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The following noise abatement measures were considered and evaluated as a means to reduce or eliminate traffic noise impacts:
Acquisition of real property to provide a buffer zone between traffic and the impacted receivers – The purchase of land along I-26 to lessen the noise levels along Northwoods Estates would require the costly and disruptive relocation of homeowners. This is better suited for undeveloped properties.
Traffic Management – Signing this section of I-26 to restrict larger or louder vehicles from using certain travel lanes would prevent the interstate’s intended purpose for the movement of people, goods, and services.
Alteration of Horizontal and Vertical Alignments – Realigning the interstate, either horizontally or vertically, would require disruptive relocations for Northwoods Estates and/or the communities on the opposite side of the interstate.
Noise Barriers – Noise barriers, such as earthen berms and noise walls, were considered for Northwoods Estates. Earthen berms were eliminated as an option as it would require removal of the existing tree buffer along the interstate, and right-of-way acquisition, to accommodate the earthen berm.
