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West Haven council approves $16,000 for independent acoustical study after residents report persistent ‘hum’
Summary
After a year of resident complaints about a low‑frequency vibration, the City Council approved a $16,000 transfer to the Human Resources department to hire a third‑party acoustical firm for one week of field testing and a 30‑day report. Residents described sleep, health and pet impacts during public comment.
The West Haven City Council on Jan. 12, 2026 approved a $16,000 transfer from unallocated contingency to the Department of Human Resources to hire an independent acoustical firm to investigate a persistent low‑frequency hum reported by residents.
Commissioner John Carano told the council the city has been investigating complaints about a “rumble” and vibration for more than a year. He said field decibel readings taken at multiple sites, including Bailey Drive, Donna Lane and locations along Heffernan Drive, did not exceed the city or state decibel limits but did show a persistent low‑frequency tone that is difficult to measure and isolate. “We have completed all testing possible within the capabilities of our equipment,” Carano said, and recommended hiring an “independent certified” acoustical firm to supply instrumentation, conduct an airborne noise test, analyze results and prepare a report.
Carano explained that proving a prominent, discrete tone requires a 1/3‑octave band analysis; if a tone is confirmed, statutory…
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