Airport Boosts Soundproofing by Neighbors

Burbank Airport officials on Monday joined Los Angeles and other cities in seeking state legislation to encourage residents living near airports to soundproof their homes.

Airport officials said property owners now are discouraged from soundproofing their homes because of higher property assessments and taxes when they do so.

A resolution adopted by the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority recommends enactment of legislation to exempt soundproofing of homes near airports from reassessment.

Airport Manager Thomas E. Greer said insulating homes could help reduce the effect of noise on residents and thus help airports comply with state-required levels.

The Los Angeles City Department of Airports is implementing a pilot program to insulate homes from noise, according to a memorandum by Councilman Robert Farrell sent to the Burbank Airport last week. However, the memorandum said, residents are reluctant to participate because their property taxes would increase.

Legislation sought by airports would not only exempt soundproofing from tax increases but also require that developers soundproof all new homes built near airports.