The Challenge
Assessing noise exposure from helicopter operations at a proposed private-use helistop in a rural residential area.
The Strategy
HMMH:
- Conducted a series of noise measurements of simulated helicopter approaches and departures from the proposed helistop
- Reviewed existing land uses near the facility
- Calculated cumulative noise exposure levels for the proposed helicopter operations
- Assessed the shielding (noise reduction) provided by an intervening hill for nearby residences
- Compared the noise exposure levels to the Alameda County Noise Ordinance and the Alameda County Airport Land Use Plan
- Testified at the Alameda County Board of Zoning Adjustment hearings and the Alameda County Airport Land Use Commission hearings.
The Solution
The potential noise effects on the nearby residents were quantified in a technical memorandum.
