TREES: Trimming ups road noise

Concerning the recent tree thinning along Highway 41 north of Rathdrum, it’s a wonderful idea and we applaud the state for making a firebreak along this section of highway. The terrain was an absolute mess of dead branches and trees.

On the flip side, by doing this work, it has eliminated what little sound barrier we as residents have had along this stretch. Fifteen years ago, the traffic along Highway 41 North was minimal, as was the noise. It’s not so much engine and loud exhaust noise as it is the rubber meeting the road.

There is, however, a simple solution to alleviate 80 percent of this noise. Rather than chip seal this surface each time they work it, all that really needs to be done is to asphalt it, which is much quieter.

Come on, state of Idaho, have some consideration for us residents along this stretch who have to put up with this relentless noise pollution from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. each and every day. Let’s blacktop it!

THE DEAN FAMILY

Rathdrum