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Immediate Release |
Contact |
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March 21, 2002 |
Monica Gomez |
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Receives Approval to Expand Sound Insulation Treatment Program San José, CA - Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) has increased the number of homes eligible for the Acoustical Treatment Program (ACT). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the Airport's application to apply $53 million in project funds to be collected from Passenger Facility Charges (PFC) to the ACT Program. The Airport had sought this authorization to extend treatment to up to approximately 1,100 homes in San José's Guadalupe Washington neighborhood, located south of downtown. In September of 2001, the Airport initiated assessments of 300 homes in the Guadalupe Washington area. Construction is expected to begin later this year. "The Washington Community appreciates the response from the Airport for the pending acoustical treatment program. The recent funding approval that will treat hundreds of homes and three schools will go far in the revitalization of our neighborhood," Autumn Gutierrez, President, Washington Area Community Coalition, said. "The Airport strives to be a good neighbor, and the management of sound is a top priority. We have listened to the community's concern regarding noise levels and understand them. In response to this feedback, we are moving forward to increase the number of homes eligible in our ACT Program," Ralph Tonseth, Director of Aviation, said. At an upcoming San José City Council meeting, the Airport will present the updated Noise Exposure Map for approval. With Council approval, the Airport will be able to proceed with a proposal to the FAA to identify additional homes eligible for treatment within the new noise contour. The PFC is collected by the airlines and shown as a departure surcharge
($4.50). The Airport is
required to submit an application to the FAA for use of these funds. The Airport is committed to minimizing the impact of noise on the community. The Airport's goal is to improve the living condition for people who live near the Airport. The Acoustical Treatment Program (ACT) works with property owners to offer sound insulation at no cost. It is considered one of the most highly recognized programs in the country for providing a successful reduction in noise. To date, nearly 1,400 homes have been treated with acoustic windows, doors and air conditioning. The Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport is owned and operated by the City of San José. The Airport Improvement Program and Transportation Access Projects are underway. The new Interim International Arrivals Facility and the reconstruction of Runway 30 Left is scheduled for completion later this year.
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