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Noise <br />Affected Environment <br />Noise information presented in this section is qualitative and is based primarily on existing data <br />and publications. <br />Regulations and Standards <br />Noise control standards adopted by the cities of Eugene and Springfield for various noise- <br />generating activities are set at levels that protect the public from known adverse health effects. <br />These noise standards establish permissible sound levels according to the land use zones of the <br />noise source and the noise receiver. Maximum allowable ambient levels (i.e., existing noise <br />from people, transportation, and other sources excluding construction) for both Eugene and <br />Springfield in commercially zoned areas are 65 decibels during the day (between 7 a.m. and <br />10 p.m.), and 60 decibels at night (between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.). Both local and state noise <br />regulations (OAR 340-35-035) are administered and enforced by local authorities such as the <br />county sheriff or local police. <br />A few types of equipment, such as jackhammers, concrete saws, and pile drivers, cannot meet <br />noise standards and are exempt. These types of equipment are limited to use during normal <br />daytime construction hours. If work must occur. outside the 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daytime period, a <br />city variance must be obtained. Construction activities (i.e., building and demolition work, <br />including the land clearing, earth-moving, and landscaping) -are exempt from most of the <br />provisions of OAR 340-35-035. Table 4 lists the noise levels associated with commonly used <br />types of construction equipment. <br />Ambient Noise Levels <br />The two alternative sites are located in the downtown areas of Eugene and Springfield, urban <br />areas with commercial and industrial buildings, residences, parking garages and lots, and high <br />traffic flow. Noise is generated primarily from vehicular activity, aircraft activity, and human <br />activity. Maintenance activities (e.g., landscaping, repaving, and street cleaning) and periodic <br />construction and demolition of buildings and surface streets occasionally contribute to existing <br />noise levels. <br />New Federal Courthouse 93 Final EIS <br />~_, <br />i <br />