Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the traffic noise barrier on I 471 in Campbell County, Kentucky. Since the barrier coincided with construction of I 471, it was necessary to predict noise levels that would exist if no barrier were present utilizing the FHWA STAMINA 2.0 computer model. This was compared to actual noise level measurements at the barrier site to determine the barrier insertion loss.

After calibration of the STAMINA 2.0 model, noise measurements were conducted at 39 receiver locations during off-peak and peak traffic conditions. The noise barrier reduced the noise level reaching adjacent residences substantially. Twenty-one residences (20 percent of the total in the study area) experienced a peak L10 insertion loss of 10 dBA or more, while another 63 residences (58 percent) were estimated as receiving an insertion loss of 5.0 to 9.9 dBA.

Comparison of insertion loss using levels predicted by the STAMINA 2.0 model with the barrier in place and measured levels were very close. Analyses indicated that insertion loss values predicted by the STAMINA 2.0 model will be achieved by the noise barrier .

A survey of community perception of the noise barrier was performed. Of 103 questionnaires delivered, 66 (64 percent) were returned. The community perception of the barrier was favorable, as 64 percent of the respondents generally liked the noise barrier and 95 percent felt it was effective in reducing traffic noise.

Report Date

5-1985

Report Number

UKTRP-85-15

Digital Object Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.13023/KTC.RR.1985.15

Notes

The contents of this report reflect the views of the authors who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, nor the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation.

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