Inadequate Building Codes

No noise construction codes were in existence in Virginia Beach until 1995, however, they were not implemented until 1998 & were recently modified in 2002! A month after the diluted building code were issued, they were modified by City incorrectly claiming that "windows & doors were a problem" as upgraded materials were not readily available for noise abatement in the very high noise contours. Not withstanding the modifications, the City codes stipulated the use of traditional double-pane thermal windows which is expressed as unsuitable in the Wyle report prepared for the U.S. Navy and FAA in 1992 (see below for links to Wyle Report). Finally, many home in Virginia Beach are in the noise contours estimated to be about 50,000 by Navy & Wyle. This is noted in the administrative record under Hornet EIS & counts were made using the "1990 census." Most of the housing stock is old & have single pane glazing while newer homes with traditional thermal double-pane glazing are just as worthless for acoustical application & noise reduction. One other item is the current & controversial issues by Navy & City over pending projects located in 65 to 75dB. In areas 75dB, housing is not recommended! Prior to Navy modification, housing in the 65 to 75 dB could be built under "conditional use" as long as major sound abatement construction is incorporated in the home. The idea is to create a noise level reduction (NLR) ranging from 25dB to 35dB depending on noise contour location of home. The NLR was stipulated with the windows closed & not opened so its totally unrealistic & unresponsive to the needs of citizens who should be able to open windows as often as they like for fresh air which also saves on energy costs. Wyle claims that there is only a 15dB reduction when windows are opened so reaching an interior sound reduction well below 65dB (EPA says interior noise should not exceed 45dB) is virtually impossible during single fly over events! That is a principle rationale for significant improvements on Part 150 programs so that air conditioning & mechanical ventilation upgrades could also be implemented in addition to extensive sound abatement construction.. That is why Oceana needs a program similar to Part 150. These upgrades should not be a cost absorbed by impacted citizens! READ MORE OF THE WYLE WR 89-7 REPORT