Homes around the Tuscon International Airport have been participating in a 17-year program to reduce noise levels caused by airport operations. As of July of this year over 880 homes have been treated and another 230 are scheduled to be completed by the middle of 2010.
The program is a partnership between the Arizona Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Tuscon Airport Authority. It involves installing insulation, windows, and proper air and heating units in homes near the airports. Upgrades to each home cost approximately $25,000 – most of which is paid by the FAA.
The entire process takes about 20 months to complete – including months of applications, paperwork, designing, planning, and permit obtainment. The work on each home takes about 10 days!
Admirably, the Tuscon International Airport has taken measures to reduce neighborhood noise as well. They’ve lobbied for zoning regulations in unpopulated areas, have relocated their main runway, and are taking advantage of aircraft with quieter engines.
Despite the project not being 100% complete, the results of their soundproofing efforts are already apparent. The number of noise complaint calls have reduced significantly!