A Pilot Study on the Environmental Noise of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Projects in Chongqing, China

Abstract

Noise is still a significant problem in urban areas that requires attention. Within the past ten years, urban development has moved to the TOD concept, mainly a mixed-use, high-density, and compact public transportation-oriented area with commercial and residential areas. Due to more functions in the area, the noise is expected to be higher. Despite this, research on environmental noise in the TOD area is still limited. This study will investigate the environmental noise in the outdoor areas of the TOD projects in Chongqing, China, namely U Cheng Paradise Walk and Gaoxin Paradise Walk. This study used a questionnaire as the preliminary study and field measurement to know the existing conditions. Based on the questionnaire survey and sound level measurement, the TOD projects are relatively noisy in the 65-68 dBA range. This result exceeds the noise limit of 60 dBA the Chinese government gave in GB 3096-2008 for mixed-use areas. Noise barrier installation and additional natural sounds can be two of several solutions to improve the existing sound condition in the TOD projects. Further research related to the sound environment of the TOD projects is needed to improve the sound environment quality. Keywords: environmental noise, transit oriented development, outdoor areas, noise limit