Noise level in the vicinity of signalized roundabouts

Abstract

The analysis, assessment and estimation of noise levels in the vicinity of intersections is a more complex problem than a similar analysis for roads and streets. This is due to the varied geometry of the intersections, differences in the loads of individual movements, participation of heavy vehicles and mass transport vehicles, as well as the various types of traffic management and traffic control. This article analyses the influence of intersection type and traffic characteristics on the noise levels in the vicinity of classic channelized intersections with signalization, roundabouts and signalized roundabouts. Based on the conducted measurements, it has been established that, with comparable traffic parameters and the same distance from the geometric centre of the intersection, the LAeq value for signalized roundabouts is 2.5–10.8dB higher in comparison to classic channelized intersections with signalization and 3.3–6.7dB higher in relations to the analysed roundabout. Additionally the differences between LAeq levels at individual entries at the same signalized roundabouts may reach the value of approximately 4.5dB. Such situation is influenced by differences in the intersection geometry, diameter of the intersection’s central island, traffic flow type, traffic management at the entries and traffic volume, especially the amount and traffic movements of multiple axle heavy vehicles. These factors have been analysed in detail in relation to signalized roundabouts in this paper.