Tuesday, February 26, 2008

BANG! BONG!! BOOM!! Construction Continues Along Myrtle Avenue

So it looks like Mr. Catsimatidis' credit concerns have not stopped construction along Myrtle Avenue, after all -- as we all learned around 7am this morning when the thunderous noise began.

It seemed to be coming from the Prince Street side of the lot, yet it was loud enough in my Ashland-facing apartment -- with the windows shut and a rattley fan going -- to wake me up. And it kept me up, even with ear plugs.

So I called 311 this afternoon and learned that those of us who work at night (and those who want peace and quiet during the day) may rest easy again.

Last year, the NYC Department of Environmental Protection completely revamped its noise pollution laws. According to their Noise Code Brochure, "[construction noises that] exceed ambient sound levels by more than 10 decibels as measured from inside any property or on a public street at 15 feet from the source" are prohibited. (I've uploaded a copy of the Brochure to the Yahoo Group's Files folder.)

And since 10 dB is about the level of a whisper, I would definitely say that the racket echoing from the construction pit was out of bounds today.

So I called in the complaint and was told that the DEP will check it out within the next day or so. Most likely they are not soundproofing to the degree set forth in the City's Noise Codes.

Please keep your ears and eyes open during this construction project, and let the Board know that we know our rights.

They and Management must stay vigilant and in contact with the Catsimatidis people so that our quality of life is duly protected during the many, many months that this construction is underway.

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