Residents of North Tonawanda are facing sleepless nights and a decline in their quality of life due to persistent noise pollution caused by Digihost, a blockchain technology company specializing in crypto mining. The noise, believed to originate from the large fans used to cool down the bitcoin-mining computers in the company's buildings on Erie Avenue, has been a source of frustration for the community for over two years.
The noise emitted by the Digihost facility is not only disruptive but also inconsistent, often becoming louder during the night. This constant disturbance has forced residents to close their windows on hot days, abandon their backyards, and even witness changes in their pets' behavior. Experts have warned that this noise pollution is likely detrimental to the health and well-being of the affected individuals.
Despite numerous complaints from residents, the city of North Tonawanda has failed to take effective action to enforce its noise ordinance against Digihost.
The ordinance is designed to protect the public health, comfort, convenience, safety, welfare, and prosperity of the community, including ensuring peace and quiet. City officials have cited a lack of equipment and resources as the reason for their inaction.
Decibel level readings taken by the police department in May suggest that Digihost may have violated the noise ordinance. However, the city attorney, Edward Zebulske, recently explained that the equipment required for admissible evidence in court is expensive and necessitates specialized training.
The absence of any meaningful measures to mitigate the noise pollution from the Digihost facility has left nearby residents vulnerable to potential health risks. In response, Digihost has applied for a permit to construct an acoustic barrier on their property, aiming to reduce the noise reaching neighboring homes. However, residents have expressed skepticism as a similar wall already in place has proven ineffective in dampening the sound.
Noise pollution, even at levels that do not cause hearing loss, can have significant long-term consequences on health. The constant annoyance and disruption caused by the noise from the Digihost facility have been reported to disturb sleep and penetrate through walls and windows.
This kind of stimulation can lead to various risk factors, including cardiovascular and mental health-related outcomes such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, immune response dysregulation, cardiovascular-related mortality, hypertension, and strokes.
The residents of North Tonawanda are eagerly awaiting action from the city to address the noise pollution issue and protect their well-being. The enforcement of the noise ordinance and the implementation of effective measures by Digihost are crucial steps towards restoring peace and quiet in the community.