A comprehensive noise study for the city of Lincoln, Nebraska

Abstract

A comprehensive noise study to define the soundscape of the city of Lincoln, NE, has been undertaken by the students enrolled in the Acoustics Program at Columbia College, Chicago. The study includes (1) a global review of best practices in the field of environmental noise control using a perspective emphasizing close attention to effective and proven solutions that can be implemented via policies and effective legislation, (2) the creation of a large-scale outdoor noise propagation computer model that incorporates all primary traffic arterial and readily identifiable noise sources, (3) a comprehensive large-scale testing of noise levels using specially modified noise dosimeters allowing for determination of Leq, and Ldn over 24-h intervals, and (4) a large scale attitudinal survey of the population using a web-based survey engine that allows for the geographical location of the respondents. The results of the survey are used to refine the density of the test locations and the scale resolution of the software model, as well as to provide city and county officials with a targeted course of action pertaining to regulations and noise abatement policies. The project is expected to last 3 years with up to 1200 test locations being analyzed.

Influence of a wearer’s voice on noise dosimeter measurements

“…[1][2][3][4][5] Although dosimeters are a convenient means of monitoring sound levels experienced by an individual, dosimeter levels may not be characteristic of the background noise environment due to the influence of the wearer's voice at such a close proximity. Being able to account for the effects of a wearer's voice would allow for the continued use of dosimeters to characterize medium-level noise environments even when influenced by a wearer's voice.…”