Highway Traffic Noise Products
General - Noise Barriers - Additional Information on Mitigation - Noise Barrier Research - Products of Other Organizations
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General
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Highway Traffic Noise
Abstract: This pamphlet describes some of the fundamentals of highway traffic noise and the noise requirements in the highway program. It is intended for the general public, elected officials, and anyone interested in learning about the basics of highway traffic noise.
Author: FHWA, Edited by Washington State Department of Transportation
Publication Year: 1992 (updated to the the 1995 TNM vehicle emission levels) - Synthesis of Noise Effects on Wildlife Populations
Also available in PDF format (292 KB)
Date: September 8, 2004
Abstract: This report contains a summary of ongoing work on the effects of noise on wildlife populations. There is a paucity of information on the response of invertebrates to noise, particularly the levels likely to be encountered along roads. Significant populations of some species are found along rights-of-way, although others such as aquatic forms may be adversely affected whether by the road itself or by noise is unclear. Existing information (although incomplete) would suggest that fish are unlikely to be adversely affected by noise levels from road. Reptiles and amphibians show some barrier effect due to roads, but there is no clear evidence of a noise effect alone. Recent work has suggested that behavior in burrowing toads may be affected by noise and this will require further study. Birds have received the most study and in some cases are negatively affected both in numbers and in breeding by the proximity to roads. In other cases the effect is the opposite and there are reports of many species using roadside habitat in some areas. Large mammals may be repelled by noise, although in most cases the effect appears to be slight to moderate. Small mammals do not appear to be adversely affected by road noise occurring in significant numbers in rights-of-way. There appears to be a physical barrier effect of roads for many mammals. Recommendations for future study are included.
Noise Barriers
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Summary of Noise Barriers Constructed by December 31, 2004
Abstract: This paper contains a listing of all noise barriers constructed with highway program monies since 1973, as reported by State highway agencies. The listing is updated every three years and contains information on length, height, cost, material, location, and year constructed for each State. It is intended for all audiences.
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 2006
Distribution Memorandum - Date: May 25, 2006 -
Highway Traffic Noise Barrier Construction Trends
Abstract: Through the end of 2004, forty-four State DOTs and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico have constructed over 2,205 linear miles of barriers at a cost of over $2.6 billion ($3.4 billion in 2004 dollars) This paper presents a brief analysis of the data on these barriers. (For the data please consult the detailed barrier listing, Summary of Noise Barriers Constructed by December 31, 2004)
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 2006
Distribution Memorandum - Date: May 25, 2006 -
Highway Traffic Noise Barrier Materials and Cost By State
Abstract: State DOTs have constructed noise barriers from earth, masonry block, brick, concrete, metal, wood, other materials (e.g., polyurethane), and combinations of materials. This paper contains an analysis of data on noise barrier materials, listed by each state that has utilized a specific material type. (For the data please consult the detailed barrier listing, Summary of Noise Barriers Constructed by December 31, 2004)
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 2006
Distribution Memorandum - Date: October 25, 2006 -
Keeping the Noise Down, Highway Traffic Noise Barriers HTML or PDF (1.3 MB)
Abstract: This brochure presents very basic information on noise barriers, i.e., it discusses the questions a person might normally ask about noise barriers. The brochure addresses the following 11 questions:- What are noise barriers?
- When are noise barriers required?
- How is a noise barrier funded?
- How does a noise barrier work?
- What type of material is best for a noise barrier?
- How do people react to noise barriers?
- Are residents' views considered?
- Are motorists' views considered?
- Does construction of a noise barrier increase noise levels on the opposite side of the highway?
- Does construction of noise barriers on both sides of a highway increase noise levels?
- Can trees be planted to act as noise barriers?
It is intended for all audiences.
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 2001 -
Highway Noise Barrier Design Package
Abstract: This package includes:- a noise barrier design manual entitled "FHWA Highway Noise Barrier Design Handbook;"
- an accompanying 40-minute videotape, which highlights all the facets of barrier design included in the manual; and
- a CD-Rom, which contains an extensive noise barrier design photographic library and an electronic copy of the noise barrier design manual.
The package addresses both acoustical and non-acoustical considerations associated with highway noise barrier design. The package provides guidance on how to design a highway noise barrier which fits its surroundings and performs its intended acoustical and structural functions, with a reasonable life-cycle cost. The package also provides a state-of-the-art reference of common concepts, designs, materials, and installation techniques for professional highway engineers and acoustical designers and planners, as well as non-professional community members.
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 2000
Media: Report, videotape, CD-ROM
Distribution Memorandum - Date: August 2, 2000Ordering Information:
National Technical Information Service
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, Virginia 22161
(800) 553-6847 or (703) 605-6000
E-Mail orders may be made at orders@ntis.fedworld.gov -
Highway Noise Barriers: Performance, Maintenance, and Safety
Abstract: This videotape illustrates different aspects of highway traffic noise barriers. It covers the following topics:- basic acoustics;
- barrier performance;
- types of barriers;
- wall barrier materials;
- barrier maintenance concerns; and
- barrier safety concerns.
It is intended for small audiences interested in the details of traffic noise barriers.
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 1996
Media: Videotape
Distribution Memorandum - Date: October 11, 1996Ordering Information:
National Technical Information Service
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, Virginia 22161
(800) 553-6847 or (703) 605-6000
E-Mail orders may be made at orders@ntis.fedworld.gov -
A Guide to Visual Quality in Noise Barrier Design
Abstract: This document introduces the basic principles of visual quality in general terms and illustrates the application of these principles to the design of highway noise barriers. It shows how visual design principles can be incorporated into the design process of highway noise barriers. It is intended for highway designers and others who are concerned with blending the highway into the environment.
Author: FHWA
Publication Year: 1979
Distribution Memorandum - Date: July 13, 1979Ordering Information:
National Technical Information Service
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, Virginia 22161
(800) 553-6847 or (703) 605-6000
E-Mail orders may be made at orders@ntis.fedworld.gov
Additional Information on Mitigation
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"Insulation of Buildings Against Highway Noise" (Tech Share Report No. FHWA-TS-77-202) (FHWA Bulletin) - August 1, 1977.
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A Method to Determine Reasonableness and Feasibility of Noise Abatement at Special Use Locations.
