Universal Studios Execs Promise New Sound Barrier To Reduce Rollercoaster Noise; Angry Residents At Community Meeting Demand Fast Fix

Over 350 residents of the Toluca Lake neighbourhood attended a closed meeting at Universal Studios to demand action on noise pollution from the park's new Fast & Furious rollercoaster, which opened in mid-September. The meeting became heated as neighbours aired grievances over constant screaming sounds, presenting data suggesting approximately 365,000 screams annually and citing public health concerns from chronic noise exposure.

Universal Studios executives promised a temporary sound-absorbing barrier containing over 1,900 square feet of material, with installation scheduled for 1 October, alongside restrictions prohibiting coaster operation between 8 and 9 a.m. until the end of the year. The company rejected alternative solutions such as requiring riders to wear helmets or enclosing individual cars due to safety concerns, whilst some residents, including Roy P. Disney, argued the noise violates the park's land usage permits.