Quigley, Duckworth and Schakowsky Urge CDA To Improve O'Hare Noise Complaint Process
Press Release
Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (IL-05), Tammy Duckworth (IL-08) and Jan Schakowksy (IL-09) called on the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) to take immediate steps to improve the CDA's noise complaint process at O'Hare International Airport. The request comes after constituents of all three congressional districts have consistently complained that the CDA is not taking adequate steps to record and respond to resident complaints regarding increased airplane noise at O'Hare.
"With noise resulting from the O'Hare Modernization Program at record levels, my constituents need to know that their voices are being heard," said Rep. Quigley. "Our residents can't get a decent night's sleep or even enjoy quality time outside with their children. Therefore, we believe it's imperative that the City fund and operate a telephone hotline that accurately and compassionately responds to their noise complaints."
In the letter to Commissioner Rosemarie Andolino, the members called for a dedicated O'Hare noise complaint line, manned by personnel versed on the noise issue to begin to get a truly accurate count of constituent complaints.
"Our constituents in Chicago have told us repeatedly that their calls are often dropped or not answered in a reasonable time," the Illinois members wrote. "It's no wonder that many of our constituents feel that the very system put in place to record their concerns is simply ignoring them instead."
"It is crucial that my constituents have the opportunity to express their opinions about noise coming from O'Hare International Airport and that these complaints are responded to in a timely fashion," said Rep. Duckworth. "Many residents in communities surrounding O'Hare are greatly inconvenienced by noise from the airport and we need to make sure that their voices are heard."
"Too many of our constituents live, work and go to school under consistent airplane noise. They deserve to know that when noise levels are unbearable, their complaints will be heard and responded to in a timely manner," said Rep. Schakowsky. "A dedicated complaint line is a critical element in providing that guarantee, and I will continue to work with my colleagues on this important priority."
Source