Community noise monitoring around Universal Studios Hollywood

Abstract

As part of the development agreement/Specific Plan for Universal Studios Hollywood, community noise monitoring is required to maintain acceptable Studio-generated noise levels in the neighborhoods surrounding Universal Studios. Universal Studios operates 24 h a day, operating as both a theme park hosting 9M guests/year and an active film/TV studio covering over 400 acres. Universal Studios' activities generate many different types of noise: crowd screams/cheers, percussive/explosive events as part of filming and the theme park attractions, music from the attractions and filming, and operational noise such as landscaping, set construction, etc. The community noise monitoring is conducted four to six times a year at six residential locations closest to Universal Studios. The monitoring occurs for 24 (continuous) hours, and each monitoring location is staffed for the entire duration so that each noisy event can be noted, characterized, and its source determined (Universal Studios or other non-Universal source). The results of the noise monitoring are compared against the comprehensive Specific Plan noise criteria and a determination of compliance is made. Based on the measurement results, adjustments/modifications to Universal Studios operations, equipment, sound systems, etc. are made to maintain compliance. A discussion of the activities and noise sources, measurement program, and lessons learned will be discussed.