MEASUREMENT OF "BACKGROUND" NOISE IN TOWNSHIP
WEBSTER TOWNSHIP, MI
Webster Township is a rural township containing farms, country residences, and significant historical structures such as Webster Church (above).
Webster Township’s noise ordinance specified that noise levels from a property or use must not exceed certain levels, as measured at the roadside property line. The ordinance was difficult to apply; the zoning compliance officer requested that existing community noise (“background noise”) levels be determined. The township retained ASTI to evaluate and report on existing community noise levels.
ASTI selected 8 locations in the township that had varying traffic volumes on adjacent roads, and measured ambient noise over 24-hr periods. The noise levels time series were summarized using noise statistics developed by using proprietary Bruel & Kjaer instruments and software. All noise measurements were made in accordance with ASTM procedures for ambient noise measurement.
ASTI summarized its findings in a report, supplied CDs of the raw data and statistical analyses, and appeared before the township board to explain its findings
