The West Calgary Ring Road is located within the province’s Transportation Utility Corridor (TUC) and is subject to provincial noise reduction guidelines. The provincial guidelines for noise reduction are different than those used by The City of Calgary; however, they are consistent with the policies used within the City of Edmonton and other urban areas. The guidelines are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain applicable.

The noise reduction guidelines for provincial highways within cities and urban areas indicate an average noise level of 65 decibels over a 24-hour period is acceptable. The measurements are taken using an A-weighted filter 1.2 metres above ground level and two metres inside the property line (outside the highway right-of-way).

A preliminary noise study was completed for the North project in October 2018 based on the functional design. As this is a design-build project – meaning the design and construction are happening simultaneously – an additional noise study will be completed once the final design is complete. The preliminary noise study suggests noise attenuation would be warranted for the north facing homes on Valley Meadow Close NW that back onto the TUC.

If noise attenuation is required, the height, material and extents will be determined in the noise study completed as part of the design process. The results of the final noise study will be shared once complete and the project team will contact adjacent property owners about details if a noise wall is planned for construction.

A similar process will be used on the South project to determine if noise attenuation is required.