GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $120,000 FOR LIHU`E AIRPORT STUDY

For Immediate Release:  January 30, 2008

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $120,000 to update the Noise Compatibility Program (NCP) at Līhu‘e Airport on Kaua‘i. The funds will be used to determine if aircraft noise is incompatible with current land use near the airport and to recommend noise mitigation measures as necessary. The last NCP update was completed in 1989.

“Over the past 20 years, there has been an increase in interisland and overseas flights in and out of Līhu‘e Airport,” said Governor Lingle. “It is time to update the airport’s Noise Compatibility Program to ensure that land near the airport is used in ways that are compatible with aircraft noise and that the public is inconvenienced as little as possible.”

The updated NCP will include new Noise Exposure Maps for current aircraft noise levels and for five-year projected levels, as well as recommended measures to mitigate current noise issues and prevent future incompatible land use near the airport. If approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, these measures, including the possible sound insulation of homes, would be eligible for federal financing.

The study is scheduled to begin in February 2008 and be completed in December 2008.

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For more information, contact:

Brennon Morioka
Interim Director, Dept. of Transportation
Phone: (808) 587-2150

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043