Newport Successfully Implements Mobile Noise Trailers to Enforce Local Noise Ordinance

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

First Citations Handed Out as Part of Noise Camera Program
 
NEWPORT, R.I. (WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2024) – The Newport Police Department (NPD) has intensified its efforts to enforce local noise ordinances with the introduction of a mobile noise enforcement trailer, which became operational in the summer of 2024. This trailer, equipped with advanced sound monitoring technology, is playing a key role in addressing noise complaints on Thames Street. As of October 2024, the department has reviewed 39 potential violations that resulted in 10 warnings and 8 municipal court summonses.

The enforcement data reflects a significant increase in citations compared to previous years. In 2023, without the trailers, only 21 violations were recorded, with the vast majority resulting in warnings. In 2022, no violations were issued. The introduction of this mobile trailer has strengthened the city's ability to enforce its noise ordinance, targeting excessive noise levels that exceed 83 decibels.

“The introduction of the mobile noise trailer has been a game changer for us,” said Captain Michael Naylor, Commander of the Criminal Investigative Division at NPD. “It allows us to monitor noise levels effectively and ensure a higher standard of peace and quiet for our residents and visitors alike.”

Enforcement and Fines
The trailer, which is positioned on Thames Street both due to resident complaints in the area and an available power source, has already identified numerous violators. Out of the 18 combined warnings and citations issued from the trailers, 16 were for passenger cars, 1 was for a motorcycle, and 1 for a pickup truck.

Violators of the noise ordinance face fines of $250. The first violator pleaded guilty in September 2024 in Newport Municipal Court.

Additional Mobile Noise Trailers and Rotational Placement
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the NPD plans to activate a second trailer soon so that one can operate for a time on battery power while the other is operating while charging.  This will allow for rotation of the mobile noise trailers among several known noise "hot spots" across Newport. Some of the areas where the trailers will be deployed include:

• Bellevue Avenue
• Ocean Drive
• J. T. Connell Highway (near the bridge ramp)
• Americas Cup Avenue
• Broadway
• Admiral Kalbfus Boulevard

These areas are known for higher traffic volumes and noise complaints, making them ideal for targeted enforcement.

Streamlined Processing and Future Enhancements
In an effort to further streamline the enforcement process, the department is working with IT teams to implement an enforcement portal that will synchronize video, sound data, and photographs of violators, including clear images of license plates. This will simplify the process for officers, allowing for quicker review and issuance of citations directly from the portal. Additionally, Newport Police are exploring the possibility of making noise violation fines payable by mail, eliminating the need for violators to appear in court.

“By utilizing these mobile noise trailers and developing efficient enforcement tools, we are taking an important step in reducing noise pollution and ensuring the quality of life for our residents,” added Chief Ryan Duffy, Director of Public Safety.

For more information on the noise ordinance or to report a violation, please contact the Newport Police Department at (401) 847-1306