Simulation on implementing noise mitigation measures in a typical urban area

Abstract

Starting from the analysis of a real situation in which the equivalent noise level was measured in a residential area, an urban area with the same characteristics was simulated. The purpose of these tests was not to determine exactly the noise level in the area, but to simulate the introduction of noise mitigation measures, and to highlight the difference between the noise level at the edge of the sidewalk and the level next to the building, at the pedestrian height. Four series of simulations were made. The first series starts from the simple situation (street with 4 traffic bands and tram line), without measures of noise reduction, for which a green area with a height of 1.50 m was implemented, a noise barrier and then both measures. The second series of simulations tests the impact that the reduced capacity of the traffic in the area may have, transforming the street into one with only two traffic bands, the remaining space being given to the sidewalk. To optimize noise mitigation, the same situations were simulated, but with the implementation of a green area of 3.00m height. Thus, it is found that the noise level decreases from 74-76 dB (A) to 58-60 dB (A), meaning a decrease of 16 dB (A). From these simulations it can be concluded that in order to reach a comfortable noise level that respects the maximum admitted level, it is recommended to decrease traffic intensity (through different interventions on road surface capacity, promoting of public transport, etc.), to implement anti-noise barriers of materials with a high sound absorption capacity and a green space with a height that exceeds the height of the anti-noise barrier and has a high density of leaves.