By Philip Newman
U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) has applauded the federal government for an appropriation that will pay for soundproofing Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology in East Elmhurst near LaGuardia Airport.
Crowley also called for action by Congress to soundproof neighborhoods surrounding the airport.
“I am pleased that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a grant to the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey to make necessary soundproofing updates to Vaughn College, shielding students and teachers from [the] constant noise of LaGuardia Airport,” Crowley said.
“Now, I urge my colleagues in Congress to move forward with the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act and give the Port Authority access to funds so it can continue to soundproof the neighborhoods in Queens affected by noise pollution,” Crowley said. “This measure will help make LaGuardia Airport a better friend to its many neighbors.”
Crowley said soundproofing at Vaughn College was overdue.
“For too long, students at Vaughn College, as well as thousands of Queens residents, have suffered from the disruptive noise of the airport,” Crowley said. “On top of the sheer nuisance, noise pollution can also pose serious health risks to residents and has the potential to diminish a student’s ability to concentrate in a classroom,” Crowley said.
Vaughn College was founded in Newark, N.J., in 1932 and moved to Queens in 1940. It is at 86-01 23rd Ave.
Reach contributing writer Philip Newman by e-mail at timesledgernews@cnglocal.com or phone at 718-260-4536.
