BOSTON – Legislation filed by State Representative Frank A. Moran (D – Lawrence) in coordination with a group of Andover constituents passed the House of Representatives last week and is now being considered by the Senate.
House Bill 4893, An Act Providing for a Study of Noise Impacts from the Confluence of Interstates 93 and 495 was filed to remedy the ongoing issue of noise pollution within the Starwood Crossing neighborhood in Andover. This legislation directs the Massachusetts Department of Transportation to determine the ambient noise levels generated by traffic congestion and its impact on the surrounding areas. The department will then be required to issue recommendations for the proper noise abatement measures, such as the construction of a highway noise barrier, on or before June 1, 2021.
“I file this legislation on behalf of a group of concerned Andover residents who have been experiencing ongoing frustration and annoyance at the constant noise pollution being generated by the heavily trafficked motorways adjacent to their homes,” said State Representative Frank A. Moran. “I was proud to work alongside Jonathan Dean of Andover and will continue to follow this project as it begins to take shape in the coming months.”
“Numerous studies have linked noise pollution to increased anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke,” said Jonathan Dean of Andover. “H.4893 will finally help take steps to combat the issue of noise pollution in the Commonwealth and its negative effects on the public’s health, creating a healthier and quieter place to raise families.”
