Fresno West - Environmental Noise
Fresno, CA
Scope of Work
MD Acoustics was hired by De Novo Planning Group to provide a Technical Noise Impact Study for the City of Fresno’s West Area Specific Plan. To establish the acoustic baseline of the 7,077-acre study area, our team conducted four 24-hour long-term measurements and twelve 10-minute short-term noise measurements.
Because the Specific Plan redirects higher-density development to major corridors , we evaluated potential noise impacts from anticipated transportation, stationary, and construction sources. Utilizing SoundPLAN software and the FHWA Traffic Noise Prediction Model , we mapped existing and cumulative future traffic noise contours to ensure proposed land uses comply with the City’s General Plan and CEQA thresholds.
Outcome
Our predictive modeling determined that cumulative future traffic volumes will significantly increase ambient noise levels throughout the Plan Area. Several roadways, such as W. Ashlan Avenue, are projected to experience noise level increases of up to 13.4 dBA CNEL , exposing sensitive land uses to levels exceeding the City’s 65 dBA CNEL exterior compatibility standard.
To mitigate these impacts, MD Acoustics developed programmatic recommendations, including mandatory site-specific acoustical analyses for new development. We provided architectural and site planning strategies, such as up to 15-foot noise barriers, sound-rated windows, and upgraded facade insulation, alongside strict adherence to municipal construction hours to protect the community’s acoustic environment.
Scope of Work
MD Acoustics was hired by De Novo Planning Group to provide a Technical Noise Impact Study for the City of Fresno’s West Area Specific Plan. To establish the acoustic baseline of the 7,077-acre study area, our team conducted four 24-hour long-term measurements and twelve 10-minute short-term noise measurements.
Because the Specific Plan redirects higher-density development to major corridors , we evaluated potential noise impacts from anticipated transportation, stationary, and construction sources. Utilizing SoundPLAN software and the FHWA Traffic Noise Prediction Model , we mapped existing and cumulative future traffic noise contours to ensure proposed land uses comply with the City’s General Plan and CEQA thresholds.
Outcome
Our predictive modeling determined that cumulative future traffic volumes will significantly increase ambient noise levels throughout the Plan Area. Several roadways, such as W. Ashlan Avenue, are projected to experience noise level increases of up to 13.4 dBA CNEL , exposing sensitive land uses to levels exceeding the City’s 65 dBA CNEL exterior compatibility standard.
To mitigate these impacts, MD Acoustics developed programmatic recommendations, including mandatory site-specific acoustical analyses for new development. We provided architectural and site planning strategies, such as up to 15-foot noise barriers, sound-rated windows, and upgraded facade insulation, alongside strict adherence to municipal construction hours to protect the community’s acoustic environment.
