Representatives Himes, Williams Introduce Legislation to Reduce Noise Pollution in Communities Near Federal Highways

Washington, D.C. - Today, Representatives Jim Himes (CT-04) and Nikema Williams (GA-05) announced the introduction of the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act, legislation that would allow communities that abut interstate highways to build noise barriers using federal funds. The Representatives introduced similar legislation in the 117^th and 118^th Congresses.

"Far too many Americans have come to accept highway noise as the grating soundtrack of their lives. A cacophony of car horns, emergency vehicle sirens, and truck engines fills communities all along the I-95 corridor in Southwestern Connecticut, reducing my constituents' quality of life," said Congressman Himes. "The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would empower localities to build noise barriers of their choosing with federal funds so residents impacted by road racket can finally get some peace and quiet."

"Constituents and elected officials have made it clear: we must address the disruptions caused by congested highways. For too many communities-particularly those intentionally divided by the construction of our interstate system-these roads have long brought not just displacement, but lasting harm," said Congresswoman Williams. "Today, the constant noise and pollution from those same highways continue to burden the neighborhoods they cut through and more. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act is a simple solution that allows existing federal resources to be used for desperately needed noise barriers. This is exactly how infrastructure investments should be made: tailored to the needs of communities. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would bring meaningful relief from the noise and air pollution affecting families living near our interstate highways."

The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would permit Highway Trust Fund dollars to be used by localities to build noise barriers in residential areas. Communities could use those federal funds to build noise barriers in-line with residents' aesthetic preferences and that serve dual purposes, such as hosting broadband infrastructure or solar panels.