Entering the Quiet Zone: Noise Compatible Land Use Planning
Residential Strategies
In many areas of the country, competitive use of land means that residential
areas are being developed next to highways. This proximity is a benefit
for residents, because it helps increase their mobility.
Today many cities feature well-designed residential developments near
highways. One example is Eugene, Oregon. Community leaders in Eugene are
aware of the impact of noise pollution on adjacent residential development.
While no official rules govern residential development near major arterials
in Eugene, developers consistently work to reduce the negative impacts
of noise from nearby roadways and freeways. Open space buffers are widely
used along I-5, a north-south arterial in the city's east side.
Another important method of noise abatement used in Eugene involves the
positioning and design of buildings. Along I-5, developers designed multi-family
buildings with no windows on the sides facing highways. One development
of townhomes is uniquely constructed to curb the noise from I-5, which
is directly behind the units. In addition to the solid blocks used as
the outside building surface, several layers of high quality, sound-absorbent
insulation almost eliminates roadway noise from the interior of the townhomes.
Also, a row of existing trees was left to serve as a visual buffer.
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Exterior wall of townhomes (seen between the trees) is designed
to reduce effect of highway traffic noise. Trees and vegetation act
as a visual buffer. |
Side and rear view of townhomes. Rear wall has special insulation;
in addition to solid surface. |
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