Residents press city leaders over constant droning and proposed biomedical-waste incineration at ReWorld/Covanta facility

Residents from Bristol and nearby Southington and Plainville used the City Council public-comments period to urge local and state officials to act on persistent low-frequency noise coming from the ReWorld (Covanta) facility and to oppose pending permits to burn biomedical waste there.

Scores of speakers described a steady, “droning” noise that they say has disrupted sleep and daily life. “This noise is not just an occasional disturbance. It's a constant unrelenting droning that makes it impossible to relax, focus, or sleep,” said Justine McGowan, a mental-health provider and Bristol resident. David James of Plainville told the council the noise has affected his young son’s sleep and that his family is considering moving.

Why it matters: Residents said the conditions are creating chronic sleep disruption and stress for households near the plant and asked city leaders to help. Speakers referenced public-health research and advocacy groups to underline the severity of chronic noise exposure.

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