Frequently Asked Questions
What is done to the home to insulate against aircraft noise?
A variety of construction techniques are used to insulate homes for residents. Currently, there are five basic construction packages available, depending on whether the home is masonry or frame construction. In either case, the basic modifications could include:
- Window Modifications
- Wall and Ceiling Modifications
- Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Modifications
- Door Treatments
Who pays?
The City of Chicago provides 100% of the funding for the Residential Sound Insulation Program through a tax on each airline ticket known as a Passenger Facility Charge. No Federal Grant funds or community taxpayer dollars are used to fund the Program.
What types of properties are eligible for the Program?
Since the 2002 Program, the Midway Noise Compatibility Commission (“Commissionâ€) has determined that eligible structures should be prioritized to include single-family, duplex, 2-flat, 3-flat and 4-flat residences that are owner or family-occupied.
Are newly constructed homes eligible for the Program?
The Commission has determined that homes for which a permit was issued after June 26, 1997, are not eligible for the Program.
Is there a “list†to sign-up for the Program?
No. Once the eligibility criteria is determined by the Commission and eligible blocks are identified by the Commission, homeowner briefing letters are sent to the homes of those respective blocks. The homeowner briefing is an “invitation only†meeting where the Program is discussed at length, and at that time, eligible homeowners can fill-out an application to participate in the Program. Applications for ineligible homes are not accepted.
Who can I call if I have questions about the Program?
The Chicago Department of Aviation has established the Residential Inquiry Line (1-773-894-3255) to address any inquiries about the Program.