Proactive Noise Avoidance and Mitigation Measures

Avery, Kenneth R; Wyckoff, Mark A; Zwahlen, Tanya M; VanKerkhove, Joseph A · 2006 · ROSA P / South Dakota. Department of Transportation. Office of Research

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Summary

This report addresses the problem of increasing highway traffic noise in South Dakota, which negatively impacts adjacent land uses and communities. The research was motivated by the high cost of noise barriers ($1–4 million per mile) and the need to shift from reactive mitigation to proactive avoidance through shared responsibility between the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) and local governments. The study aimed to equip local agencies with tools for noise-compatible land use planning, recommend design guidelines for SDDOT to minimize noise generation, and define performance measures to assess program effectiveness. The methodology involved a comprehensive review of existing research on pavement noise and rumble strips, interviews with state and local stakeholders, and surveys of other state DOTs to identify best practices. The researchers developed model local regulations, revised SDDOT’s noise policy, and conducted workshops in Sioux Falls and Rapid City to validate findings. A key technical component was the design, development, and testing of GIS-based noise planning tools, including distance and contour calculation extensions for ArcGIS 9.1. These tools were used to generate future-condition noise contours (61, 66, and 71 dBA) for 150 interstate highway segments in South Dakota. The project also produced educational materials, including a DVD, brochure, guidebook, and PowerPoint presentation, to facilitate implementation. Key findings and recommendations include revising SDDOT’s noise policy to define a “substantial increase” in noise as 10–15 dBA, establishing a rating form for determining the reasonableness of noise abatement, and increasing the allowable cost per benefited receiver to the FHWA minimum of $25,000. The study recommended specific pavement surface textures and judicious use of shoulder rumble strips to reduce noise while maintaining safety. It also proposed alternative approaches for local noise-compatible land use planning, integrating noise considerations into zoning, subdivision regulations, and building codes. The GIS tools provided local planners with precise data on noise impact areas, enabling better-informed development decisions. The significance of this research lies in its promotion of a cooperative framework for noise management, reducing the financial burden of noise barriers and preserving quality of life for residents. By providing SDDOT and local governments with practical tools, guidelines, and educational resources, the study supports proactive noise avoidance, reduces annoyance and sleep disturbance, and helps preserve local tax bases by preventing adverse noise impacts on property values. The defined performance measures allow for ongoing evaluation of the program’s effectiveness, ensuring that noise mitigation strategies remain aligned with federal guidelines and local needs.

Key finding

The study developed and validated a comprehensive toolkit including revised noise policies, model ordinances, and GIS planning tools that enable local governments to implement noise-compatible land use planning, thereby reducing reliance on expensive noise barriers.

Methodology

mixed_methods

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• perceptual countermeasures