Noise study
Mn/DOT participated in a pooled-fund noise study during fall 2004 that monitored 41 test sections in Minnesota, including 9 at MnROAD. To date, the project has tested approximately 400 surfaces in 15 states, said Matt Oman of Mn/DOT's Office of Materials.
There are three main sources that generate overall traffic noise: aerodynamic sources, power train contributions, and tire/pavement interaction. The pooled-fund project investigated only the tire/pavement portion as it can be quantified and controls the overall noise levels at highway speeds.
The final report is expected to be available this May from the Mn/DOT Office of Materials.
For more information, contact Oman at matthew.oman@dot.state.mn.us.