Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the O’Hare School Sound Insulation Program.

Which schools are eligible for School Sound Insulation?
In 1982, a Technical Working Group, comprised of representatives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the airlines, suburban communities and Chicago, recommended the soundproofing of three schools. In 1984, the FAA approved the Final Environmental Impact Statement for O’Hare’s Master Plan which identified 27 schools impacted by average noise levels of at least 70 DNL. Day-Night Average Sound Level, or DNL, is a measure used to describe the average aircraft noise levels over a 24-hour period, and includes a ten decibel penalty for nighttime aircraft noise between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

Since its formation in 1997, the O’Hare Noise Compatibility Commission determines which schools will participate in the Program based on noise levels and available funding. If appropriate, the Department of Aviation conducts interior and exterior noise measurements at each school during regular classroom hours. The eligibility for school sound insulation is based on the interior levels above FAA recommended guidelines for the expenditure of noise abatement funds.

How long has the School Sound Insulation Program been around?
Since 1982, the Department of Aviation has administered the School Sound Insulation Program in the communities around O’Hare Airport. The program is the largest and among the oldest in the nation and has provided approximately $287.8 million in funds to sound insulate 108 completed schools and 10 schools in design/construction or closeout phase.

What is done to the school to insulate against noise?
Typical sound insulation measures could include:
  • windows modifications
  • addition of acoustical insulation batts to ceiling assemblies
  • weather-stripping windows and doors
  • installation of new air conditioning and ventilation systems
  • addition of vestibules at exterior doors
Who pays?
The City of Chicago provides 100% funding for the Program (using the Passenger Facility Charge of $4.50 assessed by the airlines for each passenger departing O’Hare). For schools that are sound insulated through the FAA’s program, the FAA pays 80%, while the City of Chicago pays the remaining 20%.

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