Airport Noise, Pollution Addressed In New Agreement

ALAMEDA, CA — The City of Alameda, the Citizens League for Airport Safety and Serenity (CLASS), and the Port of Oakland have reached a comprehensive settlement agreement aimed at mitigating noise, pollution, and traffic concerns during the Oakland Airport Terminal Modernization and Development Project.

The agreement, unanimously approved by the Alameda City Council and the Port of Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, establishes enforceable measures to protect residents from the project’s potential impacts.

The modernization project includes demolishing the Terminal 1 Ticketing and Baggage Claim Building and constructing a new, state-of-the-art terminal with up to 16 additional gates. However, the agreement ensures that the expansion will not increase flight volume or alter existing runway configurations.

"This agreement will go a long way toward addressing the concerns of CLASS and its members," said CLASS President Jon Hamilton. "We appreciate the Port’s willingness to take our concerns seriously and are pleased that there will now be an official OAK Noise Plan setting forth the Port’s commitments to address noise impacts from flights over our communities."

Key provisions of the agreement include an improved noise management plan, air quality monitoring, and traffic control measures to minimize congestion in Alameda. The Port also reaffirmed its commitment to zero-emission operations and compliance with prior settlement agreements.

Alameda City Manager Jennifer Ott emphasized the city’s advocacy on behalf of residents. "The City of Alameda listened to concerns from our residents, advocated for changes to the project with the Port, and, in strong partnership with CLASS, negotiated a settlement agreement that proactively protects the Alameda community’s interests," Ott said.

The modernization project is expected to enhance safety and efficiency at Oakland Airport while balancing the needs of the surrounding communities.

“We are deeply appreciative of the continued partnership with CLASS and the City of Alameda,” said Kristi McKenney, Executive Director of the Port of Oakland. “This is an important step as we seek to modernize the airport and be responsive to the needs of our local communities.”

Read the settlement report and agreement.