New Yorker’s could soon be getting a database that tells them just how noisy their particular neighborhood is. According to a report by CBS New York, City Councilwoman Margaret Chin’s bill would require the installation of devices by the city’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) that measure the street noise at intersections throughout the city.
In the future, the data from the devices could be used to create a “noise pollution database” where residents could track how their neighborhoods stack up. Any area that exceeds 65 decibels would be red-flagged, and all the data would be included in an annual report.
“Experts agree that 65 decibels is the average ambient noise for us to carry on a regular, normal conversation,” Chin told CBS New York in November. “But in some areas, you would have to raise your voice because of the noise.”
Noise Pollution and Health
Chin cited noise pollution’s adverse health effects as the main reason for introducing the bill. A recent study by the New York City Department of Health found that 4 out of 10 New Yorker’s reported disruptions in their lives from outside noise, mostly from traffic, neighbors, and emergency sirens. Residents in Manhattan reported the highest noise pollution levels.
Noise pollution can contribute to multiple health problems, including lack of sleep, inability to concentrate, and high stress levels. Not everyone lives in a noisy city like New York, but noise from traffic and construction zones affect us all.
Sound Fighter’s LSE® Absorptive Noise Barrier System and mobile noise barriers are ideal for reducing construction site noise as well as unwanted sound from roads and highways. To learn how Sound Fighter can benefit your business or community, contact us.
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