TagLegislation(135)

This 2019 Washington State draft legislation proposes amending RCW 53.54.030 to allow port districts to repair, replace, or upgrade previously installed noise abatement soundproofing structures in areas impacted by aircraft noise. Under existing law, individual properties generally cannot receive benefits from the same remedial program more than once, but this bill creates an exception for properties where soundproofing installations have deteriorated and need maintenance or improvement. The bill also preserves existing port commission tools such as property acquisition, transaction assistance, mortgage insurance, and land management programs for noise-impacted communities near airports like Sea-Tac.

RCW 36.70A.200 requires counties and cities planning under Washington's Growth Management Act to include a process in their comprehensive plans for identifying and siting 'essential public facilities' — those typically difficult to site, such as airports, state education facilities, regional transportation facilities, correctional facilities, solid waste handling facilities, and inpatient care facilities. No local comprehensive plan or development regulation may outright prohibit the siting of these essential public facilities. The Office of Financial Management maintains a list of essential state public facilities likely to be built within the next six years.

This legislative summary outlines a proposed bill aimed at protecting communities affected by airport noise and aviation emissions. It establishes a formal designation for 'aviation-impacted communities' located within one mile of low-flying commercial or cargo jet routes, creates local community boards to engage with the FAA and airport operators, and requires the FAA to develop action plans and provide mitigation funding — such as sound insulation and noise barriers — for affected residences, schools, hospitals, and nursing homes.

On February 15, 2019, the Washington State Department of Commerce held a pre-proposal conference for a study examining the current and ongoing effects of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport's operations on surrounding communities, as directed by Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6032. The conference outlined the project's objectives, scope of work, timeline, and proposal requirements for prospective contractors. The study was part of a broader state effort to understand how airport operations impact local neighborhoods, housing, and community well-being.

The Washington State Aviation Planning Council's 2009 Long-Term Air Transportation Study (LATS) presents recommendations to Governor Gregoire on the future of Washington's aviation system, which had shrunk from 141 to 138 public-use airports with at least two more at risk of closing. The study warns that over the next decade, 12 airports will approach or exceed capacity limits, while land use encroachment and limited resources threaten the system's viability. Public outreach showed strong support for investing in advanced technology and safety improvements, and greater efficiency in existing airports rather than building new ones.