Anti-noise groups must join forces
Since O'Hare's runways were reconfigured, noise levels have become unacceptable while air quality has deteriorated. Instead of seeking long-term solutions, the various airport noise organizations squabble over priority and authenticity when we need an intelligent, unified approach to permanent noise abatement at O'Hare from an umbrella organization with legal standing.
When all affected suburban towns, counties, and impacted Chicago neighborhoods unite to present a solid "best solutions" front, all parties can engage in serious debate.
Some proposals will require research and creative cooperation among the stake holders; others can be reached through good faith collaboration.
Chicago and the FAA will listen only when serious, concrete, and outcomes-based proposals have been proffered and consequences defined.
Long-term solutions are necessarily complex. Short-term changes can be made immediately.
I suggest that all departures and arrivals pathways be confined to main roads and highways surrounding the airport, i.e. the toll roads, expressways, and principal thoroughfares.
This would eliminate much of the residential overfly disturbances. Noise and air pollution are often the result of planes flying too low, especially after takeoff. I recommend steeper ascents and descents, turning at higher altitudes.
Serious negotiators need to research noise abatement ordinances like John Wayne Airport's General Aviation Noise Ordinance (GANO) in Orange County. Nighttime flights can't be eliminated, but this agreement suggests possible solutions.
Creative initiatives like Schiphol Airport's ridge and furrow landscape designs might work at O'Hare borders as well as rooftop abatement configurations atop commercial buildings that neighbor the Dutch airport.
A quick Google search on these topics would provide workable ideas, not complaints and accusations that lead nowhere.
If the various noise commissions are serious, they need to do serious work, carefully researched and presented with the united voice of a legal entity. Get to work!
Sheila M. Barrett
Elk Grove Village