NOISE AESTHETIC SURVEY
On June 17, 2021, INDOT and Superior Construction hosted a virtual meeting for residents potentially impacted by noise increases from the North Split project to discuss noise barrier aesthetics, including barrier texture and color.
Click the image below to watch the video.
Impacted residents received a packet, including a survey card, from the North Split project team in early June. The survey cards are due June 28, 2021.
For questions about the noise barrier design voting process, please contact Erica Johnson, North Split Communications Liaison, at (317) 917-5337 or at info@northsplit.com.
NOISE REDUCTION FEATURES
The Traffic Noise Model used in the North Split noise analysis predicts a reduction in noise at most locations even if no noise barriers are installed. This modeled reduction in noise levels is primarily the result of the elevation and realignment of proposed roadways and replacement of guardrail with concrete safety barriers. To reduce noise levels further, INDOT is incorporating additional design features that are not recognized in the Traffic Noise Model. These features include:
- “Next Generation” Pavement* – This new paving technique is designed specifically to reduce tire noise through the use of longitudinal grooves. Although results vary based on tire manufacturer, existing pavement type and condition, and other factors, recent studies have shown that next generation pavement can reduce tire noise levels by 3 to 5 decibels or more.
- Continuous Reinforced Concrete Pavement – This paving technique eliminates the need for transverse joints, which are the cause of rhythmic sound patterns of tires passing over traditional concrete roadways.
- Jointless Concrete Bridges – This design eliminates the open joints at the end of bridges, which are the cause of the “banging” sounds typically heard at older bridges such as those currently existing in the project area.
NOISE BARRIERS RECOMMENDED FOR CONSTRUCTION
The following potential noise barriers are recommended for construction:
- NB3E: Westbound I-70, along the edge of the north shoulder from Valley Avenue to Commerce Avenue, near the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood
- NB3W: Westbound I-70, along the edge of the north shoulder from Commerce Avenue to Lewis Street, near the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood
Factors considered in recommending these noise barriers are as follows:
- Survey of Benefited Receptors – In accordance with the INDOT Noise Policy, surveys were sent to obtain the views of benefited receptors (property owners and residents) and a public meeting was held in the adjacent neighborhood to describe the results of the noise analysis and encourage survey response. Social media posts and Listserv emails were sent, and door hangers were hung on doors of benefited receptors to encourage completion of the surveys and attendance at the public meetings. Forty-eight percent (48%) of NB3E benefited receptors responded, with 93% expressing support. Seventy-eight percent (78%) of NB3W benefited receptors responded, with 100% expressing support.
- Other Considerations – According to the INDOT Noise Policy, a re-evaluation of the noise analysis will occur during final design. If it is determined that conditions have changed such that noise abatement is not feasible and reasonable, the abatement measures might not be provided.
See the Traffic Noise Technical Report
See additional information about the noise study and survey