Noise and Vibration - Field studies

The 2024 noise and vibration study focused on documenting and understanding existing noise and vibration conditions at sensitive receptors (schools, elderly housing, etc.) near the project. This will help Alto planners understand some of the project’s potential impact on the surrounding environment during the construction and operation phases.

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Key terms

Ground-borne Vibration (VdB)

How the ground moves in response to nearby activity. Ground-borne vibration is typically described using vibration velocity decibels (VdB). 

A-weighted Sound Level (dBA)

Sound level adjusted to how humans perceive different frequencies. The greater the level, the louder the sound.

Sensitive receptors/ locations

Areas where occupants may be more sensitive to noise and vibration, such as dwellings, hospitals, schools, daycare facilities and elderly housing.

Why study noise and vibration?

Passenger rail operation and construction emits noise and vibration. Sound and vibration monitors will be used to measure existing conditions along possible routes. Measuring noise and vibration levels before railway construction will help decision-makers determine a baseline for assessing and reducing potential negative effects.

What do noise & vibation studies involve?

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The data collected from these devices will then be used to inform the impact assessment. 

  • Noise and vibration studies involve establishing existing conditions and identifying and describing those conditions.
  • To establish baseline sound conditions, a sound monitor will be installed to capture ambient (surrounding) sound over a 48- hour period.
  • Vibration monitors will be used to capture vibration measurements from passing existing trains. This will help us establish baseline vibration conditions at sensitive locations and determine local ground-borne vibration characteristics.

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