$2.5 Million Appropriated For Noise Compatibility Program Near Key West International Airport

38 homes near Key West International Airport that have been on and off a list for soundproofing assistance since 2000 should be finding things to be a little quieter soon. The FAA has approved a $2.5 million grant to add insulation, specially designed windows, and other noise reduction technology for the residents.

The online publication KeysNet.com reports that the homes on Linda and Flagler Avenues were originally put on the FAA's list in 2000, but were removed in 2005. 307 homes were originally identified as needing additional soundproofing. The 38 homes that were finally approved were removed from the list by a technicality in 2005, according to county Airports Director Peter Horton.

Horton contacted U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for help, who wrote to the FAA while the county did extensive noise studies over two years. The homes were put back in the program in 2007, and the grant money was finally appropriated last week.

Horton said it will cost about $75,000 per home for testing, architectural work including specially designed doors and windows, and other improvements. He said the contract should be finalized in September, with construction beginning shortly thereafter.

FMI: www.keywestinternationalairport.com