The implementation of formal programs for noise compatible land use planning has been limited. However, there are examples where noise compatible land use practices have been used. Commercial entities, industrial space, office parks, and open space are the most common and desirable uses near roadways. These activities, which benefit from locations next to a highway, do not require a quiet ambiance, so highway traffic noise is usually not disruptive.
Important Note:
Federal legislation bans FHWA from participating in construction of most noise barriers related to development or construction next to existing highways.
As vacant land becomes scarcer in many communities, new residential development is frequently constructed adjacent to highways. Modern construction techniques allow residential properties to coexist next to highways, using strategies other than traditional noise barriers.
Illustrations from Eugene, Oregon; Houston, Texas; and Kansas City, Missouri, offer innovative concepts that can be used as models by other communities wanting to apply noise compatible land use planning principles. Houston and Kansas City are typical large urban communities, with populations of 1.7 million and 500,000, respectively. Eugene is a small urban area with a population of 130,000. Examples from Houston and Kansas City illustrate typical designs for commercial developments near roadways, while examples from Eugene and Houston illustrate typical designs of residential developments near roadways.
