Applications of Quiet Pavements in Reducing Highway Noise

Abstract: With the expanded infrastructure and increasing traffic levels around residential and community areas around the city, highway noise pollution has been a growing and persisting challenge. Florida department of Transportation (FDOT) finds it necessary to investigate the recent advancements and upcoming research needs in the area of highway noise characterizations and the impact of pavements and their effectiveness in reducing highway noise. The main objectives of this study were to find out the recent developments in the area of highway noise, quiet pavements and to better understand the contributing factors, remedies, and the effects of highway noise pollution on the public. This study compiled the activities that has been performed during the study. This includes detailed literature review; analysis of the noise data collected from FDOT; information collected during interviews with quiet pavement experts from different state highway agencies; and a research gap assessment identified through literature review, data analysis and interviews. Findings from this study is used to prioritize gaps and develop a roadmap with implementation steps as recommendations to FDOT. The gaps identified through this study were prioritized based on their impact and feasibility. Future research needs and recommendations were also proposed for addressing the identified gaps, outlining research, development, testing, and implementation steps. It is imperative to continue research and collaboration with experts, research institutions, and stakeholders to ensure the success of the noise mitigation strategy over time.