• 2020-09-02

    Airport Improvement Program Noise Mitigation Projects Bill

    A bill introduced in the 116th Congress by Representative Smith of Washington would allow airports to receive additional federal funding under the Airport Improvement Program for noise mitigation projects on buildings that have already received such assistance. The bill would permit the Secretary of Transportation to waive the usual restriction on repeat federal funding if increased aircraft noise, deteriorating soundproofing, or damage caused by prior mitigation work justifies further action. Eligible buildings must fall within the DNL 65 noise standard and be certified by a state-licensed building inspector, making this legislation particularly relevant to communities near high-traffic airports like Seattle-Tacoma International.
  • Poor neighborhood endures worst LAX noise but is left out of home soundproofing program

    By Doug Smith May 31, 2019 | 8:10 PM Inglewood spent millions of dollars in public funds to soundproof middle-class areas of the city while bypassing one of the poorest neighborhoods where the roar from the Los Angeles International Airport flight path is loudest, according to a Times data analysis. Over the last several decades,
  • 1995-01-20

    House Bill 1293: Soundproofing programs in aircraft noise-impacted areas

    Washington House Bill 1293 (1995) amended state law governing how port districts can address aircraft noise impacts on nearby properties, expanding soundproofing programs and removing a prior requirement that property owners waive damages and convey easements in exchange for noise mitigation. The bill declared such damage-waiver agreements void as against public policy, meaning residents near airports like Sea-Tac could receive soundproofing benefits without giving up their legal rights. The act was designated an emergency measure, intended to take effect immediately upon passage.