What is the effect of pavement type on noise levels?
Research regarding the influence of pavement on noise levels has been ongoing for several decades and continues to this day. In general, the use of asphalt pavement instead of concrete can give an initial noise reduction benefit to properties within 200 to 300 feet of the highway. Over time, however, the benefits of asphalt are diminished as the surface settles and becomes more polished. The long-term noise benefits of new advances in the industry, such as rubberized asphalt, are not well known. As a result, pavement type in and of itself cannot presently be considered as an alternative to conventional noise mitigation measures.
