TORONTO — PortsToronto’s new Ground Run-up Enclosure (GRE) at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is designed to dampen aircraft engine noise and represents a key component in the airport’s Noise Mitigation Program.

PortsToronto says the three-sided, 14 metre high GRE will dampen the noise impact of ground engine run-ups mandated by Transport Canada following engine maintenance to ensure safety. These engine run-ups have been cited by the community as a primary source of noise. Construction began in fall 2016 and the project cost $9 million, paid for by PortsToronto. The enclosure absorbs noise with specialized acoustic panels.

he Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport joins PortsToronto CEO Geoffrey Wilson and PortsToronto Chair Robert Poirier to cut the ribbon to officially open the new Ground Run-Up Enclosure at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

The Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport joins PortsToronto CEO Geoffrey Wilson and Gene Cabral, Executive Vice President of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport on a tour of the new Ground Run-Up Enclosure.

“Aircraft noise is a complicated issue faced by airports and communities, one that must be managed while ensuring that aviation safety remains paramount. As our cities grow and airports become a part of our neighborhoods, it’s important that we work together to ensure a balance between the important economic role that airports play, with the well-being of our communities,” said Minister of Transport Marc Garneau, in attendance at the GRE’s launch.

The GRE’s completion marks another milestone in the Billy Bishop Airport Airfield Project, a three-year rehabilitation initiative currently underway at Billy Bishop Airport to modernize the airport. Some 2.7 million passengers who travel through the airport each year.