Many cities have introduced “noise cameras” to monitor loud motorcycles and other vehicles, resulting in over $1.7 million in fines in recent years.
Brooklyn City Councilman Lincoln Restler mentioned that constituents are actually requesting more cameras on their streets. He’s observed a significant increase in noise complaints lately, prompting his own investment in a $40,000 device placed on Tilary Street, near the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridge.
“Neighbors are really frustrated about the noise,” he noted, explaining how hard it is to address these issues.
Councillors have pointed out the rise in reckless driving and booming music since the pandemic, indicating it’s become a more frequent nuisance.
According to one councillor, these disturbances “seriously harm the quality of life” in the community, especially with ongoing traffic issues and noise.
Restler noted, “We all live in New York City and are accustomed to some noise, but it should be reasonable.”
The Tilary Street Camera is part of an initiative launched by the city’s Department of Environmental Protection, which began as a pilot program in June 2021 and was fully operational as of 2023 after gaining city council approval.
Much like speed and red light cameras, these noise cameras take a picture of vehicles that surpass the 85-decibel threshold. If sound levels exceed this limit, a ticket is issued, starting at $800, with repeat offenders facing penalties of up to $2,500.
This year alone, the program has generated 2,037 tickets amounting to $1,794,900 in fines, although only about $610,154 has been collected thus far.
The exact locations of these cameras are kept confidential, but they are spread throughout the boroughs, excluding Staten Island, and can be found from Midtown Manhattan to Long Island City and Bayridge in Brooklyn.
There’s been a notable increase in 311 complaints regarding loud music, with hundreds recorded on Tilary Street since 2010.
Experts warn that high noise levels can lead to stress, sleep disturbances, and even heart problems.
Restler expressed a desire to expand the program but mentioned that the newly proposed law for 2024 doesn’t allocate funds for additional cameras in the city’s latest budget. According to the law, at least five cameras are expected to be operational in each borough by September 30th.
He described this initiative as an effective strategy to address the disruptions caused by careless drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists in the community.
Restler concluded, “I hope the next mayor adheres to this law, ensuring that we see five new cameras installed annually in the city.”
