cargo company in the world is based there, helps to keep Frankfurt competitive.
The article reports that the Airport in Frankfurt Germany, which is currently the number one cargo-hub in Europe, is trying to insure that it will stay at the top. Expansion plans include the addition of a fourth runway to raise its current takeoff/landing capacity from 83 each hour to a more competitive 120.
The article says that the Airport has taken a proactive stance on noise in the hopes of stemming possible noise-related objections to expansion by charging lower landing fees to airlines who use aircraft in a quieter category. They have also banned the noisier aircraft from operating after 10 PM at night. These measures have increased the percentage of quieter-category aircraft to 98.
The article notes that although Frankfurt's prime location, speed, and price are still quiet competitive, its capacity is lower than other airports. Later this year, the Airport together with local government will decide between sixteen possible expansion options. A nearby U.S. Air Force base -- which is being closed -- will provide 380 more acres to the Airport that may be used for aircraft parking or a new terminal.
The article goes on to note that the Airport is home to Lufthansa Cargo AG -- the world's largest cargo carrier besides FedEx -- and helps to keep Frankfurt competitive. Together, they have modernized one cargo complex and added another. Good rail and highway connections also make the Airport attractive to shippers.
The article also says that in 1998, cargo tonnage dropped by 2.9 percent -- in part because of unstable Asian economics -- but is rebounding this year. Even during the cargo drop, however, passenger traffic increased by 6 percent. Y2K problems will hopefully be avoided due to a $25 million investment in equipment and 36 full-time employees who are working to help the Airport avoid Y2K disruptions.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 21, 1999
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 3; Metro Desk
BYLINE: Jasmine Lee
DATELINE: Los Angeles, California
The Los Angeles Times reports that Los Angeles, California's City Council will be considering a proposal to improve their 28 year-old noise ordinance by hiring an expert at a cost of $105,600.
The article reports that Los Angeles, California's City Council will be considering a proposal to improve their noise ordinance by hiring an expert. The original ordinance was drafted 28 years ago, and the consultant's task will be to fix outdated and inconsistent sections of the ordinance.
The article goes on to note that the consultant would begin in October if the $105,600 price tag is approved tonight.
PUBLICATION: The Providence Journal-Bulletin
DATE: September 21, 1999
SECTION: News, Pg. 1C
BYLINE: Richard C. Dujardin
DATELINE: East Providence, Rhode Island
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Kenneth Schneider, co-president of East Providence Coalition
The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a wood recycling business in East Providence, Rhode Island may be shut down because the owner has ignored Zoning Board requirements. The business recycles building debris into wood chips, and neighbors have complained about noise and dust from wood-grinding equipment and trucks that unload to early in the morning and too late at night. The Zoning Board told the business to enclose the grinding machine, but the business has failed to do that and may lose its right to operate.
The article reports that a wood recycling business in East Providence, Rhode Island may be shut down tomorrow night because the owner has ignored a Zoning Board requirement to enclose a noisy 40-foot-long wood-chipper. The business grinds wood from building debris into chips or mulch, and the zoning board had said he must enclose the grinder; he had requested the right to construct an unwalled structure, claiming that indoors operation of the chipper would be a fire hazard, but has not constructed a building of any kind: with or without walls.
The article goes on, noting that neighbors are disturbed by noise and dust from the business. Besides the wood chipper, trucks unload wood debris as early as 6 AM and as late as 9 PM, well beyond the 8-4 hours of operation stipulated by the zoning board. The owner has denied these allegations, but neighbors say they have videotaped proof. Also, a promised earthen berm, complete with evergreen trees, has been replaced with mounds of wood chips which disperses dust around the neighborhood.
The article concludes by noting that the East Providence Coalition, a neighborhood organization of 200 families, has hired a lawyer to argue the case against the business. In addition to the broken promises, the Department of Environmental Management has become concerned that wood debris may be coming from out-of-state and may exceed daily 150-ton limits.
PUBLICATION: Star Tribune
DATE: September 21, 1999
SECTION: News; Pg. 1B
BYLINE: Dan Wascoe Jr.
DATELINE: Richfield, Minnesota
The Star Tribune reports that the sale of a home in Richfield, Minnesota went through today after the reversal of a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Originally, mortgage insurance was denied to the buyers since the house's proximity to a Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport runway made it likely that the "mortgage would outlast the house." A call from the local congressman, who was contacted by the sellers and by city officials, prompted the reversal of the decision. Some officials are worried about the implications of the original denial on future real estate deals, while others are not and say that the reversal will be the precedent.
The article reports that the sale of a $125,000 home in Richfield, Minnesota went through today after the reversal of a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) decision. Originally, mortgage insurance was denied to the buyers since the house's proximity to a Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport runway made it likely that the "mortgage would outlast the house." A local congressman was prompted to call the HUD after he received calls and letters from the home sellers and from Richfield officials. The HUD agreed to reverse their decision if the buyers signed a "runway clear zone" form that acknowledges the higher risk of accidents in such a zone and the likelihood that the property may be purchased in the future by the airport.
The article goes on, noting that Richfield's city manager is worried that the HUD's original decision may set a precedent that could complicate the sales of other homes in the area. Other officials weren't surprised by the turnaround, noting that "when a congressman calls, everybody... stands up straight," and saying that the reversal will assure no similar problems in the future. Two state committees are evaluating the areas around the Airport, to determine if noise contours set by the Legislature accurately represent noise impacts on different areas. While a real estate agent recognized that it is standard procedure to deny mortgage insurance in a "runway clear zone," he also says that the term runway clear zone is not defined well.
PUBLICATION: The Virginian-Pilot
DATE: September 21, 1999
SECTION: Local, Pg. B8
BYLINE: Jim Anderson, Randy Sterling
DATELINE: Shadowlawn, Virginia
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Jim Anderson, Randy Sterling: Shadowlawn Civic League
The Virginian-Pilot prints several letters to the editor, one of which relates to noise in Virginia's Shadowlawn community from Oceana Naval Base aircraft. The author notes that after meeting with a commanding officer at the base, during which the Shadowlawn Civic League asked for a standard flight pattern to be used on a particular runway, noise has been significantly reduced. He supports the base while striving to reduce noise, and commends the officer and the base for their cooperative spirit.
"OCEANA NOISE
Runway pattern offers
the sound of compromise
Regarding the noise from NAS Oceana jets:
The Shadowlawn Civic League does not endorse the views of either the "maybe-our-persistent-whining-will-drown-out-the- noise' ' crowd or the "sound-of-freedom-they-were-here-first" crowd.
Instead, the league strongly supports NAS Oceana while continuing to seek reasonable ways to minimize the noise impact on our community.
We recently met with Capt. Skip Zoebel, the commanding officer of NAS Oceana. In addition to discussing the general noise situation, we asked that jets using Runway 23L, which has the greatest impact on Shadowlawn residents, fly the prescribed standard pattern. This causes no adverse impact on Oceana flight operations yet keeps planes a half-mile to the west of our neighborhood.
To Capt. Zoebel's credit, our situation has substantially improved in recent weeks. We applaud the efforts of all concerned.
Jim Anderson
Randy Sterling
Shadowlawn Civic League"
PUBLICATION: AAP Newsfeed
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: Nationwide General News; Federal Parliament
DATELINE: Canberra, Australia
AAP Newsfeed reports that an Australian legislator has proposed an independent "aviation noise ombudsman" as an alternative to the current system that sends complaints to biased airline officials.
The article reports that a representative in the Australian government has proposed an independent "aviation noise ombudsman" to hear complaints about noise, violations of curfews, flight paths and fuel dumping. The current system means that complaints go to biased airline officials of the very company which is making the violations. The bill was modeled on similar U.S. legislation.
PUBLICATION: Aviation Week and Space Technology
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: Air Transport; Vol. 151, No. 12; Pg. 45
BYLINE: Paul Mann
DATELINE: Washington D.C.
Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that the US and the European Union (EU) are closer to an agreement that would resolve tension over proposed airport noise regulations in Europe. The regulations would forbid noisier Stage 2 aircraft from being used, which the US says would unfairly hurt the resale market for their aircraft. The EU may agree to withdraw or modify the regulations if the US commits in writing to a definitive timeline for development of the next phase of noise standards: Stage 4. The US is already working with the European Commission to outline principles and "an appropriate level of economic protection for the existing Stage 3 fleet," although the EU wants more assurances that the US will remain committed.
The article reports that the US and the European Union (EU) are closer to an agreement that would resolve recent tension over proposed airport noise regulations in Europe. The proposed regulations would forbid some noisier Stage 2 aircraft from being used in the near future, and the US says that would unfairly hurt the U.S. by compromising the resale market for those aircraft. The EU is holding off on implementation of the regulations, and is considering the modification of those regulations in exchange for US commitment to the development of newer Stage 4 noise standards to be accepted internationally.
The article notes that the international body that would set the standard is the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The EU believes that the US has been stalling the new stage 4 standards for years, and wants the US to agree to a timeline for development of those standards. The US is already working with the European Commission (one of two governing bodies of the EU, the other being the Parliament) to outline principles that the standards should follow and "an appropriate level of economic protection for the existing Stage 3 fleet" that would presumably avoid disagreements such as the current one over the Stage 2 fleet. The EU still worries about US commitment, and wants a written commitment that the US will work towards the production of the standards in a reasonable amount of time.
The article goes on to say that American officials wish to honor the autonomy of the EU as a law-making body, but still feels the need to object because the law seems to enforce economic discrimination. Officials seem willing to consider a written commitment to the Stage 4 proposal process, but say that those standards could cover a range of different things; simple operational changes such as night noise levels would be less complex then new engine designs. Europe emphasizes that engine or other standards need not be set, but a definitive timeline for the development process does.
PUBLICATION: Bristol Evening Post
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: News, Pg.12
DATELINE: South Gloucestershire, UK
The Bristol Evening Post reports that the Environment Department of South Gloucestershire, UK's Council plans to hire more staff to handle noise complaints during peak hours. Noise causes half of all complaints for the department. Complaints peak between 11 pm and midnight during the week, and from 10 am to midday and 8 pm to 2 am on the weekend. The staff will cost 106,000 pounds, and should be active by next year.
The article reports that the Environment Department of South Gloucestershire, UK's Council plans to hire more staff to handle noise and nuisance complaints during peak hours. Currently, more than half of the complaints received by the department are due to noise. The Department will spend 106,000 pounds to hire staff for the team, which should be active by next year.
The article goes on, noting that peak times were 11 pm to midnight during the week, and 10 am to midday and 8 pm to 2 am on the weekend. Currently, noise complaints are handled by installing tamper-proof sound monitors in the house of the complainer; these have shown that many complaints exaggerated the sound levels greatly.
PUBLICATION: Business Times
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: Shipping Times; Pg. 16
DATELINE: Brussels, Belgium
The Business Times reports that the US is urging the European Union (EU) to reconsider noise laws that would ban additional Stage 2 aircraft from operating in Europe. The US says that the laws discriminate against older US Stage 2 planes with hush-kits which meet noise standards. The EU has already postponed implementation of the law. Now the US wants withdrawal of the legislation, and the EU seems willing to consider it if the US makes commitments to developing new Stage 4 international noise standards in the near future; talks on the new standards are currently at a stand still.
The article reports that the US is urging the European Union (EU) to reconsider noise laws that would ban additional Stage 2 aircraft from operating in Europe. The US maintains that the laws discriminate against US companies who have outfitted their older Stage 2 planes with hush-kits, reducing the noise to international norms. Companies in the US have already lost $2.1 billion in lost resale value of Stage 2 jets and lost sales of hush-kits.
The article notes that the EU has already delayed implementation of the law -- originally scheduled to take effect in May 2000 -- by a year. The US says that a postponement is not enough. Now they want revocation of the law; if it is not, the US has promised to consider a ban on Concorde flights and additional action through the World Trade Organization. The law is intended to reduce noise pollution around European cities which are far more densely populated than most in the U.S.
The article concludes by saying that the EU introduced the legislation after "talks on international standards under the auspices of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) ground to a halt." One major option at this point is the modification of the regulations in exchange for US commitment to reaching a rapid agreement on those new standards in ICAO.
PUBLICATION: The Hindu
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: News
DATELINE: Madras, India
The Hindu reports that amplified sound from electioneering and religious festivals in Madras, India is getting worse., and the "touchiness" of religion in India means that police are often slow to act. Cars with altered mufflers or loud horns also cause disruption. Laws that exist include rules against cone speakers, and maximum noise levels in different zones.
The article reports that amplified sound from electioneering and religious festivals in Madras, India is getting worse. The touchiness of religion in India means that police are often slow to act. Schoolchildren and residents find it very disruptive, and are upset at the apparent priority that more wealthy areas around tourist hotels get more enforcement. The article notes that musical events have become more popular at roadside temples in past years, which has worsened the problem.
The article points out that cars also cause noise problems. Taxis alter their mufflers because it is rumored that gas mileage is improved that way. Also, vehicles with airhorns and musical horns use them at will, even in restricted areas near hospitals.
The article notes that police could enforce any of several laws that exist, including the fact that cone loud speakers are illegal and box speakers are legal only after permitted by police. Commercial areas have a permissible noise level of 65 decibels -- 55 at night. In residential areas, the limit is 55 decibels -- 45 at night.
PUBLICATION: Daily News
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: Suburban; Pg. 1
BYLINE: by Donald Bertrand
DATELINE: New York City
The Daily News reports on a town meeting being held tonight in the Juniper Park neighborhood to address resident concerns over noise from the Long Island Expressway. A state Department of Transportation Official will be on hand to answer questions about the road's rehabilitation.
The article reports on several community issues across New York City, including a town meeting being held tonight in the Juniper Park neighborhood. The meeting will serve as an opportunity for residents to question a state Department of Transportation (DOT) official. Residents want to know how the road will be 'rehabilitated'.
The article concludes, noting that residents are particularly concerned with noise from the roadway. A new concrete roadbed has made the noise from the road "unbearable."
PUBLICATION: Design News
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: Product News; Plastics, Metals & Other Materials; Pg. 215
BYLINE: Karen Auguston Field
DATELINE: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Design News reports that the Minneapolis, Minnesota company Prospec has introduced a new composite that is designed to reduce noise. The alternating layers of sound-absorbing foam and sound-containing vinyl could be placed in machinery housings to reduce noise.
The article reports that the Minneapolis, Minnesota company Prospec has introduced a new composite that is designed to reduce noise. The composite is made up of alternating layers of foam and vinyl.
The article notes that the composite works in two ways: foam absorbs noise, and the vinyl barriers contain it. The composite could find industrial uses in machinery housings.
PUBLICATION: The Independent
DATE: September 20, 1999
DATELINE: Dhaka City, Bangladesh
The Independent reports that a study on the presence of noise pollution in Dhaka City, Bangladesh revealed that many parts of the city have high levels of noise. Noise in the city exceeded World Health Organization recommendations in many places. Factors that contribute to the problem include densely packed structures, construction, loudspeakers, and lack of green spaces to absorb sound waves. Ailments such as tinnitus, vestibular symptoms, irritability, blood pressure and stress may result from continued exposure to noise above 65 decibels; exposure to noise higher than 80 decibels can permanently damage hearing.
The article reports that a study on the presence of noise pollution in Dhaka City, Bangladesh revealed that many parts of the city have high levels of noise. The World Health Organization says that decibel levels over 65 decibels may cause ailments such as tinnitus, vestibular symptoms, irritability, blood pressure and stress. Continuous exposure to levels above 80 decibels may cause permanent hearing loss in addition to the previously mentioned ailments.
The article notes that the study found several areas in the city that reached above 100 decibels, and many areas that exceeded 70 decibels. The study cites several factors that worsen the problem of noise: densely packed structures, construction, loudspeakers, and lack of green spaces to absorb sound waves. The article also notes that most residents are not aware of the risks associated with noise exposure, although the study should help increase awareness. COUNTRY: BANGLADESH
PUBLICATION: The Fort Worth Star-Telegram
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: News; Pg. 1
BYLINE: G. Chambers Williams III
DATELINE: Fort Worth, Texas
The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Airports across the country, including Dallas/Fort Worth Airport (D/FW), are preparing to meet the January 1st deadline for new federally-mandated noise standards. The standards require the phasing out of all heavy "Stage 2" aircraft; Stage 2 aircraft with "hushkits" are quiet enough to be allowed under the standards. The airlines have known of the standards for 8 years, and 93 percent of the planes at D/FW meet the standards already. Some residents have noticed the difference, and some are still disrupted. The article also notes that D/FW has imposed their noise on fewer people as years have gone by even though traffic has increased, using several methods.
The article notes that Airports across the country, including Dallas/Fort Worth Airport (D/FW), are preparing to meet the January 1st deadline for new federally-mandated noise standards set in 1991. The standards require the phasing out of all aircraft over 75,000 pounds that operate at the Stage 2 noise level; Stage 2 aircraft with "hushkits"-- the kit costs $1-3 million to buy and install -- are quiet enough to be allowed under the standards. Airlines are modifying their fleets right on schedule, and 93 percent of the planes at D/FW meet the standards already.
The article notes that some residents have noticed that the airplanes are quieter already. One resident says "I used to complain more than 200 times a year about noisy planes over my house, but I'm down to about 60 calls now." Others are still being disrupted, and one air-traffic control official who lives near the airport says that planes are flying over her even though designated flight paths forbid it; pilots often cut corners in this way.
The article notes that new, quieter Stage 3 aircraft are five times quieter than a comparable Stage 2 jet without a hush-kit. FAA noise contours, which show areas that are exposed to over 65 decibels of noise averaged over each day, have moved more than 5 miles closer to the airport in the last 25 years. The data to establish the contours was gathered with a $4.5 million noise-monitoring system three years ago. Complaints are also down; over 1,200 fewer complaints were registered in 1998 as compared to 1996. In 1975, 250 million passengers flew and 7.5 million people lived in areas subjected to more than 65 decibels daily. Next year, more than 600 million people will fly, and about 600,000 people will experience noise over 65 decibels each day. NASA hopes to create additional improvements that could cut noise by an additional 10 decibels in the next ten years.
PUBLICATION: Rubber & Plastics News
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: News; Pg. 60
BYLINE: Miles Moore
DATELINE: West Lafayette, Indiana
Rubber & Plastics News reports that Purdue University in West LaFayette, Indiana has created the Institute of Safe, Quiet and Durable Highways. Tires have been studied at the University for years, and researchers already believe road noise to result from several distinct factors that warrant further study. The institute will have a $7 million budget for its first five years. There are opposing views at the new institute regarding the usefulness of "rubber-modified" asphalt, and it remains to be seen whether much research will be done in that area.
The article reports that Purdue University in West LaFayette, Indiana has created the Institute of Safe, Quiet and Durable Highways. Research at the institute will focus on noise resulting from the interaction of tires and road surface, and how to prevent it. Tires have been studied at the University for years, and researchers already believe road noise to result from several factors: compressed air forced from between tire and road, "block-like" tread shapes that slap noisily on pavement, and vibration of those blocks and and the belts beneath. Regarding the latter phenomenon, researchers are looking further into the observation that only certain of the vibrations radiate sound and those sound-producing vibrations may be a small percentage of the overall vibrations.
The article notes that the institute will have a $7 million budget for its first five years. Over half of that money will come from a U.S. Department of Transportation grant.
The article concludes by noting the mixed feelings that come from the issue of "rubber-modified" asphalt. The product -- which is supposed to reduce noise -- is used extensively in Europe, and the U.S. Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1993 required its use for those seeking federal funding. Officials from the Asphalt Paving Association and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation have had bad experiences with the product, although a representative of the industry says that it "is far different from what it used to be."
PUBLICATION: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DATE: September 20, 1999
SECTION: St. Charles County Post, Pg. 8
BYLINE: John Sonderegger
DATELINE: St. Charles, Missouri
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch prints a column that mentions a long list of politicians in the St. Louis area who are either championing the fight against aircraft noise pollution, or are ignoring it. The issue of noise is getting attention because of a proposed $2.6 billion expansion at Lambert Field.
The column mentions a long list of politicians in the St. Louis area who are either championing the fight against aircraft noise pollution, or are ignoring it. The author begins by detailing a 5:55 am 'wake-up call' for the community of St. Charles, caused by a flight from nearby Lambert Field. The issue of noise is getting attention in the area because of a proposed $2.6 billion expansion at Lambert Field, and a town meeting will be held this week. The author asserts that quality of life will be affected, and the local University may need to be soundproofed.
The author begins picking on local politicians and power figures by ridiculing "Uncle Leonard," who was never identified but seemed to be someone in control of the Airport. He ridiculed a long list of politicians who claim there is no noise problem: U.S. Rep. Dick Gephardt, Dick Fleming of the Regional Commerce and Growth Association, Keith Hazelwood and Carl Bearden, St. Charles civic leaders Ray Harmon and Dennis Spellmann, and congressional hopeful Gene McNary. The last man listed was quoted as saying "You can study these things to death. There's a time to get on with it. In the interest of the entire metropolitan region, we have reached that time." The author ridicules this statement, saying that an important study that will determine whether the expansion "will even work" is yet to be completed.
Then, the author praises a few politicians who have fought against more airport noise: Bridgeton Mayor Conrad Bowers, Joe Ortwerth, Steve Ehlmann, Rory Riddler, Bob Moeller, Don Kissell, Rich Chrismer and Chuck Gross.
PUBLICATION: Asbury Park Press
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: J, Pg. 5, Millennium 2000 Countdown
BYLINE: Joseph Picard
DATELINE: Newark, New Jersey
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Pamela Barsam-Brown, executive director of the New Jersey Coalition Against Aircraft Noise
The Asbury Park Press reports that after years of shifting flight paths from one disturbed community to another, the New York/New Jersey Port Authority may computer-test ocean routes. Parties involved are now considering the computer-modeling of ocean routes that would largely limit noise from climbing aircraft to areas over the ocean. Since the 1978 deregulation of the airline industry, increasing traffic and noise have caused the FAA to try -- unsuccessfully -- to mitigate noise by shifting flight paths. New Jersey Coalition Against Aircraft Noise's ocean route proposal may offer a better solution.
The article reports that after years of shifting flight paths from one disturbed community to another, the New York/New Jersey Port Authority may computer-test ocean routes. The routes are designed to keep noise away from most communities, and the FAA -- which had labeled the routes as too dangerous -- is now at least considering them as an option at New York City Area Airports which include Newark Airport, JFK, and LaGuardia.
The article begins by discussing the deregulation of the airline industry in 1978, a move which increased competition, traffic, and noise. Since 1970's 6.4 million passengers flew out of Newark, the number has increased to 9.2 million in 1980, 22.5 million in 1988, and 32.4 million in 1998. Flights have increased to 456,000 from half that in 1970. In 1987, the FAA responded to increased traffic at all three area airports by instituting a new airspace plan called the Expanded East Coast Plan without the required environmental studies or local input; the plan fanned flight paths over previously undisturbed communities instead of using a single pattern as was done before.
The article also mentions that the port authority monitored aircraft noise in 10 locations in 1988, and determined that the noise was loud enough to interrupt sleep. After trying to shift flight paths, communities became even more upset -- even the ones that 'benefited' from a given shift -- about the disturbances. The New Jersey Coalition Against Aircraft Noise (NJCAAN) was formed in 1990 by many of these communities. NJCAAN gained the support of a New Jersey Senator who pushed the FAA, through legislation that withheld salary increases, to perform the environmental study that should have been done in 1987. The results of the study claimed that noise impacts on New jersey had declined.
The article notes that in 1993 NJCAAN proposed a plan to route Newark departures over the ocean, allowing them to reach higher altitudes before they turned West over residential areas. The FAA said the plan was unsafe, offering the Solberg Mitigation Plan as an alternative. The alternative was just another shift of patterns which helped some communities while hurting others. In 1998, the Governor responded to pressure from NJCAAN and authorized a study of aircraft noise by the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). The study recommended that ocean routing be seriously considered. The port authority and major carriers at the Airports have opposed live testing of the routing, but a computer-modeling option seems to be gaining support. Airlines claim that the routing would cause more delays, but NJCAAN says the airlines are just worried about a possible $1 increase in ticket prices. The FAA is scheduled to complete another air space redesign in the area by 2003.
PUBLICATION: Chapel Hill Herald
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Front; Pg. 1;
BYLINE: Ray Gronberg
DATELINE: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The Chapel Hill Herald reports that a member of the Chapel Hill, North Carolina Town Council reversed her vote on the issue of whether to allow golf course fans -- used for 'agricultural purposes" -- to remain exempt from the community's 60-decibel noise limit. Although quieter fans have been installed since, other council members say that the exemption should still be removed. The councilwoman who reversed her vote said that since a consultant has been hired to make alterations to the existing ordinance -- which may include a 5 decibel reduction in the noise limit -- "tinkering" in the meantime will be a wasted effort.
The article reports that a member of the Chapel Hill, North Carolina Town Council reversed her vote on the issue of whether to allow golf course fans -- used for 'agricultural purposes" -- to remain exempt from the community's 60-decibel noise limit. The councilwoman visited the golf course and said that quieter fans now in place meet the limit. Others on the council said that even though the immediate problem was solved, such devices should still be removed from the exemption list. The councilwoman insisted that since a consultant will shortly be hired to help overhaul their outdated noise ordinance, "tinkering" now will serve no purpose. The golf course was allowed to use the fans only because "they call the fan a piece of lawn equipment."
The article notes that the overhaul of the noise ordinance may include such proposed changes as lowering the noise limits by 5 decibels, and the targeting of "long-duration noises from heating and cooling and mechanical systems." Community businesses and the local university will be warned that noise limits may be tightened in the future so that buildings built in the meantime can take that into consideration.
PUBLICATION: The Independent
DATE: September 19, 1999
DATELINE: Dhaka, Bangladesh
The Independent reports that noise research, gathered in Dhaka, Bangladesh and presented there yesterday, discussed the dangers of excessive noise in the city and some possible solutions. Noise in the city ranges from 68 to 106.2 decibels, although the World Health Organization has said that 65 decibels is the highest acceptable level. The article notes that attendees of the seminar included several government leaders.
The article reports that noise research, gathered in Dhaka, Bangladesh and presented there yesterday, discussed the dangers of excessive noise in the city and some possible solutions. Noise in the city ranges from 68 to 106.2 decibels, although the World Health Organization has said that 65 decibels is the highest acceptable level. Exposure to noise can cause "auditory fatigue, loss of hearing, tinnitus, vestibular symptoms, interference with speech, irritation, impatience and short temper, distraction and lowered work productivity. Noise pollution also increases blood pressure, pulse rate, respiration rate, mental stress and sleeplessness, rate of miscarriage and low birth weight."
The article notes that attendees of the seminar included several government leaders. The seminar said common sources of noise in Dhaka include "automobiles (auto-rickshaw, tempo and buses), bus terminals," pressure horns, factories, rail stations and airports, band music, walkmen, loud speakers, domestic appliances and electric generators. Proposed solutions include public awareness campaigns, better city zoning and control of traffic noise, free hearing tests and hearing protection. Official attention has not fallen on noise pollution as a problem, although the Environment Secretary who was present at the seminar said that the Department of the Environment was already pursuing some of the measures that were recommended.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Part A; Page 1; Metro Desk
BYLINE: Bettina Boxall
DATELINE: Grand Canyon National Park
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Local Sierra Club activist Sharon Galbreath, Tom Martin of the Grand Canyon Private Boaters Assn, Liz Boussard, field specialist for the Wilderness Society
The Los Angeles Times reports that operators of motorized raft tours on the Grand Canyon's Colorado River are at odds with environmentalists and private boaters who want a quieter, less congested river. Tour operators say that they allow older, less fit people, or people with little time to spare, to see the Grand Canyon. Environmentalists and private boaters say the noise ruins the natural quiet of the park, and waiting lists skewed in favor of companies relegate private boaters to a twenty-year waiting list. A motor ban on the river was killed twenty years ago, but a new management plan will raise the question again.
The article reports that operators of motorized raft tours on the Grand Canyon's Colorado River are at odds with environmentalists and private boaters who want a quieter, less congested river. Tour operators -- 16 companies make up the $25 million per year Canyon rafting industry -- say that they allow older, less fit people, or people with little time to spare, to see the Grand Canyon. Environmentalists and private boaters say the noise ruins the natural quiet of the park. In addition, a waiting list heavily weighted towards commercial companies, which dates from the days before private demand jumped dramatically, place frustrated private boaters on a 6,000 name, twenty-year waiting list.
The article notes that motorized tours last eight days at $215 per person per day, when an unmotorized tour of the same 200 miles would require 14 days and much more money. Environmentalists have argued for a motor ban for years, claiming that the wilderness designation of the park requires the elimination of motors, but Congress has never responded positively. Twenty years go, a motor ban was squelched, but the park administration is currently writing a management plan that may raise the issue again.
The article notes that 22,000 people boat through the Canyon each year, as opposed to only 53 in 1954. Over 80% of the 22,000 travel with commercial companies; most, but not all, of the commercial companies rely on motors. The tour operators bring provisions -- and even portable toilets -- on the trip. Environmentalists say that the tour operators would still do well without motors. Although some customers couldn't spare the extra time involved, others would quickly replace them; as one environmentalist said, "...you could sell anything you wanted to at the Grand Canyon." The demand seems to agree with this observation, since tour companies can sell out their annual trips in ten days.
The article notes that noise from the raft engines, air tours and tour buses that serve the 5 million annual visitors threaten the natural quiet of the park. About half of the people who take boat tours now ride a helicopter in from a nearby location. Tour operators have switched voluntarily to quieter engines, and some are considering electric motors. Environmentalists say that even quieter motors cause the same problem.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 17; Zones Desk
BYLINE: Howard L. Berman
DATELINE: Burbank, California
The Los Angeles Times prints a column written by a U.S Representative in the San Fernando Valley who claims that Burbank's Airport Authority and the city of Burbank have cut a deal that blatantly ignores the impacts of noise on residents South and West of the airport. A new terminal is needed at the airport, and a ban on eastern departures from the east-west runway was suggested as a condition for the city's approval of the terminal. This ban will reduce noise over eastern communities while burdening others who have continually suffered since the FAA ruled that the old terminal is positioned in such a way to make eastern departures unsafe. He debunks the claim that the 6,032 foot runway is too short for commercial flights, pointing out that Orange County's John Wayne Airport handles commercial flights while being 300 feet shorter.
The column is written by a U.S Representative in the San Fernando Valley who claims that Burbank's Airport Authority and the city of Burbank have cut a deal that blatantly ignores the impacts of noise on residents South and West of the airport. A new terminal is needed at the airport, and a ban on eastern departures from the east-west runway was suggested as a condition for the city's approval of the terminal. The author claims that this was a purely political move to satisfy residents of Burbank and Glendale. He suggests that residents South and West of the airport have received the brunt of jet noise since the FAA ruled that the old terminal is positioned in such a way to make eastern departures unsafe, and that a permanent ban on eastern departures would unfairly distribute the noise.
The author goes on to say that "a reasonable plan to share the noise --in addition to an enforceable curfew and a cap on the number of flights--must be part of any agreement on the airport." He acknowledges that eastern departures should only happen when weather conditions are safe, but says it is unacceptable for all flights -- the numbers of which will likely increase after the new terminal is built -- to be banned from departing to the east.
The writer notes that while the Airport Authority previously claimed that only the FAA could change departure patterns, this change has proved that they have simply been unwilling to act. He debunks the claim that the 6,032 foot runway is too short for commercial flights, pointing out that Orange County's John Wayne Airport handles commercial flights while being 300 feet shorter. He urges the FAA to reject the ban.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 16; Zones Desk
DATELINE: Burbank, California
The Los Angeles Times reports that although Burbank and Glendale may have been politically motivated when they suggested a ban on eastern takeoffs at Burbank Airport, safety would dictate that most flights would avoid eastern takeoffs anyway. Eastern takeoffs are dangerous because the runway is shorter than the other runways, tilts uphill, requires aircraft to climb rapidly, and passes through air space used by Los Angeles International Airport: among the busiest in the world. The article suggests that Congressmen who recently opposed the ban, claiming that it distributed noise unfairly, should acknowledge the agreements positive aspects such as construction of a new terminal at safe distance from runways, phasing out noisy jets, and closing the terminal at night to reduce night-noise from aircraft.
The article reports that although Burbank and Glendale may have been politically motivated when they suggested a ban on eastern takeoffs at Burbank Airport, safety will also be served by the ban. In fact, the author suggests that even if the ban were rejected, safety concerns would mean that most airlines would try to avoid Eastern takeoffs. The writer is responding to recent insistence from U.S. Representatives to reject the ban.
The article continues, noting that the ban on eastern takeoffs is part of an agreement between the Airport Authority and the City of Burbank to build a new terminal at a safe distance from all runways; the FAA had forbidden eastern departures since 1986 because the old terminal is too close to the runway. The East-West runway, which is shorter than the other runways, tilts uphill, and requires rapid climbing by eastbound aircraft to clear the looming mountains is less safe. Also, prevailing winds from the west make western takeoffs preferable, since oncoming winds add lift at takeoff time. Finally, eastern takeoffs pass through air space used by Los Angeles International Airport, which is among the busiest air space in the world.
The article concludes, noting that the agreement should not be rejected because of the ban on eastern takeoffs. It includes other aspects such as construction of a new terminal at safe distance from runways, phasing out noisy jets, and closing the terminal at night to reduce night-noise from aircraft. Also, the new terminal will have 14 gates, which is no more gates than the old one.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 6; Editorial Writers Desk
DATELINE: Orange County, California
The Los Angeles Times reports on the events of the summer that have surrounded a proposal to establish a commercial airport at the former El Toro Marines base in Orange County, California. The definition of community to be affected by the outcome is defined as the County populace instead of the commmunities immediately surrounding the base; this places distant communities in control of airport approval. After months of debate, the Board of Supervisors decided to vote on the proposal in May after the planning process is further along. Shortly after, a citizen petition qualified a ballot initiative that would require a two-thirds approval for expansion of airports. The initiative will be voted on in March, and so the Supervisors' vote may end up being subject to citizen approval.
The article reports on the events of the summer that have surrounded a proposal to establish a commercial airport at the former El Toro Marines base in Orange County, California. The article notes that the definition of "the community" which would be affected by the new airport is important. A 1994 ballot initiative defined the community as the County populace instead of the commmunities immediately surrounding the base. Because of this definition, more-distant communities -- who hold a majority on the five member Board of Supervisors -- have control of whether to approve the airport.
The article notes that increased air capacity and a stimulated economy would likely result from the airport, but this benefit to the larger community would come at the expense of a "mostly unwilling surrounding population." The question remains, is that trade-off justifiable? The FAA has said it will conduct its own evaluation of the proposal in an unexpected turn of events.
The article notes that the proposal originally seemed to be a foregone conclusion, and the uproar it has caused was not expected. Test flights conducted in June were at the center of a raging debate, and raised questions from citizens, school superintendents, and others. Recently, after the Board of Supervisors decided to vote on the proposal in May after the planning process is further along, a petition qualified a ballot initiative that would require a two-thirds approval for expansion of airports. The initiative will be voted on in March, and so the Supervisors' vote may end up being subject to citizen approval.
PUBLICATION: The Morning Call
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Comment, Pg. A28
BYLINE: Bonnie L. Winch
DATELINE: Northampton, Pennsylvania
The Morning Call prints a letter to the editor which asks Northampton, Pennsylvania residents to stop complaining about noise and other nuisances from local industry. She asserts that such complaints recently put a factory out of business, costing many community jobs.
"To the Editor:
This letter is in response to a Sept. 3 article about a family in Northampton who complained to Borough Council about the noise at the Northampton Generating Co. It seems to me that whatever the borough does, it will never please some people. Some people weren't happy until the Ponderosa Fibres was closed after complaints about the smell and noise. Now they have found yet another complaint to put poor working people's jobs in jeopardy.
Through the years we have survived the cement dust and the noise from the railroads. Caring people realize that you have to get used to some things so other people can survive. Somewhere along the line, we have become a 'Hurray for me, the hell with you' generation. It seems to me that if these uncaring people do not like the neighborhood then they should move out, because they will never be satisfied. Once they get their way, they will just move on to the next industry, until there are no jobs in the area."
PUBLICATION: The Providence Journal-Bulletin
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Local & Regional News, Pg. 4B
BYLINE: Mary B. Lhowe
DATELINE: Providence, Rhode Island
The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that during a two-week paving job of the main runway at Providence, Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport, aircraft will be using a shorter secondary runway. Some communities may experience increased noise. Also, airlines have sold fewer tickets to lighten their load and allow the use of the shorter runway.
The article reports that during a two-week paving job at Providence, Rhode Island's T.F. Green Airport, aircraft will be using a secondary runway. Work on the 7,200-foot main runway will mean that all planes will use the secondary, 6,100-foot runway.
The article notes that the redirection may increase noise over communities that don't traditionally experience much noise. It has also caused airlines to sell fewer tickets on longer, and therefore heavier, flights so it can reduce their weight and thus use the shorter runway. A similar repaving period will take place next year for the repair of taxiways.
PUBLICATION: San Antonio Express-News
DATE: September 19, 1999
SECTION: Editorial; Pg. 2G
DATELINE: San Antonio, Texas
The San Antonio Express-News prints an editorial that criticizes noise abatement efforts at Texas' San Antonio International Airport. The article notes that two recent public hearings and noise studies have promised no relief for residents. While acknowledging that soundproofing is not practical for every affected home, the editorial pushes for a dialogue between all impacted parties.
The editorial criticizes noise abatement efforts at Texas' San Antonio International Airport. The article says that two recent public forums have mentioned soundproofing in non-residential buildings, but have not addressed resident concerns. "Costly noise compatibility studies" have yielded no answers.
The article acknowledges that soundproofing is not practical for all affected homeowners, but says that the airport could be trying to adjust flight patterns and runway usage. It notes that stricter federal noise guidelines will take effect next year, and encourages the city government to start a serious dialogue between the community and the Airport to establish noise abatement measures before then.
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