Acoustic impact of urban morphology in pedestrian streets

Abstract

Objective

Current municipal policy on the use of public space proposes the reduction of road traffic on the streets, especially on narrow streets. This strategy encourages other uses of public space, which may compromise the objective of pacification. The present study analyses the acoustic behaviour of streets with this type of urban morphology, in order to establish general criteria when making decisions.

Methodology

Sound intensity level at different heights of a building’s façade have been taken, in a narrow street, in two different acoustic situations: streets occupied by pedestrians and streets without people.

Conclusions

The acoustic levels measured at different heights of the facade of a building are very similar. In certain urban morphologies, such as streets with a narrow urban canyon, the sound level that reaches the windows located at different heights of a building are very similar.

Originality

The studies of urban acoustics focus mainly on the sound produced by traffic. In this study, the users of terraces and other leisure facilities have been considered as the main sound sources.