The Residential Sound Insulation Program Committee met on May 15, 2019. View Agenda Packet here.
Odorous Windows Status
CDA staff provided update on the Odorous Windows situation. 198 homes reported odors, 138 have been confirmed to have issues. 72 of these homes are in Chicago, 66 in suburban communities.
Two independent experts were hired to determine what was causing the odor. The odor was found to be coming from PVC coating on the mesh screens. Architectural testing expert, Intertec has developed recommendations for construction specs for window products used in the Residential Sound Insulation Program. CDA is working with an architect to develop construction specs, which should be ready in a few months. Once the specs are completed, CDA will go out to bid for new homes. More information is available here.
Phase 17 1 & 2 homes were completed last year (primarily in Chicago and Park Ridge). All others have been on hold until the odor situation is resolved. The City is expected to conduct repairs and replacement as needed in 300 homes per year based on available funds. They are replacing screen materials and any necessary components. Sound Solutions, the vendor of the problem windows has gone out of business and is not honoring their warranty. Some of the affected homes only require mechanical repairs – there are 53 homes at O’Hare with mechanical issues; 15 in Chicago, 38 in suburbs. Construction started in April 2019. The construction contractor and manager review each window with the homeowner before construction begins, documenting any new problems.
Phase 17 Status
Phase 17 – Bid Package 3
This package includes historical homes. 132 home inventory appointments have been completed for these homes. The City anticipates going out to bid in the third quarter of 2019, with the bid opening in the fourth quarter. The program aims to preserve existing conditions, replacing like for like. For example, vinyl windows are to be replaced with vinyl, wood windows with acoustic wood windows. Not required to upgrade, retrofit or restore to original materials or condition.
Phase 18 Status
This phase includes new invitations and past program areas. There are 532 homes included in this phase. Currently preparing for homeowner briefings, expected to be held at end of the second quarter of 2019, will provide location and dates soon. Have not determined enrollment deadline. This phase will be broken out into two separate packages – 250 homes in the first package, up to 282 in second.
Any remaining homes will be included in Phase 19, which will encompass all remaining eligible homes within the current OMP Noise Contour. These homes must be finished by the time OMP is complete, expected upon completion of Runway 9R/27L in the Fall of 2021.
The next meeting of the Residential Sound Insulation Program Committee will be held on September 18, 2019.
