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KCIA embarks on ambitious 'Sound Insulation Program'
<<Sounds of airplane traffic>>
Narrator Says:
We all know the sounds that go hand-in-hand with a busy airport, and some of us know better than others.
Namely hundreds of people living in homes that surround King County International Airport (KCIA).
KCIA also knows the challenges of operating one of the busiest general aviation airports in the nation.
A key reason why it is launching the newest phase of an effort to be a good neighbor and reaching out to residents around the airport to help them keep their homes quieter.
KCIA Special Projects Analyst Penny Wade Says:
One of the primary goals of our Sound Insulation Program besides providing relief to the neighbors inside their homes from the noise of aircraft over their roofs, is that this program is a key element in building a positive relationship with our neighbors, it is not always easy living next door to the activities of a very busy airport.
<<Sounds of airplane traffic.>>
Narrator Says:
It’s no small task.
But the airport has surveyed and sample noise tested more than 200 homes in the nosiest areas surrounding the airport.
Based on the results of those tests, the Federal Aviation Administration has determined that all of them qualify for 'Phase-One' sound insulation retrofitting.
It’s all part of the airport’s ambitious Sound Insulation Program.
The testing was made possible in large part by the $5.6 million KCIA has received from the FAA to conduct noise testing in surrounding homes.
Homes like sandy Trevino's. She moved into her house near the airport about 17 years ago.
The Sound Insulation Program has placed it into the initial phase, meaning it’s one of the top 10 homes in terms of noise level.
She says after the retrofits to her home are complete, she won’t miss the noise a bit.
Sound Insulation Participant Sandy Trevino Says:
It was a brand new house, so, not until really, when you move it, I mean, obviously we're next to an airport, but, I guess you don't think about all the added noise besides the freeway too.
<<Sounds of airplane.>>
Sound Insulation Participant Sandy Trevino Says:
Just loud, you know? You can feel the vibrations too but, it'll be nice, my kids are almost gone so it'll be really quiet (laughter).
Narrator Says:
The 10-home pilot program began in August, and it’s currently in the design and engineering phase and construction will begin as soon as bids are complete.
The bid process for the first 200 homes is also underway.
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