June 24, 2023, published by Scott Axelrod
Some of the most familiar sounds of New York City might start sounding a bit different if a new bill passes.
A bill reintroduced by Councilwomen Carlina Rivera (D-Lower East Side) and Gale Brewer (D-Upper West Side), would lower the siren sounds of emergency vehicles by 30 decibels, down to 90 decibels, the New York Post reported.
The bill would also change the rhythm and pitch of the sirens to an alternating frequency, similar to what is commonly heard in European cities.
Proponents of the bill believe the noise reduction could potentially lead to fewer cases of high blood pressure and heart disease, said the Post. Another bonus: The European-style siren would lead to less noise pollution.