Project Number:

2710

26th Ward WPCP Power Generation Facility

SERVICE:

Noise Assessment & Acoustical Design

DESCRIPTION:

One of the largest wastewater treatment plants in New York City was in the process of replacing its two aging emergency turbines with three new emergency generators. The emergency power facility is located within 10 feet of the ­fenceline with a large apartment complex across the street with balconies that overlook the facility in a direct line of sight. The proposed repowering project for the 26th Ward WPCP facility required acoustic design services and permitting for the City Environmental Quality Review­ (CEQR).

A noise impact assessment was conducted for stationary sources as well as for construction noise, including the operation of temporary diesel gensets that are necessary under emergency conditions during the upgrade. This work included a top-down sound survey of existing sound sources within the existing emergency generator facility for use in the acoustic modeling, equipment specification and design, and permitting work. Sound pressure measurements were completed to document the existing sound sources at the facility. Acoustic modeling of plant noise impacts was performed for two equipment configurations, including for the full project build-out scenario. An equipment noise analysis was prepared, and elements were incorporated into the project design. Tech then modified the acoustic model incorporating the low-noise equipment alternatives.

Tech also developed a report that was incorporated into the CEQR EAS. NYC DEP agreed with Tech's assessment that the replacement of the two existing turbines with three new larger emeregency generators would not cause a significant adverse noise impact, provided that the low-noise equipment components Tech recommended were included in the emergency generator bid package for construction.

Print   Email

Key Points

  • New York City DEP and Hazen and Sawyer required a CEQR determination of no adverse noise impact for an emergency power upgrade to the 26th Ward WPCP.
  • Tech completed the noise assessment, made process equipment recommendations to minimize noise, and demonstrated no adverse noise impact.