Consultant Services to Develop, Conduct, and Manage the Sound Insulation Program (SIP)

Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) initiated a voluntary 14 CFR Part 150 Noise Study and Noise Compatibility Program (NCP) in 2022 to address changes in airport operating conditions since the original 1993 NCP, including the Wisconsin Air National Guard's transition from F‑16C to F‑35A aircraft at Truax Field. In 2025, airport administration withdrew the 2024 NCP submittal to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in order to update and reevaluate proposed mitigation measures and incorporate additional stakeholder review, public comment, and community feedback. A key mitigation measure identified for reevaluation was the Sound Insulation Program (SIP), now included in this RFQ. Under 14 CFR Part 150, noise compatibility guidelines define allowable land uses based on their sensitivity to aircraft noise. A Day–Night Average Sound Level (DNL) of 75dB (or higher) is considered incompatible for residences, schools, hospitals, and churches, while a DNL of 65dB renders these land uses compatible only, if they are sound‑insulated. FAA generally considers land uses below DNL 65dB compatible without mitigation. As part of the Part 150 process, MSN updated its Noise Exposure Map (NEM), covering the period 2022 through 2027. The FAA accepted the updated NEM in December 2023. Based on the 2027 noise contours, approximately 1,250 residential units, one place of worship, one daycare facility, one transient lodging facility, and one educational facility fall within the future 65dB DNL contour. The map below reflects contour boundaries for 65dB, 70dB, and 75dB. MSN received the FAA Record of Approval (ROA) for the NCP on July 10, 2026, including approval of the SIP as a Land Use (LU) mitigation measure. The ROA notes that periodic NEM updates will be required to reflect evolving airport conditions, which may affect SIP eligibility determinations over time. Implementation of the SIP is expected to occur over multiple years and is dependent on available FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding. Program initiation is anticipated in 2027, beginning with identification of eligible properties and confirmation of eligibility based on FAA criteria, including acoustical testing. This effort will reference a pilot phase conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs (WI‑DMA), but will be reevaluated to ensure consistency with FAA eligibility requirements which includes completing the SIP processes, documentation, and completion of preconstruction and postconstruction activities. Once a limited number of Phase 1 properties are confirmed eligible -- design development, bidding, and contractor selection will follow with construction expected to begin in late 2027 or early 2028. After Phase 1 is complete, the selected consultant will continue implementation across remaining eligible properties throughout the five‑year term, subject to FAA grant availability and future FAA‑accepted NEM updates. The SIP requires that treated homes achieve an interior noise level reduction of at least 5dB and an average interior level below 45dB. Treatment generally includes upgrades to primary living spaces and may consist of: Window and Door Replacement Caulking Weather-Stripping Installing Central-Air Ventilation (If the structure does not already have a central air ventilation system. Intent is to allow windows can be kept closed) The selected Firm will be responsible for developing and completing the implementation program, including necessary program materials, and then producing a complete design and bid package, including plans, elevations, sections, details, and specifications for all components to be upgraded as part of the program.