New York City western rail yard construction noise study.

Abstract

This paper will describe the technical approach, regulatory environment, and outcome of a construction noise study performed on behalf of a $2.5 billion private development to be built over the Western Rail Yards in Manhattan. Community noise modeling for the 9 year project was performed in accordance with New York City Environmental Quality Review (CEQR) Manual requirements using the CADNA‐A and FHWA TNM models. The on‐site noise analysis accounted for the staggered schedule of excavation, foundation laying, erection, and finishing of eight high rise residential and commercial buildings. Construction equipment source emissions used in the CADNA‐A model were taken from the FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model (RCNM) and the NYC DEP Construction Noise Regulations (Local Law 113, Chap. 28). Project‐related trucking (mobile) noise was evaluated using the TNM model. Seventeen multi‐story noise receptor locations surrounding the development site were evaluated with ambient noise measurements and predictive noise modeling. A construction vibration assessment for the elevated High Line park was also conducted. The results indicated that noise exceedance conditions were expected from pile driving, hoe ramming, and jackhammering operations during daytime, nighttime, and weekend periods, so noise mitigation measures were developed and incorporated into the project’s construction permit.