JERSEY CITY, N.J. - Yesterday, Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) hosted a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Workshop in Jersey City to address the pervasive issue of helicopter noise on local communities.
Attendees of the workshop included representatives from the FAA Eastern Region, Hudson County elected officials, and representatives from Stop The Chop NY/NJ, a helicopter noise advocacy group.
“Since I took office, one of the most common issues I've heard about from constituents is helicopter noise,” said Congressman Rob Menendez. “This meeting was an important, productive step in a years-long effort to resolve this issue. I urge our partners at the FAA and throughout the community to continue this collaboration, ensuring that we identify and implement tangible solutions moving forward. We’ll keep working until New Jersey families finally get the relief they deserve.”
The workshop comes after months of pressure from Congressman Menendez and local leaders, urging the FAA to take the issue of helicopter noise seriously and listen to the complaints of area residents.
In his first term in Congress, Menendez has introduced two pieces of legislation focused on reducing helicopter noise. The Communities Before Air Tourism Act would require the FAA and National Park Service (NPS) to consult with the communities that live under prospective helicopter routes when entering into Air Tour Management Voluntary Agreements and take their wellbeing into consideration. The Protecting Communities from Helicopter Noise Act would direct the FAA to conduct a study on the operations of helicopters within a 15-mile radius of the Statue of Liberty and make recommendations on how to alleviate helicopter noise.
Congressman Menendez proudly serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he is advocating for solutions to transit-related issues that impact our communities and families, including helicopter noise, aging infrastructure, and rail breakdowns and cancellations.
