Acoustics and Your Environment--The Basics of Sound and Highway Traffic Noise. (Status: completed, Completed: March 1999)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. DTS-34-HW966-LR1, NTIS No. AVA20426VNB1.
Abstract
This research developed a videotape that discusses the principles of sound and highway traffic noise. Information is presented simply in a nontechnical manner so that the videotape can be used as an educational tool for the general public. It can also be used to train highway traffic noise analysts.
For more information:
Steve Ronning, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2078; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Steven.ronning@fhwa.dot.gov.

Development of National Reference Energy Mean Emission Levels for FHWA Traffic Noise Model, Version 1.0. (Status: completed, Completed: 1995)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA R & D Pooled Fund Study
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-PD-96-008 DOTVNTSCFHWA96-2, NTIS No. PB96147780.
Abstract
During the period July 1993 through November 1995 the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center conducted the National Pooled-Fund Study (NPFS) "Highway Noise Model Data Base Development." This report presents the results of the study, including the measurement, data reduction, and analysis procedures used to develop the Data Base, which is the foundation of the FHWA Traffic Noise Model, Version 1.0.
For more information:
Steve Ronning, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2078; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Steven.ronning@fhwa.dot.gov.

Highway Noise Barrier Design Package. (Status: completed, Completed: 2000)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
NTIS No. PB2000105872 (manual); AVA20862VNB1 (video); AVA20863CDRM (CD-ROM)
Abstract
The highway noise barrier design package includes (1) a noise barrier design manual entitled "FHWA Highway Noise Barrier Design Handbook;" (2) an accompanying 40-minute videotape which highlights all the facets of barrier design included in the manual; and (3) a CD-Rom which contains an extensive noise barrier design photographic library, an electronic copy of all written State noise policies, and an electronic copy of the noise barrier design manual. This 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. It 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.
For more information:
Steve Ronning, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2078; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Steven.ronning@fhwa.dot.gov.

Highway Noise Barriers: Performance, Maintenance, and Safety. (Status: completed, Completed: 1996)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
NTIS No. AVA19985VNB1.
Abstract
This videotape, approximately 43 minutes in length, is an educational tool that illustrates many different aspects of highway noise barriers. The videotape covers (1) basic acoustics; (2) barrier performance; (3) types of barriers; (4) wall barrier materials; (5) barrier maintenance concerns; and (6) barrier safety concerns.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

Improvement of the FHWA Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM). (Status: ongoing,
Abstract
Verification of the FHWA TNM, released in March 1998, was limited; i.e., it included three comparisons with point-source geometry and two comparisons of in-situ measurements of barrier performance along actual highways. This multiyear research study will validate all aspects of the model. The initial phase of validation will include the elements of the model most often used in highway traffic noise analyses; validation of all other elements will follow. Field measurements made to support the model validation will be used to begin study of atmospheric effects on the propagation of highway traffic noise, effects which may be included in the FHWA TNM in the future. The research study will also address problems and inconveniences users have identified subsequent to the release of the FHWA TNM, as well as incorporate improvements in the model's graphical user interface. An interim upgrade of the FHWA TNM was released in September 2000; a final upgrade should be released during 2002.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

Interrupted Flow Reference Energy Mean Emission Levels for the FHWA Traffic Noise Model. (Status: completed, Completed: 1997)
Performer(s):
Vanderbilt University
Sponsor(s):
FHWA R & D Pooled Fund Study
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 703-487-4650; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. DOTFHWA-PD-97-019 DOTVNTSC-FHWA-97-1, NTIS No. PB97138226.
Abstract
During the period July 1993 through November 1995, the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center conducted the National Pooled-Fund Study (NPFS) "Highway Noise Model Data Base Development." This report presents the results of one portion of the study--the measurement, data reduction, and analysis of individual vehicle sound level and speed data for interrupted flow traffic (accelerating from stop signs, toll booths, and on-highway ramps). Also presented is the development of regression equations for the resulting Reference Energy Mean Emission Levels (REMELs) as a function of vehicle speed and vehicle type. These REMELs are part of the database upon which the FHWA Traffic Noise Model, Version 1.0, is based.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

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Measurement of Highway-Related Noise. (Status: completed, Completed: 1996)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-PD-96-046 DOT-VNTSC-FHWA-96-5, NTIS No. PB97120489.
Abstract
This report reflects substantial improvements and changes in highway-related noise measurement technologies that evolved subsequent to the 1981 publication, "Sound Procedures for Measuring Highway Noise." The report documents the recommended procedures for the measurement of (1) existing noise; (2) vehicle noise emissions; (3) barrier insertion loss; (4) construction equipment noise; (5) noise reduction due to buildings; and (6) occupational noise exposure.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

Parallel Barrier Effectiveness--Dulles Noise Barrier Project. (Status: completed, Completed: 1990)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA R & D Pooled Fund Study
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-RD-90-105 DOT-TSC-FHWA-90-1, NTIS No. PB90252388.
Abstract
This report presents the results of testing on experimental parallel noise barriers constructed at a site at Dulles International Airport in Chantilly, Virginia. The study focused on the use of absorptive treatment and tilting as a means of improving the insertion loss of two parallel barriers. It also evaluated the feasibility of modeling a moving point source with an artificial fixed-point source. This is the first of three studies. The second is "Parallel Barrier Effectiveness Under Free-Flowing Traffic Conditions." The third is "Performance Evaluation of Experimental Highway Noise Barriers."
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Environment@fhwa.dot.gov.

Parallel Barrier Effectiveness Under Free-Flowing Traffic Conditions. (Status: completed, Completed: 1992)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA R & D Pooled Fund Study
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-RD-92-068 DOT-VNTSC-FHWA-92-1, NTIS No. PB92203850.
Abstract
This report presents the results of a measurement study performed at a highway noise barrier site located along I-495 in Montgomery County, Maryland. The objective of the study was to measure the degradation in acoustic performance of a highway noise barrier due to the close proximity of a parallel barrier on the opposite side of the roadway. This is the second of three studies. The first one is "Parallel Barrier Effectiveness -- Dulles Noise Barrier Project"; the third is "Performance Evaluation of Experimental Highway Noise Barriers."
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Environment@fhwa.dot.gov.

Performance Evaluation of Experimental Highway Noise Barriers. (Status: completed, Completed: 1994)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA R & D Pooled Fund Study
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, VA 22161. Tel: 800-553-6847; Fax: 703-605-6900; Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-RD-94-093 DOT-VNTSC-FHWA-94-16, NTIS No. PB95216909 PB94213626.
Abstract
During the period October 1986 though April 1994, the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center conducted the National Pooled-Fund Study (NPFS) "Evaluation of Performance of Experimental Highway Noise Barriers." Two other reports--"Parallel Noise Barrier Effectiveness" and "Parallel Barrier Effectiveness Under Free Flowing Traffic Conditions" support the NPFS. This report is the third, and final, publication supporting the NPFS. It presents the results of additional analyses of previously collected data and summarizes the findings of the multiyear study.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM)--Tables for Simple Applications. (Status: completed, Completed: Oct. 1998)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
Robert Armstrong. U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20, 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov;
Abstract
This research developed tables that can be used to look up calculated traffic noise levels based on the new-generation FHWA Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM). The tables are available in both diskette and hardcopy format, so that the use of a computer to obtain calculated noise levels is not required. The tables can be used for screening traffic noise analyses and simple applications of the FHWA TNM.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM), Version 1.0. (Status: completed, Completed: 1998)
Performer(s):
Volpe National Transportation Systems Center
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
McTrans Center. McTrans Center, Univ. of Florida, 512 Weil Hall, P.O. Box 116585, Gainesville, FL 32611-6585. Tel: 352-392-0378 x242; Fax: 352-392-3224; Email: Debbie@ce.ufl.edu;
Abstract
The FHWA TNM, Version 1.0, is a new-generation highway traffic noise prediction model. It calculates traffic noise levels using totally new acoustical algorithms, as well as newly-measured emission levels for five standard vehicle types, i.e., automobiles, medium trucks, heavy trucks, buses, and motorcycles. The calculations are based on one-third octave-band analysis and subsource heights for trucks. The package includes the software, a user's guide, a technical manual, and CD-ROM trainer.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.