For Immediate Release

Next Steps on Noise Barriers Announced

The Toronto Port Authority, which owns and operates the popular Billy Bishop Airport released its plans to conduct an Environmental Assessment (EA) to assess the potential impacts to the environment of installing the proposed noise barriers.

As part of its commitment to implement recommendations from the February 2010 independent report on noise mitigation, the Port Authority agreed to build noise barriers at the airport. The noise barriers will be designed to minimise noise from aircraft operations and from engine run-ups. The Port Authority is proposing two noise “walls” on the east and northern side of the airport, and an engine run-up facility on the south side. The proposed locations are set out on page 2 of the Project Description.

The EA timetable includes community consultation on the project description, a review period of the draft report, and a public meeting, slated for the week of May 9. See the attached schedule for details.

The final EA report is due in early June, whereafter the Port Authority would – pending the results of the EA – begin construction.

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Media Contact: Suzanna Birchwood, 416 863 2036/416 317 6405 (mobile)