LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Neighborhoods around some state highways across Michigan may be less noisy after a new plan was introduced to construct sound barriers.
What’s in the plan?
Representatives Tom Kuhn (R-Troy) and Representative Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy) submitted a plan to the legislature yesterday, which met for the first time since early November.
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“Noise pollution is growing right alongside the size of our interstates,” said Rep. Kuhn, R-Troy. “Our common-sense plan creates a process for local municipalities to seek state funding and secure peace and quiet for people living near busy roadways.”
The bipartisan plan would create a noise barrier fund through the state treasury to then provide grants or loans to local authorities who seek funding for noise barrier construction. Applicants would have to undergo a review process and depending on how they score across several categories including cost and residents affected, would receive funding.
“Rep. Kuhn, Sen. Webber, and myself have heard from a number of people in our community that just couldn’t stand the overpowering noise coming from I-75 in Troy,” said MacDonell, D-Troy. “Our plan gives communities across Michigan access to sound barriers and much-needed relief from noise pollution.”
How would the plan be funded?
The new program follows $10 million in the state budget meant to fund two sections of sound barriers in Troy, Michigan. Under the new proposal, local authorities would not have to wait for the next state budget, but could apply on a rolling basis.
Under current Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) regulations, a noise barrier or wall or earthen berm must be considered for noise abatement but there are other methods that are acceptable. Some of these alternatives include: time use restrictions for certain types of vehicles, modified speed limits, and exclusive lane designations.
State Senator Michael Webber (R-Rochester Hills) also helped to introduce a version before the Senate chamber.
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“I am proud to work with my House colleagues to jointly introduce this bill in both chambers,” said Sen. Webber. “Advocating for highway noise abatement needs to be a continued priority for our state.”
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