Countdown to Construction
Project Facts
- Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer of 2009.
- Since 1976, WSDOT has been required to take noise levels into consideration during design of highway projects.
- The noise reduction goal is to achieve at least a seven decibel (dBA) decrease along all frontline public spaces and ground-level residences.
October 2008
- Engineers are currently designing this project.
- Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2009.
- Read more about highway traffic noise.
Overview
We will build a noise wall in front of the West View Elementary School along Interstate 5 in Burlington.
Why is WSDOT
building a noise wall along I-5 in Burlington?
The original construction of I-5 did not consider noise impacts at the time that it was built, so locations along the I-5 corridor are ranked by priority on a statewide retrofit list.
Since 1976, WSDOT has been required to take noise levels into consideration during design of highway projects.
Highways built prior to 1976 can qualify for noise reduction projects. Currently 72 sites have been identified and ranked, including the West View Elementary School. Walls are built according to rank, as funds are available.
We use a cost/benefit calculation that includes:
- Noise level before and after reduction.
- Number of sensitive receivers, including residents and residential equivalents, like churches and schools, built prior to May 14, 1976.
- Preliminary cost estimates.
Noise walls are being designed and constructed to improve the noise environment both for residents and for outdoor enthusiasts. Everyday activities like walking, working inthe yard or leaving a window open at night will become more enjoyable.
The End Result
Installing a noise wall along this busy corridor will noticeably reduce noise from I-5 for the school and surrounding community.
Project Benefits
- Noise Reduction - This project will noticeably reduce freeway noise in the adjacent communities.
What is the project timeline?
- Engineers are currently designing this construction project.
- Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2009 and should be completed by fall.
Public Involvement
Your thoughts and opinions are important to us. If you have comments or questions, please e-mail Dave Chesson.
Environmental Protection
WSDOT makes every effort to assess and minimize environmental impact from our projects. During project design, WSDOT will work to reduce the impact to wetlands, creeks and rivers in the project area. A detailed analysis of the project's environmental impacts will be completed and, if necessary, an appropriate plan for mitigation of impacts will be developed and documented as part of the Environmental Documentation and Environmental Permitting processes.
Please visit the WSDOT Environmental
Services Web site for more information.
Increasing safety is one of our priorities
During the construction phase of this project, WSDOT will implement all necessary traffic management and safety measures.
Will this project impact tribal resources?
We will consult with Tribes and other interested parties as we develop this project.
At WSDOT we seek to address the concerns of the tribal nations using the process outlined in Section 106 of The National Historic Preservation Act and the WSDOT Tribal Consultation Policy adopted in 2003 by the Transportation Commission as part of the WSDOT Centennial Accord Plan.
To learn more about the tribal consultation process please visit WSDOT's Tribal Liaison page, where you'll find links to WSDOT Centennial Accord Plan and WSDOT's Tribal Consultation Policy (Adopted by the Transportation Commission on February 19, 2003).
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following fund sources:
- Existing Funds - $1.9 million
- Total Funding Available From All Sources - $1.9 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Communications Dave Chesson
WSDOT Mt. Baker Headquarters
1043 Goldenrod Road, Suite 101
Burlington, WA 98233-3415
Phone: 360-757-5970
E-mail: Chessod@wsdot.wa.gov
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