Village of Matteson NOISE MITIGATION PROGRAM Q&A Session November 29, 2010
Meeting Agenda 1. Introduction of Staff 2. Overview of Noise Mitigation Program Eligibility Program Guidelines Eligible Improvements Process Other Improvements 3. Questions? 4. Adjournment
Train Noise Will Increase The average number of trains, along the former EJ&E tracks, is projected to increase over the next three years, subjecting the area immediately surrounding the railroad to increased noise and traffic. Canadian National (CN) has agreed to provide the Village of Matteson with a Noise Mitigation Fund to address these adverse impacts.
Eligibility The Eligibility Map designates the parcels where homeowners are eligible for funding to make improvements to their home. Homes included in the eligibility map are within 400 feet from the former EJ&E tracks or adjacent to the elevated Illinois Central railroad.
TIER 1 Within 200 from tracks Up to $8,000 per home TIER 2 Within 300 from tracks Up to $5,000 per home TIER 3 EXAMPLE DIAGRAM Within 400 from tracks Up to $2,500 per home
TIER 4 EXAMPLE DIAGRAM Tier 4: Adjacent to elevated tracks Up to $1,000 per home
Frequently Asked Questions How were the distances determined? How were the distances determined? We consulted with communities who have implemented similar programs. The Village of Frankfort used a Tier System, i.e: adjacent to tracks, separated by a parcel, separated by a street and 400 feet from the tracks Matteson came up with a Tier System, based on a parcel s distance from the tracks and the amount of money we had, to identify the homes most impacted by the train noise. Additionally, we also included a Tier specifically for homes adjacent to the Elevated Illinois Central tracks. If there is still funding in the Noise Mitigation Fund after the program ends, we can explore expanding the boundaries of the program.
PROGRAM GUIDELINES Property must be located within the municipal boundaries of the Village of Matteson & located on the Eligibility Map. Property address must be in good standing with the Village at the time of application. All projects must be approved prior to the commencement of any work. Property Owner or Contractor submits a description of the project, including STC specifications. Property Owner shall choose the contractor.*
Frequently Asked Questions Do we have to use the list of contractors provided by the Village? The list of contractors we have provided are NOT endorsed by the Village to perform Noise Mitigation work. They are only currently licensed and bonded with the Village, meaning their surety bond and licensure is current and up to date. Homeowners are welcome to use any contractor they desire, but they need to submit applicable paperwork to the building department before the issuance of a building permit.
PROGRAM GUIDELINES If the Property Owner is constructing or installing the improvements, only the cost of materials shall be eligible for reimbursement. Sweat equity (labor) will not be reimbursed. Funds will be dispersed directly to the contractor, if a contractor is used. Property Owners who incur costs and/or make improvements prior to approval of application and/or issuance of a building permit shall not be entitled to reimbursement. Contractors must provide a performance bond to ensure the improvements are completed.
Frequently Asked Questions What is a performance bond and who is responsible for providing it? The Performance Bond is provided to the Village by the Contractor to ensure that work is completed. If a Contractor does not finish the job, the Village may call upon the bond to recover money lost, up to the maximum amount.
PROGRAM GUIDELINES Property Owners may be required to obtain approval from their Homeowners Association prior to constructing any improvements. If approval is required, Property Owners shall be responsible for obtaining such approval. The Village does not enforce the rules and regulations of Homeowners Associations and a building permit does not affect compliance with Homeowners Associations regulations that also apply.
How long do I have to apply? The Noise Mitigation Program ends November 30, 2012 You have about two years to apply for the program and install the improvements.
What is an STC Rating? STC stands for Sound Transmission Class. STC ratings are an established way to average how much sound is stopped by something. STC ratings are the only way to accurately compare noise reduction products.
ELIGIBLE IMPROVEMENTS Windows STC Rating 32+ Doors STC Rating 30+ Insulation STC Rating 30+ Central A/C
ELIGIBLE IMPROVEMENTS Landscaping Fences & Walls STC Rating 20+ Vents & Attic Fans STC Rating 40+
What is the process to receive funding? Notification Fill Out & Return Application Review & Approval Building Permit Inspection Final Payment
Step 1: Notification Eligible Residents should have already received a package in the mail with: Program Guidelines Blank Application Eligibility Map
Step 2: Fill Out & Return Application Completed Application Specifications from the Manufacturer that highlights the STC Rating.
Step 2: Fill Out & Return Application Estimates Two (2) different estimates required, if using a contractor. One (1) estimate is required, if Property Owner is completing the work, including the cost of materials only. Sweat equity is not eligible for reimbursement.
Step 3: Review & Approval The Application is reviewed: Property Address in good standing Estimates are reviewed Applicants will receive written notification: Approved; or Denied Approval Letter will indicate the eligible amount of funding.
Step 4: Building Permit Submit a Noise Mitigation Building Permit Application. The Permit Application is reviewed & issued to Property Owner or Contractor. A Check for 25% of the Approved Amount is issued directly to contractor, if a contractor is used.
Step 5: Inspection Upon completion, Property Owner or Contractor makes an appointment for an inspection. Building Inspector inspects the improvements and issues Final Approval.
Step 6: Final Payment If the improvements were constructed by a contractor: The balance of the approved amount (75%) shall be paid directly to the contractor. If a Property Owner is completing the improvements: We will reimburse for all materials purchased, pending final inspection.
OTHER IMPROVEMENTS QUIET ZONE SOUND WALL ADVANCE WARNING SYSTEM
QUIET ZONE Quiet Zone A section of rail where safety improvements are constructed, waiving the requirement that trains must blow their horns when approaching a crossing. Matteson will have two quiet zones: Shared Quiet Zone at Ridgeland, Central and Cicero Avenue Main Street Quiet Zone
SOUND WALL
ADVANCE WARNING SYSTEM CN has agreed to install a Warning Light to warn motorists when the gates are down. Design is completed and construction will begin soon. Flashing Light Camera
Questions?