Why did VTA conduct a texture-grinding test project?
VTA conducted a test project in 2003 on a section of Route 85 to assess the potential of texture-grinding to reduce tire noise. The test section was located just north of Prospect Road area and extended southerly for less than one mile. Grinding operations lasted approximately two months. Crews monitored noise levels in the freeway right-of-way and on surface streets both before and after the grinding operations. The test project indicated that texture-grinding the freeway pavement reduced overall noise, but it was less than the 3 dBA threshold that is perceptible to the human ear. However, the study determined the grinding caused a downward shift in the tonal characteristics of the sound and decibel reductions at frequencies that are easily heard by humans. Based on comments from the community, the combined effect has been a perceived reduction in noise.
