Your recent editorial regarding the Paine Field airport left out most of the relevant facts regarding expansion at Paine Field. Myriad studies exist that actually quantify the effects of traffic and the impact of aircraft noise on home values and, most significantly, schools.
The Mukilteo School District is currently looking at the noise levels and mitigation factors in classrooms just due to the noise of the HVAC systems and everyday life, as well as voice enhancements to make sure students are able to hear instructions – all improvements necessary to give students a chance to succeed. Adding commercial jet noise to the mix starts us down the road pioneered by the Highline School District, which has already devoured $200 million and counting in their futile attempt at noise mitigation.
Why should taxpayers have to pay for more flawed studies, such as the “market study” released last September, when the Mediated Role Determination, the county’s 27-year-old promise to maintain Paine’s role, has resulted in massive upscale residential development in surrounding areas? An honest economic study would show this to be a financial boondoggle for Snohomish County. The expenditures necessary for increased security, noise abatement and traffic improvements are just the beginning, and will never be offset by any imaginary business influx, let alone the great reduction to the quality of life in our communities, an issue you completely ignored.
Sea-Tac has enough capacity to handle the expected air traffic for another 25 years. The citizens of Washington state, and especially south Snohomish County, have already paid significantly to adjust to the major impact of airport noise on the surrounding areas and under the flight patterns. Your recommendation ignores reality and common sense, to say nothing of the real forces quietly manipulating our elected officials behind the scenes.
Christine Morrison
Edmonds
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