**Universal Studios Hollywood Installs Additional Sound Barriers Amid Neighbour Complaints**
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Universal Studios Hollywood is set to introduce new sound mitigation measures following complaints from residents of Toluca Lake regarding the noise generated by its latest outdoor attraction, the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster. The theme park, located in Universal City, California, has been facing scrutiny since the coaster began its soft-opening phase on 27 July.
On 10 August, L.A. City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian announced via social media that two additional sound barriers would be constructed to help alleviate concerns from locals. The project’s completion is expected by early September. These sound barriers are intended to address the ongoing noise issues linked to the ride, which has generated significant feedback from the local community.
Residents have reported disturbances primarily arising from the loud screams of riders, a situation that has made life difficult for those living nearby. Rob Cerny, a local resident, expressed his frustration in an interview with the *Los Angeles Times*, stating, “Every minute you hear this big scream. When I got home, my wife was upset. It’s made our backyard unusable.” Such concerns have been echoed by other residents, with Patrick Nazari remarking that the noise can sound alarming, akin to a dire emergency.
In August 2023, Universal’s communication with the Toluca Lake Homeowners Association confirmed that the ride complies with existing sound ordinances. Despite this, the theme park has committed to exploring further options to decrease noise levels experienced by nearby residents. The ongoing technical rehearsals for the attraction have been adjusted to operate during limited hours—9 a.m. to 7 p.m.—as officials continue to monitor sound levels.
Although an official opening date for the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift has yet to be disclosed, the park mentioned that hours would expand to 10 p.m. during its popular Halloween Horror Nights event later this autumn. In an effort to address community concerns, Universal Studios Hollywood has already implemented several noise-reduction strategies, including the use of pea gravel under the ride, a sound wall exceeding 900 feet in length, and half-pipe shields designed to deflect noise away from residential areas.
Interestingly, many Toluca Lake residents assert that the roller coaster itself operates quite quietly; it is the reactions of the guests that trigger noise issues. They argue that the nature of the attraction results in unavoidable sounds from riders, which were not anticipated before its opening. Cerny, reflecting on this, acknowledged that while living adjacent to a theme park comes with expectations of certain noise levels, he noted the significant transformation of Universal over the years. “It was a studio tour place. Now it’s a major thrill theme park. That’s a different deal,” he explained.
As the controversy unfolds, community members continue to voice concerns about the implications of living next to a popular tourist destination. Given the historical context, Cerny has lived in the area for over 30 years, witnessing broad changes in the park’s offerings. The introduction of significant attractions like the Harry Potter and Nintendo-themed areas has contributed to the increasing noise levels, making the once-quiet neighbourhood less tranquil.
A designated webpage created by Universal aims to address community concerns referencing the measures being taken to minimise sound disruption. Nevertheless, residents assert that while they understand living near a theme park may yield some level of noise, the current situation with the roller coaster exceeds what should be expected. As they await the completion of the new sound barriers, many local residents are hopeful for a resolution that allows them to enjoy their homes without the constant interference of ride-related noise.
As the situation develops, Universal Studios Hollywood has been approached for further comments regarding this ongoing issue. The outcome of these sound mitigation efforts will likely have a lasting impact on how the park engages with its surrounding community.