Quigley, Schakowsky Work to Mitigate Impact of Increased O'Hare Traffic

Press Release

U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05) and Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) are calling on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) to further examine ways to mitigate O'Hare Airport noise pollution resulting from the new runways opening this week as part of the O'Hare Modernization Program.

"The O'Hare Modernization Program will increase safety, expand operations and improve efficiency at this vital economic engine," said Rep. Quigley. "But vibrant neighborhoods and stable property values need not be sacrificed in the process. I'll continue bringing neighbors and airport officials together to explore additional ways we can address community concerns."

In a letter to the FAA, Quigley and Schakowsky encouraged officials to reexamine the 65 Day-Night Average Sound Level (DNL) metric used to measure noise effects on individuals due to aviation activities. Lowering the level would potentially allow more residents to qualify for the O'Hare Residential Sound Insulation Program (RSIP). The representatives believe the metric is outdated and does not accurately "reflect the true level of discomfort experienced by residents." For a full copy of the letter, please click here.

A separate letter to the CDA asks officials to consider expanding the Fly Quiet program, which encourages pilots and air traffic controllers to use designated nighttime preferential runways and flight tracks that direct aircraft over less populated areas, such as forest preserves, highways and commercial or industrial areas. For a full copy of the letter, please click here.

O'Hare became a part of Illinois' 5th Congressional District in January of this year. Since then, Rep. Quigley has met continuously with neighborhood organizations and aviation officials to discuss solutions to the noise concerns and was able to have a temporary noise monitor placed at North Park Village. Rep. Quigley serves on the House Committee on Appropriations, where he has made Chicago-area infrastructure investment a top priority as a member of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD).

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