The I-95/Scudder
Falls Bridge Improvement Project includes a noise impact evaluation being conducted
in accordance with the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) guidelines
and policies. Noise monitoring is underway to document existing noise levels
and to calibrate predictive noise models that will be used to predict future
noise levels for the project alternatives. If noise levels are predicted to
exceed established FHWA criteria, then the consultant team will evaluate the
feasibility and effectiveness of noise mitigation. One of the more common noise
mitigation measures used in association with highways is a noise barrier, or
sound wall. The size, location, and extent of barriers are based on the existing
noise levels, predicted noise levels, and the predicted effectiveness of the
barrier.