Greetings Winooski,
On May 29, 2019, the Burlington International Airport released a draft of the 2018/2023 Noise Exposure Map. The Noise Exposure Map documents the airport layout and operation, aircraft related noise exposure and land uses surrounding the airport. This new map anticipates the increased noise exposure for the region after the arrival of F-35 aircraft in the fall. The increased noise exposure includes more than 40% of Winooski’s housing and population.
The Noise Exposure Map is used to drive the distribution of federal funding from the Federal Aviation Administration for a Noise Compatibility Program which may provide sound mitigation to impacted properties. As we seek to create a livable, thriving community with quality affordable housing stock, sound mitigation will be important for our community.
The Noise Exposure Map is currently in draft state with a 30-day public comment period ending on June 28 – next Friday. We believe a strong public comment can have a real impact on how the Noise Compatibility Program is structured and funded. After listening to resident concerns at the public meeting held at the O’Brien Community Center on May 29th, two City Council meetings, and phone calls and emails, Winooski City Council will submit an official public comment on both the map and the noise program. To view this official statement, click here: http://bit.ly/2ZChtSu
We are strongly advocating that the City of Winooski is prioritized for this funding as our community will experience the greatest impact. Specifically, we will be requesting increased and expedited funding focused on retaining our housing stock and protecting areas of high density and the Winooski School District.
Public comments can be submitted via www.btvsound.com/contact or via email: btvsound@jonespayne.com
All comments will be included in the final draft Noise Exposure Map that the airport submits to the FAA for consideration. You can also find more details about the noise map and compatibility program, and request more information from the airport via www.btvsound.com
The City of Winooski will continue to work with the airport, the City of Burlington, the Vermont Air National Guard, and other regional partners to advocate on behalf of our residents as well as keep them informed.
Feel free to reach out directly with questions you have about this process.
- Mayor Kristine Lott, klott@winooskivt.gov