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Transit Line Noise and Vibration Assessments
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Staiano Engineering (SEI) has been responsible for the assessment of the noise and vibration exposures associated with a number of proposed transit projects with light rail, bus rapid transit (BRT), and conventional bus vehicle alternatives. SEI performed noise and vibration measurements to document the existing ambient conditions along rights-of-way. Short-term sound levels were sampled repetitively at various times of day with an observer in attendance supplemented with untended, multi-day monitoring performed at a subset of the locations. SEI similarly conducted measurements of ambient ground vibration. Vehicle noise emission testing of rail vehicles—both on tangent track and in tight-radius curves—and diesel buses was performed. SEI assessed noise exposures with respect to FTA and APTA criteria, evaluated various mitigation options, and designed noise barrier walls at impacted receptors. Based upon the annoyance reactions of visitors to United States National Parks, SEI estimated the potential for vehicle pass-by noise impacts to recreational land uses. Areas at risk for wheel squeal and groundborne vibration impacts were identified. SEI performed various special investigations, such as to verify the accuracy of noise predictions and evaluate system performance over time. SEI met with the public to present assessment findings, and to listen and respond to community concerns.
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