Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport

FAR Part 150 Study

Detroit, Michigan

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The Barnard Dunkelberg & Company Team is preparing a Part 150 Noise Compatibility Study at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to update the Airport’s previous noise study, which was completed in 1992. DTW is a major hub airport with Northwest Airlines as the dominant air carrier.

The airport operates a total of six runways with four parallel runways serving as the primary runway complex and two parallel crosswind runways accommodating operations when winds dictate. Non-compatible land uses are primarily located north and east of the airport both within and outside the 65 DNL noise contours.

Community involvement, especially with those communities near the Airport but outside the 65 DNL noise contour, is a primary component of the scope of services. The project also includes the development of the Noise Exposure Maps and Noise Compatibility Program, with the addition of extensive public involvement through a Study Advisory Committee. Noise monitoring and detailed radar flight track analysis have also been incorporated into the project to ensure a comprehensive and defensible project.

Concurrent with the Part 150 Noise Compatibility Study, DTW is also updating the Airport Master Plan, redeveloping the north terminal areas, rehabilitating two of its primary runways, and undergoing a number of other planning, construction, and environmental projects. Given the numerous ongoing projects at the airport, the Part 150 Noise Compatibility Study Team has implemented an aggressive coordination strategy to ensure the projects progress smoothly in parallel.

Project Features

  • Shrinking contours compared to previous Part 150 Study leading to significant confusion within the surrounding communities.
  • Airport is owned by Wayne County, but surrounded by other incorporated jurisdictions.
  • Previous residential sound insulation program nearly completed. Most homes within the updated 65 DNL noise contour have been insulated.
  • Future noise compatibility and mitigation options will rely less on sound insulation and more on operational changes with impacts beyond the 65 DNL noise contour.
  • Multiple ongoing airport projects that could affect noise exposure.

Client.
Wayne County Airport Authority
Scott Roberts, Noise Program Manager
(734) 753-2205