Traffic Noise Policies

How does CTDOT determine if a noise barrier wall should be constructed?

CTDOT performs noise analyses within the limits of federally funded projects defined as "Type I" under federal regulations to determine if noise abatement is warranted, reasonable, and feasible in accordance with CTDOT’s Noise Policy. Type I projects are those that would meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Construction of a new highway
• Substantial vertical or horizontal alteration of a highway
• The addition of a through-traffic lane(s)
• The addition of an auxiliary lane in excess of 2,500 ft
• The addition or relocation of interchange lanes or ramps
• Restriping existing pavement for the purpose of adding a through-traffic lane or an auxiliary lane in excess of 2,500 ft
• The addition or substantial alteration of a weigh station, rest stop, or ride-share lot

A noise barrier wall is proposed when a noise impact is predicted to occur as a result of a Type I project and the noise barrier wall is found to be feasible and reasonable. CTDOT considers engineering constraints, acoustical performance, public opinion, and final cost in determining if a noise barrier wall is reasonable and feasible to incorporate into a project.

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Regulation: Procedures for Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise and Construction Noise.

CTDOT’s Highway Traffic Noise Abatement Policy for Projects Funded by the FHWA