Mapping traffic noise pollution and population density in Victoria
Date
2025
Authors
Drew, Ross
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Victoria
Abstract
This research collected several traffic characteristics for measured street segments in Victoria, BC (~10-20% of total), including the number of cars and average speed, then modeled those characteristics for the rest of the city. That data was put through the US Federal Highway Administration traffic noise calculator and used to reverse engineer an equation, which was then applied across the city to digitally map average hourly noise levels at four buffer distances from each street. The traffic noise pollution data has been contrasted with population density and the City of Victoria's targeted "housing opportunity areas" to show that high-density housing is being predominantly built (and planned) in areas with unhealthy ambient noise levels. This data can be used to critically examine community and transportation planning strategies. An interactive digital version of the map shown in the infographic, along with many more maps, can be explored through ArcGIS StoryMaps at tinyurl.com/vicnoise.
Description
Keywords
geography, noise pollution, traffic modelling, digital mapping, built environment, planning