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Installation of I-81 noise barriers in North Syracuse begins

State DOT crews install highway noise barriers on I-81 South in North Syracuse.
John Smith / WAER News
State DOT crews install highway noise barriers on I-81 South in North Syracuse.

Northern Onondaga County residents who live in neighborhoods bordering Interstates 81 and 481 stand to lose a significant ‘roar’ of highway traffic noise. The State DOT is installing noise barrier along Interstate 81 between North Syracuse and Cicero as part of the massive I-81 revitalization project. Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez says installation of the massive panels continue.

“Through the many contracts that we’re executing as a part of this project. And then in addition, as you have an outgrowth of after Micron finishes their environmental assessment, we’ll know exactly what that documents, as well, and where that need may also exist.”

The noise barriers are being carefully lowered in place between anchored steel girders. Once installed, Perez says neighborhoods should notice it’s quieter. For residents who still hear the noise, White House Intergovernmental Affairs Advisor Tom Perez says… speak up!

“Every aspect of the revitalization project… communities that are potentially impacted will always have a seat at the table. That’s not only an aspiration, it’s the law!”

As WAER has previously reported, Liverpool residents who live further north along Interstate-481 and Route 31 have complained of increased traffic noise. The State DOT’s I-81 Project Director Elizabeth Parmley says they hear you, while the area is outside of the project’s limits; however, future projects might require a noise analysis.