DETROIT – Detroit neighbors in West Village are once again complaining about noise they say is coming from a Riverview Health rehab center on Jefferson Avenue, this time from the facility’s HVAC system.
The complaints follow a recent dispute over a noisy temporary boiler.
Earlier this year, Detroit’s Buildings, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department issued thousands of dollars in fines tied to that boiler. After several weeks, it was removed.
But neighbors say the sound from the HVAC system began on Memorial Day and has persisted, adding to what they describe as an ongoing issue for years.
“They turned it on on Memorial Day, and it started just immediately emitting this high-pitched, horrible sound, but the overall issue of this loud noise coming from their HVAC has been going on for the last three or four years,” Stephanie Gianino said.
Residents say the noise is constant and is disrupting daily life inside and outside their homes.
“It’s 24/7; there’s no reprieve from the noise,” Gianino said. “We can’t enjoy our backyard or even be in our front yard. We can hear it in every room in our house with the doors and windows closed.”
Jennie Mancuso said the timing makes it especially frustrating.
“It’s the best time of year in Michigan, and it’s really sad that we have to be stuck inside because of it,” Mancuso said.
Kelly Berard, an attorney representing Riverview Health, said the company believes there is no issue with the HVAC system.
“There have been inspectors out to the property to address the complaints the neighbor has made directly to the city, and we have not been informed of any violation, or pending violation,” Berard told Local 4.
However, the city says the facility is in violation. BSEED Director Dave Bell said in a statement that the city is preparing to file a lawsuit.
“We understand that there’s a problem, and the quality of life of our residents in the area is a priority,” Bell said. “The issue was resolved last fall and has returned. We will be filing a nuisance complaint in Circuit Court by Monday.”
Neighbors say they want a resolution as quickly as possible.
“You can clearly hear the sound, and it’s very disruptive,” Jason Gilmore said. “It’s really impactful to our quality of life, and we’d like to have a resolution sooner rather than later.”
Berard provided the following statement to Local 4 on behalf of Riverview Health:
“Riverview Health continues to cooperate with representatives of the City who have responded to the latest noise concerns raised by a neighbor.
Riverview’s top priority remains the care and comfort of its residents, and it is committed to operating responsibly.
Following recent site visits by City representatives, Riverview has not received notice from the City of any violation or non-compliance with respect to this matter."
Riverview Health