Transit noise and community choices.

Abstract

Transit innovations and expansions are a central part of initiatives to construct more livable communities. As part of the National Environmental Policy Act process, public involvement is required and public feedback and support are essential for projects to move forward. Generally, accessibility improvements are welcomed by the public, but the potential for increased noise is often met with opposition—and concerns about transit noise can stifle initiatives. One way to build community acceptance is to accurately compare transit options. The authors explain how community groups and decision makers in Florida responded to a presentation system providing direct acoustic experience of over a dozen transit modes, from light rail guideway transit to commuter railways. The goal of the acoustic presentation was to compare existing freight train sound levels to those of an array of transit technologies. The audio‐visual presentation included interactive videos and computer animations, allowing proposed transit modes to be heard at different distances and in outdoor or indoor settings.