Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Reduce Noise from Nearby Interstate Highways in Underserved Neighborhoods

Resources / Press Share on Congresswoman Nikema Williams Introduces Legislation to Reduce Noise from Nearby Interstate Highways in Underserved Neighborhoods May 13, 2026 Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) reintroduced the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act , legislation to give communities the ability to build noise barriers along existing federal interstate highways. Currently, federal funds cannot be used for noise barriers. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act allows Highway Trust Fund dollars to be used to build noise barriers in residential areas built before the interstates that are now impacting them. Communities will also have the power to create noise barriers that are aesthetically pleasing and can be used for dual purposes, such as hosting broadband infrastructure or solar panels. Highways I-20, I-75, I-85, and I-285 are some of the loudest, most disruptive interstates in the country and all run through neighborhoods in Georgia’s Fifth Congressional District. Congresswoman Williams introduced similar legislation in the 117th and 118th Congress. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) is co-leading the introduction of the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act . Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) said: “Constituents and elected officials have made it clear: we must address the disruptions caused by congested highways. For too many communities—particularly those intentionally divided by the construction of our interstate system—these roads have long brought not just displacement, but lasting harm. Today, the constant noise and pollution from those same highways continue to burden the neighborhoods they cut through and more. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act is a simple solution that allows existing federal resources to be used for desperately needed noise barriers. This is exactly how infrastructure investments should be made: tailored to the needs of communities. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would bring meaningful relief from the noise and air pollution affecting families living near our interstate highways.” Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said: “Far too many Americans have come to accept highway noise as the grating soundtrack of their lives. A cacophony of car horns, emergency vehicle sirens, and truck engines fills communities all along the I-95 corridor in Southwestern Connecticut, reducing my constituents’ quality of life. The Negating Neighborhood Noise Act would empower localities to build noise barriers of their choosing with federal funds so residents impacted by road racket can finally get some peace and quiet.” Endorsing Organizations: Quiet Communities Click here to read the text of the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act. Click here to read the one-pager on the Negating Neighborhood Noise Act. Share on