Noise at the UV Pilot Site

I am writing to express significant concerns regarding the noise levels emanating from the UV Pilot site located at the Lynn/Swampscott line. This letter addresses discrepancies in the noise assessment presented in the January 27, 2025, Kleinfelder consent decree response and highlights the impact on direct abutters.

The Kleinfelder assessment assumes a noise level standard of 60 dB(A) at 20 feet for the UV Pilot project. This assumption overlooks the primary state regulation governing noise pollution in Massachusetts: 310 CMR 7.10: Noise. This regulation, adopted under the authority of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L.) Chapter 111, Sections 142A-142N , states that a source of sound is generally considered to be in violation if it increases the broadband sound level by more than 10 dB(A) above ambient (background) sound levels. MassDEP's Division of Air Quality Control (DAQC) Policy 90-001, effective February 1, 1990, reaffirms this enforcement guideline. It clearly states that a source of sound violates 310 CMR 7.10 if it increases the broadband sound level by more than 10 dB(A) above ambient. Ambient is defined as the background A-weighted sound level that is exceeded 90% of the time measured during equipment operating hours.

Measurements taken at the UV Pilot site for the generator and pump combination consistently show outputs of 60-62 dB(A), with recent 30-second interval outputs reaching 65-66 dB(A). Prior to startup, the ambient noise level in the area was approximately 40-42 dB(A). If the stated 60 dB(A) at 20 feet is measured, 70 dB A is typical, at odds with the stated 60 dB A

The continuous operation of the pumps and the generator( 24hrs, 7 days a week ) creates an environment for direct abutters that prevents them from having enjoying the outdoors, day or night, because of the intrusive and unabated low frequency noise. Residents have no choice but to confine themselves indoors with the windows closed. This is particularly impactful for residents with non-traditional schedules. This situation has escalated beyond an inconvenience to become a significant mental health concern for those directly affected. The knowledge that the noise will not stop until after Labor Day weekend is distressing and disrespectful of the neighborhood and it's residents.

Proposed Solutions

Adjusted Operating Hours: Pausing operations between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM is not unreasonable given the intrusive and disruptive nature of the installation.