Soundscape design applications for transportation noise.

Abstract

Three case studies are presented that demonstrate soundscape methods for assessing noise impacts and proposed mitigation strategies for train, traffic, and rail noise impacts. Comparisons among time average measures short term measurements of specific acoustic events are presented. One is a large housing project located adjacent to a major rail line. The soundscape methods allowed the designers to auralize the results of proposed noise mitigation strategies for clients to make informed decisions about the acoustical feasibility of developing the site. Second is a case study of aircraft noise impacts on a glass curtain wall luxury condominium project located in the flight path of a major urban airport. Soundscape methods were used to work with the developers to assess strategies for the reduction in aircraft noise into living units associated with the decision to enhance glazing systems for the project. Third is a case study of planning for noise mitigation of road traffic noise for future developments at the time of initial permitting for projects. A framework for long term planning strategies for controlling incremental noise impacts as they occur was developed for a growing medium size city adjoined by rural and agricultural land.