Sussex County's new slogan might be Noise 'R' Us.
The increase in motor vehicle noise over just the past two years is marked. I have no complaint about concrete trucks or other commercial vehicles; they do their job and are generally off the road by 6 p.m.
The modified pickup trucks, screaming "crotch rocket" and roaring Harley motorcycles, and the large number of vehicles that seem to have no mufflers at all bombard our ears at all hours of the day and night. Everywhere these vehicles pass they disturb the peace.
This is a rolling nuisance that affects the entire county.
I don't care what people drive, I just don't want to hear them - especially from half a mile away through closed, double-glazed windows. I would like to be able to open my windows without being assaulted by this illegal, inconsiderate roar.
The Delaware Motor Vehicle Code states: No person shall drive a motor vehicle, including a motorcycle, on a highway, including residential streets, unless such motor vehicle or motorcycle is equipped with a muffler in good working order and in accordance with manufacturer's specifications and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise."
We might not be able to do anything about the traffic volume around here, but how about simply enforcing noise statutes? Can we dial it back to "legal?"
Excessive motor vehicle noise in Sussex County and beyond is a rapidly growing problem that adversely affects our health, well-being, and overall quality of life, and may well result in diminished property values.
Our local representatives are aware of this issue. Representatives Steve Smyk, Dave Wilson, and Ruth Briggs King jointly sponsored establishment of the House Noise Control Task Force to review the Delaware Noise Control Act, local ordinances, and enforcement issues throughout the state.
Call, write, or email them, or your own local and state representatives, and let them know your concerns.
Make your voice heard for peace and quiet.
Vincent Griscavage
Lewes
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