Comparison of train noise and vibration measurements with U.S. Department of Transportation model predictions

Abstract

Wayside noise and ground-borne vibration measurements of freight and light rail train operations were carried out in Denver, CO in support of the Burnham Yard Transportation Planning Study being pursued by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). This study was intended to evaluate various track layout alternatives for the Consolidated Main Line (CML) freight railroad alignment and enhancement of Regional Transportation District (RTD) light rail operations while maintaining options for Front Range Passenger Rail (FRPR) within Burnham Yard and the surrounding areas. The objective of the measurements was to compare measured train noise and vibration levels with predictions using models sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) in order to validate the use of these models to assess the noise and vibration impacts of the project alternatives. The models included the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Chicago Rail Efficiency And Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) freight noise model, the FRA Horn Noise Model, and the models included in the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual. Based on a comparison of measured and modeled results, it was concluded that the USDOT models could be used to assess noise and vibration from train operations in the Burnham Yard Study Area.