ATLANTA — Living beside a bustling highway can mean enduring the constant symphony of traffic, but the Georgia Department of Transportation is looking to aid those shaken by the constant rumble with sound barriers.
For Joshua Minnieweather, it's more than just background noise -- it's a daily reality that seeps through his bedroom window overlooking Interstate 285 in DeKalb County. With the recent removal of a buffer of trees by construction crews, the roar of passing vehicles has become even more pronounced, disrupting the peace.
"I notice it every day," Minnieweather said. "Easy fix, close my window, put my headphones on, go on with my day."
Adaptation has become his coping mechanism in the face of relentless noise intrusion as construction crews diligently work on new ramps, bridges, and lanes at the junction of Interstate 20 and I-285, altering traffic patterns and, consequently, the impact of traffic noise in the area.
GDOT said to combat the noise; they've sent out notices for homes and businesses eligible for sound barriers mandated by federal regulations. The departments said that before construction projects, meticulous studies are conducted to gauge the extent of sound propagation, both presently and in the future.
Residents have until the end of February to cast their votes on if they want noise barriers installed. While some may welcome the idea of a quieter living environment, others, particularly businesses, may have reservations, considering the potential visibility implications of towering sound walls.
"Some businesses may not want one because you can easily be seen from the interstate if there’s not a sound wall blocking their business," notes a concerned citizen.
For Minnieweather, who mixes music in his bedroom studio, the prospect of sound barriers is a beacon of hope.
"They got my vote," he said. "Less noise, more music."
GDOT said to residents and business owners the noise barrier voting packet was mailed out in mid-January and should be reaching mailboxes soon, and remember to return your ballot by mail or vote online by March 1.