Project Number:

3706

Route 128 Exit 19 Interchange Reconstruction Project

SERVICE:

Noise and Air Quality Studies

DESCRIPTION:

Tech was asked to perform a variety of tasks to satisfy what is typically required for a MEPA Expanded Environmental Notification Form (EENF), so that the client could obtain a Phase 1 Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Waiver. Tech performed baseline sound measurements, collected traffic volume and classification counts, and estimated average speeds of the vehicles. Tech was able to make predictions of the hourly Leq levels for the peak hour for the Existing versus Build versus No-Build scenarios, using an appropriate model. The calculated sound levels from these scenarios were compared to the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria (NAC). Tech also performed a sound mitigation measures evaluation for those locations that exceeded the FHWA NAC and determined that a noise barrier was not economically feasible. For the air quality portion of this project, Tech conducted a mesoscale analysis measuring changes in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2). The microscale analysis that was conducted included the prediction of maximum CO concentrations at intersections. The results of the mesoscale analysis demonstrated that the project would improve regional air quality conditions, and the microscale analysis showed that the worst-case intersections in the Project area would meet the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for CO. MEPA granted Phase 1 EIR waiver for the Project.

Print   Email

Key Points

  • For a client to obtain a Phase 1 EIR Waiver, Tech performed the required noise and air quality analysis in accordance with the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria and in compliance with the mesoscale and microscale air quality criterion.
  • MEPA granted Phase 1 EIR waiver for the Project.