Fermilab

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· Vibration effects on experiments

The accelerator ring, which is the heart of Fermilab, requires precise alignment of the particle beams. Vibration affects the ability to align the beams. Placing another high-speed roadway near the ring will increase the vibration levels at the ring. Fermilab is not only the largest accelerator in the nation, but it also brings several hundred million dollars a year into the local economy. The effects of the increased vibration must be studied to ensure that the ability of Fermilab to perform its research mission is not jeopardized.

· Noise effects on resident scientists in Weston area

Fermilab in part relies on attracting international scientists to work at the lab. These scientists are housed in Fermi Village. The proposed road will run very close to the Village and will lessen the desireability of Fermilab as a place to work.

· East access to Fermilab

The Eola Road extension will cross Batavia Road, which is the east entrance to Fermilab. County officials have stated that there will be no access to Fermilab from Eola Road. How can the two roads cross without allowing traffic to turn from one road to the other? County officials have suggested an overpass as an option. However, if Batavia Road goes over Eola Road, the start of the ramp on the eastern side will be in front of people's homes. If Eola Road goes over Batavia Road, the 4-lane highway will be raised 20 feet into the air. Noise from the road will travel farther, and the unsightliness of the road will be visible from a greater distance.

· Potential limit on future projects

The Eola Road extension will take land away from the Fermilab property, and increase vibration levels in the area. Will this limit the possibilities for future experiments or new research facilities?