NoiseOFF - The Citizens Coalition Against Noise Pollution

New York

NYC Noise Code Takes Effect

On July 1st, the new noise code takes effect, not since updated in over thirty years. In 2005, the city's 311 system logged over 335,000 noise complaints. According to Mayor Bloomberg, the legislation promises "a flexible, yet enforceable noise code that responds to the need for peace and quiet while maintaining New York's reputation as the city that never sleeps."

Here is press release and the revised noise code.

Why Is Astoria, Queens So Noisy?

NoiseOFF was founded in Astoria, Queens for good reason. The deafening noise from boom cars, hot-rods and motorcycles with illegally modified exhausts, car alarms, trucks with jake brakes, sidewalk cafés and fast food restaurants open all night gives residents an earful. We have an entire section on Astoria, Queens.

Reflecting On the Lack of Acoustical Consideration at Ground Zero

The Ground Zero memorial called "Reflecting Absence" consists of two chasms where the Twin Towers once stood and water will fall thirty feet from ground level into a pool where it will drain off another fifteen foot ledge. Will the noises from the surrounding environment and a very loud waterfall negate the quiet, somber atmosphere intended for the memorial?

Here is the article.

LIRR Train Noise in Queens and Long Island

Jack Mevorach, an attorney in Long Island has created a neighborhood association called the Train Noise Abatement Association ("TNAA"). With members in Queens, Nassau and Suffolk counties, they are working with federal, state, county, town and village officials to abate train noise. You can view the TNAA flyer and get on the mailing list by sending an e-mail to jack@mevorach.com

Staten Island Residents Organize Against NASCAR Racetrack Development

International Speedway Corp (ISC) purchased land on Staten Island with the intention of building a NASCAR racetrack. The proposed racetrack is designed to hold 80,000 fans, which means that on race days, residents will have to deal with tremendous noise from vehicle traffic and rowdy fans. Several dozen stock cars roaring at high speeds can be heard for miles around. Helicopters covering the event will also contribute to the din as well. A coalition of Staten Island citizens have formed in opposition of the proposed development.

Here is the site: DefeatNASCAR.org.

Buffalo to Outlaw Aftermarket Car Stereos

In Buffalo, the New York Common Council moved a step closer to adopting an ordinance that would ban aftermarket car stereos. Council President David A. Franczyk introduced a measure in June 2006 for the the city attorney rule on the legality of an ordinance that would make it a crime to enter the city with a stereo capable of playing loud music.

If this legislation is passed, it would effectively make booming a criminal offense that can result in the confiscation of the equipment and subject the violator to severe penalties. Since the plan was unveiled, Franczyk said his office has been flooded with calls, letters and e-mails from residents who support the effort.

Queens Community Boards

Community Boards serve as advocates and service coordinators for the community and its residents. They can approve or deny zoning and variance permits in an advisory capacity and make recommendations. They cannot order any city agency or official to perform a specific task, but they are influential in resolving problems they address. Members of the board are appointed by the City Council Member and the Queens Borough President (Helen Marshall). The hiring of the District Manager is voted on by members of the Board.

Here is the Community Board 1 By-Laws and Committees

NYPD Precinct Community Council

The Precinct Community Council is intended as a forum where residents can voice concerns about crime and quality of life issues directly to police officials. The monthly meetings serve to reduce crime and improve police-community relations in neighborhoods. Citizens with good attendance can become members and elect their own officers to administer council meetings.

Here is the NYPD Precinct Community Council Regulations. In 2004, the NYPD changed the rules on term limits. Call or visit your local precinct and inquire about the next scheduled monthly meeting in your neighborhood.

Manhattan - Top Ten Noisiest Bars

Some bars in New York City get away with blasting loud music and disrupting neighborhoods without repercussions. This report contains a list of the ten most complained about bars in Manhattan that demonstrate little consideration for their residential neighbors. It also exposes the dysfunctional process by which liquor licenses are granted and noise complaints are addressed.
Eva S. Moskowitz
The Council Of the City of New York 2005 [PDF]
Read our NoiseOFF Press Release: Noisiest Bars Blight Manhattan Neighborhoods
At An Unhappy Hour: 10 Noisiest Bars In Manhattan - Report | Cover | Press Release

Survey About Noise Details City's Number One Annoyance

The CENYC and Baruch College's eTownPanel.com has released the results of a new online survey about the serious noise problem in NYC and the nation. New Yorkers say they're most often bothered by honking horns, car alarms, and boom cars or car stereos, followed by traffic, rowdy passersby, motorcycles, and sirens. By contrast, respondents nationwide are more often bothered by lawn mowing and barking dogs, but they too report boom cars and sirens as top noise problems. Here is the report.

Book Review: Cedarhurst Alley

This fictional book speaks to the anguish of so many people whose lives have been shattered by overhead jet noise. Author Denny Hatch gives voice to a story vividly depicting one man's battle against noise and government authority in his new book, Cedarhurst Alley. Here is a review.

Heavy Bass Victims You Are Not Alone
Do you often hear low thumping, rumbling, and booming sounds that you can't ignore, and wonder why others seem to be going about their business as if everything is normal and fine? If you feel alone, you are not.
James Kaufman, Mark Huber
Rochester Soundscape Society 2005 [PDF]