Agreement Between Broward County, Dania Beach Awaits FAA Approval

Broward County, FL and the community of Dania Beach have reached a settlement over a long-simmering dispute over the extension of the south runway at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (KFLL) International Airport. The Broward County Commission approved the agreement on a 7-0 vote earlier this week, with two members not present at the meeting.

Under terms of the agreement, some homeowners will be allowed to sign up for sales assistance for their residences, a process which could take years. In accepting the assistance, they waive the right to sue the county or accept payment for soundproofing for their homes.

The Miami Herald reports that the extended runway will be built 65 feet over highway U.S. 1 and be parallel to another road near the airport. The $790 million project is expected to be completed in 2014, increasing the airport's capacity and reducing delays. FAA analysis indicates the improvements will increase the runway's capacity to 107 flights per hour.

Homeowners inside a zone that receives noise levels above 65 decibels over a 24 hour period can receive payments equal to 20 percent of their home's value, or 25 percent of the home's value if it is sold at a price that much lower than market value. Outside the 65 decibel zone, homeowners are eligible for free soundproofing. In all, about 1,700 homes are affected in some way.

The agreement must be approved by the FAA. Broward Aviation Director Kent George said he will seek a meeting with FAA officials in December to go over the settlement. The agency would have 120 days to make a decision.

FMI: www.fll.net