HomeMy WebLinkAboutAppendix F Noise and Vibration Impact AnalysisFebruary 2023
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS
CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
February 2023
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS
CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
Submitted to:
EPD Solutions, Inc.
2355 Main Street, Suite 100
Irvine, California 92614
Prepared by:
LSA
20 Executive Park, Suite 200
Irvine, California 92614
(949) 553-0666
Project No. ESL2201.54
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FIGURES AND TABLES ............................................................................................................................. ii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ............................................................................................ iii
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 4
Project Location And Description .................................................................................................. 4
Existing Land Uses In The Project Area ......................................................................................... 5
NOISE AND VIBRATION FUNDAMENTALS .................................................................... 8
Characteristics of Sound ................................................................................................................ 8
Measurement of Sound................................................................................................................. 8
Physiological Effects of Noise ............................................................................................................. 9
Fundamentals of Vibration .......................................................................................................... 11
REGULATORY SETTING .............................................................................................. 13
Applicable Noise Standards ......................................................................................................... 13
California Code of Regulations ......................................................................................................... 13
City of Fontana ................................................................................................................................. 13
Federal Transit Administration ......................................................................................................... 14
Applicable Vibration Standards ................................................................................................... 15
Federal Transit Administration ......................................................................................................... 15
OVERVIEW OF THE EXISTING NOISE ENVIRONMENT .................................................. 16
Ambient Noise Measurements ................................................................................................... 16
Long-Term Noise Measurements ..................................................................................................... 16
Existing Aircraft Noise ................................................................................................................. 16
PROJECT IMPACT ANALYSIS ...................................................................................... 18
Short-Term Construction Noise Impacts ..................................................................................... 18
Short-Term Construction Vibration Impacts ............................................................................... 21
Long-Term Off-Site Traffic Noise Impacts ................................................................................... 24
Stationary Operational Noise Impacts to Off-Site Receivers ...................................................... 24
Long-Term Traffic-Related Vibration Impacts ............................................................................. 24
LAND USE COMPATIBILITY ........................................................................................ 25
Exterior Noise Assessment .......................................................................................................... 25
Interior Noise Assessment........................................................................................................... 25
BEST CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES .............................................................................. 26
REFERENCES ............................................................................................................. 27
APPENDICES
A: NOISE MONITORING DATA
B: CONSTRUCTION NOISE CALCULATIONS
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» ii
FIGURES AND TABLES
FIGURES
Figure 1: Project Location ....................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 2: Site Plan ................................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 3: Noise Monitoring Locations .................................................................................................. 17
TABLES
Table A: Definitions of Acoustical Terms .............................................................................................. 10
Table B: Common Sound Levels and Their Noise Sources.................................................................... 11
Table C: Noise Standards ...................................................................................................................... 14
Table D: Detailed Assessment Daytime Construction Noise Criteria ................................................... 14
Table E: Interpretation of Vibration Criteria for Detailed Analysis ...................................................... 15
Table F: Construction Vibration Damage Criteria ................................................................................. 15
Table G: Long-Term Ambient Noise Level Measurements ................................................................... 16
Table H: Typical Construction Equipment Noise Levels ....................................................................... 19
Table I: Potential Construction Noise Impacts at Nearest Receptor .................................................... 20
Table J: Vibration Source Amplitudes for Construction Equipment ..................................................... 21
Table K: Potential Construction Vibration Annoyance Impacts at Nearest Receptor .......................... 22
Table L: Potential Construction Vibration Damage Impacts at Nearest Receptor ............................... 22
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» iii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
ADT average daily trips
ALUC Airport Land Use Compatibility
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
City City of Fontana
CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level
dBA
EIR
A-weighted decibel(s)
Environmental Impact Report
FHWA Federal Highway Administration
ft foot/feet
FTA Federal Transit Administration
FTA Manual FTA Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual
in/sec inch/inches per second
Ldn day-night average noise level
Leq equivalent continuous sound level
Lmax maximum instantaneous sound level
mi mile/miles
Noise Element
ONT
City of Fontana General Plan Noise Element
Ontario International Airport
PPV peak particle velocity
project Chase Road Residential Development Project
RMS root-mean-square
STC Sound Transmission Class
VdB vibration velocity decibels
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 4
INTRODUCTION
This noise and vibration impact analysis has been prepared to evaluate the potential noise and
vibration impacts and reduction measures associated with the proposed Chase Road Residential
Development Project (project) in the City of Fontana (City), County of San Bernardino (County),
California. This report is intended to satisfy the City of Fontana’s (City) requirement for a project-
specific noise impact analysis by examining the impacts of the project site and evaluating noise
reduction measures that the project may require.
PROJECT LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
The 6.84-acre project site is located at 15912 Chase Road (Assessor’s Parcel Numbers [APNs] 0228-
151-17-0-000, 0228-151-18-0-000, and 0228-151-19-0-000), in Fontana, San Bernardino County,
California. The project site is currently undeveloped and will be accessible via Chase Road and
Cascade Drive. See Figure 1, Regional Project Location, and Figure 2, Site Plan, below.
The proposed project would include the construction of 48 residential units and associated
improvements such as landscape, private yards, and recreational areas. The project would provide
approximately 780 square feet (sq ft) of front private yard and 1,900 sq ft of rear private yard for a
total of 2,680 sq ft of private yard per unit. In addition, the proposed project would include
approximately 26,364 sq ft of common recreational space consisting of a recreation area with a pool
and patio located in the southern portion of the site and a park with picnic tables, barbeque grills, a
pet area, and trash receptables. The proposed project would install approximately 136,484 sq ft of
new drought tolerant low water use ornamental landscaping throughout the site. The proposed
project would not include natural gas, and no natural gas demand is anticipated during construction
or operation of the project. Residential units would include photovoltaic (PV) solar panels on the
rooftop of each unit.
The project would also construct a 40-foot private road to connect the existing east and west sides
of Cascade Road. Internal access would be via 26-foot-wide drive aisles. All on-site streets would
contain sidewalks along both sides. The proposed project would include a total of 123 parking
spaces, two covered parking spaces per unit (96 total) and an additional 27 uncovered parking
spaces. Based on trip rates from the Institute of Transportation Engineers 11th Edition1 for Single-
Family Detached Housing (land use code 201), the proposed project would generate approximately
453 average daily trips.
The project would be constructed in four phases, with construction beginning to the south and
progressing to the north. Construction is anticipated to last approximately 22 months, beginning in
September 2023, and ending in July 2025. Construction activities include excavation, grading, and
re-compaction of soils, utility and infrastructure installation, building construction, roadway
pavement, and architectural coatings. Based on the preliminary grading plans, the project would
require in 63,459 cubic yards of soil export and 66,484 cubic yards of soil import, for a net import of
3,385 cubic yards of soil.
1 2021. Institute of Transportation Engineers, Trip Generation 11th Edition. September.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 5
EXISTING LAND USES IN THE PROJECT AREA
The project site is surrounded primarily by residential uses. The areas adjacent to the project site
include the following uses:
• North: Existing single-family residences along Allison Way;
• East: Existing single-family residences along Cascade Drive and Pfc Paris Montanez Drive;
• South: Existing single-family residences along Encore Lane; and
• West: Existing single-family residences along Catawba Drive and Cascade Drive.
The closest sensitive receptors to the project site include single-family homes located immediately
adjacent from the project site boundary approximately 5 feet away.
SOURCE: Bing Maps (2021)
J:\ESL2201.54\GIS\MXD\Project_Location.mxd (1/26/2023)
FIGURE 1
Chase Road Residential Development Project
Regional Project Location
LEGEND
Project Location
0 1000 2000
FEET
SanBernardinoCounty
RiversideCounty
ÃÃ138
ÃÃ330
ÃÃ18
ÃÃ71 ÃÃ91
ÃÃ210
ÃÃ173
ÃÃ60
Project Location
§¨¦15
§¨¦215
§¨¦10
Orange County
RiversideCountyOrange County
SanBernardinoCounty
Project Vicinity
''
('+ %'+)
%'
+
)
%'
+
)
%'+)
%'
+
)
%!
%!' %!
%!' %!
%!' %!
%!' %!
%!' %!
%!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%!
'
%!
%! %!
' %!
%!'%!
%!'
%!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%!
'
%
!
%!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
%
!
%
!
'
'
'
'
'
'
'
'
'
('$
'
'
).
%
).
%
).
%
).
%
).%
).%
).%
).%
%'+).' ).%
%'+).' ).%
%'+).' ).%
%'+).' ).%
%'+).' ).%
%'+).' ).%
).%
%'+).' ).%
$%#(%,&"%'(!#(%%!#(
SOURCE: Summa Architecture
I:\ESL2201.54\G\Site_Plan.ai (1/26/23)
FIGURE 2
Site Plan
044 88
FEET
Chase Road Residential Development Project
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 8
NOISE AND VIBRATION FUNDAMENTALS
CHARACTERISTICS OF SOUND
Noise is usually defined as unwanted sound. Noise consists of any sound that may produce
physiological or psychological damage and/or interfere with communication, work, rest, recreation,
and sleep.
To the human ear, sound has two significant characteristics: pitch and loudness. Pitch is generally an
annoyance, while loudness can affect the ability to hear. Pitch is the number of complete vibrations,
or cycles per second, of a sound wave, which results in the tone’s range from high to low. Loudness
is the strength of a sound, and it describes a noisy or quiet environment; it is measured by the
amplitude of the sound wave. Loudness is determined by the intensity of the sound waves
combined with the reception characteristics of the human ear. Sound intensity is the average rate of
sound energy transmitted through a unit area perpendicular to the direction in which the sound
waves are traveling. This characteristic of sound can be precisely measured with instruments. The
analysis of a project defines the noise environment of the project area in terms of sound intensity
and its effect on adjacent sensitive land uses.
MEASUREMENT OF SOUND
Sound intensity is measured with the A-weighted decibel (dBA) scale to correct for the relative
frequency response of the human ear. That is, an A-weighted noise level de-emphasizes low and
very high frequencies of sound, similar to the human ear’s de-emphasis of these frequencies.
Decibels (dB), unlike the linear scale (e.g., inches or pounds), are measured on a logarithmic scale
representing points on a sharply rising curve.
For example, 10 dB is 10 times more intense than 0 dB, 20 dB is 100 times more intense than 0 dB,
and 30 dB is 1,000 times more intense than 0 dB. Thirty decibels (30 dB) represents 1,000 times as
much acoustic energy as 0 dB. The decibel scale increases as the square of the change, representing
the sound pressure energy. A sound as soft as human breathing is about 10 times greater than 0 dB.
The decibel system of measuring sound gives a rough connection between the physical intensity of
sound and its perceived loudness to the human ear. A 10 dB increase in sound level is perceived by
the human ear as only a doubling of the sound’s loudness. Ambient sounds generally range from
30 dB (very quiet) to 100 dB (very loud).
Sound levels are generated from a source, and their decibel level decreases as the distance from
that source increases. Sound levels dissipate exponentially with distance from their noise sources.
For a single point source, sound levels decrease approximately 6 dB for each doubling of distance
from the source. This drop-off rate is appropriate for noise generated by stationary equipment.
If noise is produced by a line source (e.g., highway traffic or railroad operations), the sound
decreases 3 dB for each doubling of distance in a hard site environment. Line-source sound levels
decrease 4.5 dB for each doubling of distance in a relatively flat environment with absorptive
vegetation.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 9
There are many ways to rate noise for various time periods, but an appropriate rating of ambient
noise affecting humans also accounts for the annoying effects of sound. The equivalent continuous
sound level (Leq) is the total sound energy of time-varying noise over a sample period. However, the
predominant rating scales for human communities in the State of California are the Leq and
Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) or the day-night average noise level (Ldn) based on
A-weighted decibels. CNEL is the time-weighted average noise over a 24-hour period, with a
5 dBA weighting factor applied to the hourly Leq for noises occurring from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
(defined as relaxation hours) and a 10 dBA weighting factor applied to noises occurring from
10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. (defined as sleeping hours). Ldn is similar to the CNEL scale but without the
adjustment for events occurring during relaxation hours. CNEL and Ldn are within 1 dBA of each
other and are normally interchangeable. The City uses the CNEL noise scale for long-term traffic
noise impact assessment.
Other noise rating scales of importance when assessing the annoyance factor include the maximum
instantaneous noise level (Lmax), which is the highest sound level that occurs during a stated time
period. The noise environments discussed in this analysis for short-term noise impacts are specified
in terms of maximum levels denoted by Lmax, which reflects peak operating conditions and addresses
the annoying aspects of intermittent noise. It is often used together with another noise scale, or
noise standards in terms of percentile noise levels, in noise ordinances for enforcement purposes.
For example, the L10 noise level represents the noise level exceeded 10 percent of the time during a
stated period. The L50 noise level represents the median noise level. Half the time the noise level
exceeds this level, and half the time it is less than this level. The L90 noise level represents the noise
level exceeded 90 percent of the time and is considered the background noise level during a
monitoring period. For a relatively constant noise source, the Leq and L50 are approximately the
same.
Noise impacts can be described in three categories. The first category includes audible impacts,
which are increases in noise levels noticeable to humans. Audible increases in noise levels generally
refer to a change of 3 dB or greater because this level has been found to be barely perceptible in
exterior environments. The second category, potentially audible, refers to a change in the noise
level between 1 dB and 3 dB. This range of noise levels has been found to be noticeable only in
laboratory environments. The last category includes changes in noise levels of less than 1 dB, which
are inaudible to the human ear. Only audible changes in existing ambient or background noise levels
are considered potentially significant.
Physiological Effects of Noise
Physical damage to human hearing begins at prolonged exposure to sound levels higher than
85 dBA. Exposure to high sound levels affects the entire system, with prolonged sound exposure in
excess of 75 dBA increasing body tensions, thereby affecting blood pressure and functions of the
heart and the nervous system. In comparison, extended periods of sound exposure above
90 dBA would result in permanent cell damage. When the sound level reaches 120 dBA, a tickling
sensation occurs in the human ear, even with short-term exposure. This level of sound is called the
threshold of feeling. As the sound reaches 140 dBA, the tickling sensation is replaced by a feeling of
pain in the ear (i.e., the threshold of pain). A sound level of 160–165 dBA will result in dizziness or a
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 10
loss of equilibrium. The ambient or background noise problem is widespread and generally more
concentrated in urban areas than in outlying, less developed areas.
Table A lists definitions of acoustical terms, and Table B shows common sound levels and their
sources.
Table A: Definitions of Acoustical Terms
Term Definitions
Decibel, dB A unit of sound measurement that denotes the ratio between two quantities that are
proportional to power; the number of decibels is 10 times the logarithm (to the base 10) of this
ratio.
Frequency, Hz Of a function periodic in time, the number of times that the quantity repeats itself in 1 second
(i.e., the number of cycles per second).
A-Weighted Sound
Level, dBA
The sound level obtained by use of A-weighting. The A-weighting filter de-emphasizes the very
low and very high frequency components of the sound in a manner similar to the frequency
response of the human ear and correlates well with subjective reactions to noise. (All sound
levels in this report are A-weighted unless reported otherwise.)
L01, L10, L50, L90 The fast A-weighted noise levels that are equaled or exceeded by a fluctuating sound level 1%,
10%, 50%, and 90% of a stated time period, respectively.
Equivalent
Continuous Noise
Level, Leq
The level of a steady sound that, in a stated time period and at a stated location, has the same
A-weighted sound energy as the time-varying sound.
Community Noise
Equivalent Level,
CNEL
The 24-hour A-weighted average sound level from midnight to midnight, obtained after the
addition of 5 dBA to sound levels occurring in the evening from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and
after the addition of 10 dBA to sound levels occurring in the night between 10:00 p.m. and
7:00 a.m.
Day/Night Noise
Level, Ldn
The 24-hour A-weighted average sound level from midnight to midnight, obtained after the
addition of 10 dBA to sound levels occurring in the night between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Lmax, Lmin The maximum and minimum A-weighted sound levels measured on a sound level meter,
during a designated time interval, using fast time averaging.
Ambient Noise Level The all-encompassing noise associated with a given environment at a specified time. Usually a composite of sound from many sources from many directions, near and far; no particular
sound is dominant.
Intrusive The noise that intrudes over and above the existing ambient noise at a given location. The
relative intrusiveness of a sound depends upon its amplitude, duration, frequency, time of
occurrence, and tonal or informational content, as well as the prevailing ambient noise level.
Source: Handbook of Acoustical Measurements and Noise Control (Harris 1991).
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 11
Table B: Common Sound Levels and Their Noise Sources
Noise Source A-Weighted Sound Level in Decibels Noise Environments Subjective Evaluations
Near Jet Engine 140 Deafening 128 times as loud
Civil Defense Siren 130 Threshold of Pain 64 times as loud
Hard Rock Band 120 Threshold of Feeling 32 times as loud
Accelerating Motorcycle at a Few Feet Away 110 Very Loud 16 times as loud
Pile Driver; Noisy Urban Street/Heavy City
Traffic
100 Very Loud 8 times as loud
Ambulance Siren; Food Blender 95 Very Loud —
Garbage Disposal 90 Very Loud 4 times as loud
Freight Cars; Living Room Music 85 Loud —
Pneumatic Drill; Vacuum Cleaner 80 Loud 2 times as loud
Busy Restaurant 75 Moderately Loud —
Near Freeway Auto Traffic 70 Moderately Loud Reference level
Average Office 60 Quiet One-half as loud
Suburban Street 55 Quiet —
Light Traffic; Soft Radio Music in Apartment 50 Quiet One-quarter as loud
Large Transformer 45 Quiet —
Average Residence without Stereo Playing 40 Faint One-eighth as loud
Soft Whisper 30 Faint —
Rustling Leaves 20 Very Faint —
Human Breathing 10 Very Faint Threshold of Hearing
— 0 Very Faint —
Source: Compiled by LSA (2022).
FUNDAMENTALS OF VIBRATION
Vibration refers to ground-borne noise and perceptible motion. Ground-borne vibration is almost
exclusively a concern inside buildings and is rarely perceived as a problem outdoors, where the
motion may be discernible, but without the effects associated with the shaking of a building there is
less adverse reaction. Vibration energy propagates from a source through intervening soil and rock
layers to the foundations of nearby buildings. The vibration then propagates from the foundation
throughout the remainder of the structure. Building vibration may be perceived by occupants as the
motion of building surfaces, the rattling of items sitting on shelves or hanging on walls, or a low-
frequency rumbling noise. The rumbling noise is caused by the vibration of walls, floors, and ceilings
that radiate sound waves. Annoyance from vibration often occurs when the vibration exceeds the
threshold of perception by 10 dB or less. This is an order of magnitude below the damage threshold
for normal buildings.
Typical sources of ground-borne vibration are construction activities (e.g., blasting, pile-driving, and
operating heavy-duty earthmoving equipment), steel-wheeled trains, and occasional traffic on rough
roads. Problems with both ground-borne vibration and noise from these sources are usually
localized to areas within approximately 100 feet (ft) from the vibration source, although there are
examples of ground-borne vibration causing interference out to distances greater than 200 ft .
When roadways are smooth, vibration from traffic, even heavy trucks, is rarely perceptible. It is
assumed for most projects that the roadway surface will be smooth enough that ground-borne
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 12
vibration from street traffic will not exceed the impact criteria; however, construction of the project
could result in ground-borne vibration that may be perceptible and annoying.
Ground-borne noise is not likely to be a problem because noise arriving via the normal airborne path
will usually be greater than ground-borne noise.
Ground-borne vibration has the potential to disturb people and damage buildings. Although it is
very rare for train-induced ground-borne vibration to cause even cosmetic building damage, it is not
uncommon for construction processes such as blasting and pile-driving to cause vibration of
sufficient amplitudes to damage nearby buildings. Ground-borne vibration is usually measured in
terms of vibration velocity, either the root-mean-square (RMS) velocity or peak particle velocity
(PPV). The RMS is best for characterizing human response to building vibration, and PPV is used to
characterize the potential for damage. Decibel notation acts to compress the range of numbers
required to describe vibration. Vibration velocity level in decibels is defined as:
Lv = 20 log10 [V/Vref]
where “Lv” is the vibration velocity in decibels (VdB), “V” is the RMS velocity amplitude, and “Vref” is
the reference velocity amplitude, or 1 x 10-6 inches/second (in/sec) used in the United States.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 13
REGULATORY SETTING
APPLICABLE NOISE STANDARDS
The applicable noise standards governing the project site include the criteria in the California Code
of Regulations, the Noise Element of the City’s General Plan (Noise Element), and the City of
Fontana Zoning and Development Code.
California Code of Regulations
Interior noise levels for residential habitable rooms are regulated by Title 24 of the California Code
of Regulations California Noise Insulation Standards. Title 24, Chapter 12, Section 1206.4, of the
2019 California Building Code requires that interior noise levels attributable to exterior sources not
exceed 45 CNEL in any habitable room. A habitable room is a room used for living, sleeping, eating,
or cooking. Bathrooms, closets, hallways, utility spaces, and similar areas are not considered
habitable rooms for this regulation (Title 24 California Code of Regulations, Chapter 12, Section
1206.4).
City of Fontana
Noise Element of the General Plan
The Noise Element provides the City’s goals and policies related to noise, including the land use
compatibility guidelines for community exterior noise environments. The City has identified the
following policies in the Noise Element:
Policy. Residential land uses and areas identified as noise-sensitive shall be protected from excessive
noise from non-transportation sources including industrial, commercial, and residential activities and
equipment.
Actions.
A. Projects located in commercial areas shall not exceed stationary- source noise standards at the
property line of proximate residential or commercial uses.
B. Industrial uses shall not exceed commercial or residential stationary source noise standards at
the most proximate land uses.
C. Non-transportation noise shall be considered in land use planning decisions.
D. Construction shall be performed as quietly as feasible when performed in proximity to
residential or other noise sensitive land uses.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 14
City of Fontana Zoning and Development Code
Noise Standards. The City’s standards for noise impacts in neighboring residential areas are found in
Section 30-469. For residential zoning districts, Section 30-469 indicates that “no use shall create or
cause to be created any sound which exceeds the ambient noise standards outlined in Table 30-469”.
The performance standards found in Section 30-469 limit the exterior noise level to 65 dBA Leq
during the daytime and nighttime hours, and the interior noise level to 45 dBA Leq during the
daytime and nighttime hours at sensitive receiver locations as shown in Table 30-469 (Table C
below).
Table C: Noise Standards
Location of Measurement Maximum Allowable
All zoning districts Daytime (7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) Nighttime (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.)
Interior 45 dBA Leq 45 dBA Leq
Exterior 65 dBA Leq 65 dBA Leq
Source: City of Fontana (2022).
dBA = A-weighted decibels Leq = equivalent continuous sound level
Construction Noise Standards. The City has set restrictions to control noise impacts associated with
the construction of the proposed Project. According to Section 18-63(b)(7), Construction or repairing
of buildings or structures, construction activity is limited: between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00
p.m. on weekdays and between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays except in the case
of urgent necessity.
Federal Transit Administration
Although the City does not have daytime construction noise level limits for activities that occur
within the specified hours in Section 11.80.030(D)(7) to determine potential California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) noise impacts, construction noise was assessed using criteria from
the Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018) (FTA Manual). Table D shows
the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Detailed Assessment Construction Noise Criteria based on
the composite noise levels per construction phase.
Table D: Detailed Assessment Daytime
Construction Noise Criteria
Land Use Daytime 8-hour Leq (dBA)
Residential 80
Commercial 85
Industrial 90
Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018).
dBA = A-weighted decibels Leq = equivalent continuous sound level
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 15
APPLICABLE VIBRATION STANDARDS
Federal Transit Administration
Vibration standards included in the FTA Manual are used in this analysis for ground-borne vibration
impacts on human annoyance. The criteria for environmental impact from ground-borne vibration
and noise are based on the maximum levels for a single event. Table E provides the criteria for
assessing the potential for interference or annoyance from vibration levels in a building.
Table F lists the potential vibration building damage criteria associated with construction activities,
as suggested in the FTA Manual. FTA guidelines show that a vibration level of up to 0.5 in/sec in PPV
is considered safe for buildings consisting of reinforced concrete, steel, or timber (no plaster) and
would not result in any construction vibration damage. For non-engineered timber and masonry
buildings, the construction building vibration damage criterion is 0.2 in/sec in PPV.
Table E: Interpretation of Vibration Criteria for Detailed Analysis
Land Use Max Lv (VdB)1 Description of Use
Workshop 90 Vibration that is distinctly felt. Appropriate for workshops and similar areas
not as sensitive to vibration.
Office 84 Vibration that can be felt. Appropriate for offices and similar areas not as
sensitive to vibration.
Residential Day 78 Vibration that is barely felt. Adequate for computer equipment and low-
power optical microscopes (up to 20×).
Residential Night and
Operating Rooms
72 Vibration is not felt, but ground-borne noise may be audible inside quiet
rooms. Suitable for medium-power microscopes (100×) and other equipment
of low sensitivity.
Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018).
1 As measured in 1/3-octave bands of frequency over a frequency range of 8 to 80 Hertz.
FTA = Federal Transit Administration LV = velocity in decibels Max = maximum VdB = vibration velocity decibels
Table F: Construction Vibration Damage Criteria
Building Category PPV (in/sec)
Reinforced concrete, steel, or timber (no plaster) 0.50
Engineered concrete and masonry (no plaster) 0.30
Non-engineered timber and masonry buildings 0.20
Buildings extremely susceptible to vibration damage 0.12
Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018).
FTA = Federal Transit Administration
in/sec = inch/inches per second
PPV = peak particle velocity
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 16
OVERVIEW OF THE EXISTING NOISE ENVIRONMENT
The primary existing noise sources in the project area are transportation facilities. Local traffic on
the roadways in the vicinity of the project (Chase Road and Cascade Drive) is a steady source of
ambient noise.
AMBIENT NOISE MEASUREMENTS
Long-Term Noise Measurements
Long-term (24-hour) noise level measurements were conducted on January 11 and 12, 2022, using
two Larson Davis Spark 706RC Dosimeters. Table G provides a summary of the measured hourly
noise levels from the long-term noise level measurements. Hourly noise levels at surrounding
sensitive uses are as low as 41.4 dBA Leq during nighttime hours and 42.2 dBA Leq during daytime
hours. Long-term noise monitoring data results are provided in Appendix A. Figure 3 shows the long-
term monitoring locations.
Table G: Long-Term Ambient Noise Level Measurements
Location
Daytime
Noise
Levels1
(dBA Leq)
Evening
Noise
Levels2
(dBA Leq)
Nighttime
Noise
Levels3
(dBA Leq)
Daily Noise
levels
(dBA CNEL)
LT-1 West of Chase Road and Sgt Bryan Brewster Drive, on the nearest Palm tree to road. Approximately
10 ft west of the edge of Chase Road.
42.2 – 50.6 45.9 – 46.3 41.4 – 48.6 52.0
LT-2
South of residence at 15935 Allison Way, on the
project site. Approximately 130 ft south of the
edge of Allison Way.
49.1 – 58.3 52.9 – 53.7 49.6 – 54.6 59.4
Source: Compiled by LSA (2023).
Note: Noise measurements were conducted from January 11 to January 12, 2023, starting at 12:00 p.m.
1 Daytime Noise Levels = Noise levels during the hours from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
2 Evening Noise Levels = Noise levels during the hours from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
2 Nighttime Noise Levels = Noise levels during the hours from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. CNEL = Community Noise Equivalent Level
dBA = A-weighted decibels
Leq = equivalent continuous sound level
EXISTING AIRCRAFT NOISE
Airport-related noise levels are primarily associated with aircraft engine noise made while aircraft
are taking off, landing, or running their engines while still on the ground. The closest airport to the
proposed project site is Ontario International Airport (ONT) located approximately 8.6 miles (mi)
southwest of the project site. According to Policy Map 2-3 of the Ontario International Airport Land
Use Compatibility Plan, the project site is located outside the 60-65 dBA CNEL airport noise impact
zone. Therefore, the project would not be adversely affected by airport/airfield noise, nor would the
project contribute to or result in adverse airport/airfield noise impacts.
FIGURE 3
SOURCE: Google Earth
I:\ESL2201.54\G\Noise_Locs.ai (1/31/2023)
FEET
2001000
LEGEND
Project Site Boundary
Long-term Noise Monitoring LocaƟonLT-1LLT-1-1LT-1
Noise Monitoring LocaƟons
Chase Road ResidenƟal Development Project
LT-1LT-1-1LT-1
Allison WayAllison Way
Ca
t
a
w
b
a
A
v
e
Catawba Ave
Ta
h
o
e
W
a
y
Tahoe Way
Cl
e
a
r
L
a
k
e
W
a
y
Clear LakeWay
Cascade DrCascade Dr
Chase RdChase Rd
Winchester CtWinchester Ct
Me
n
i
f
e
e
R
d
Menifee Rd
Me
n
i
f
e
e
R
d
LT-1LT-2-2LT-2
Allison Way
Walnut AveWalnut Ave
Ci
t
r
u
s
A
v
e
Citrus Ave
Ca
t
a
w
b
a
A
v
e
Ca
t
a
w
b
a
D
r
Catawba Dr
Ta
h
o
e
W
a
y
Sa
l
t
P
o
i
n
t
W
a
y
Salt Point Way
Cl
e
a
r
L
a
k
e
W
a
y
Cascade DrCascade DrCascade DrCascade Dr
Pfc Paris Montanez DrPfc Paris Montanez Dr
Chase Rd
Winchester Ct
Sa
l
t
P
o
i
n
t
W
a
y
Pfc Paris Montanez Dr
Ca
t
a
w
b
a
D
r
Walnut Ave
Ci
t
r
u
s
A
v
e
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 18
PROJECT IMPACT ANALYSIS
SHORT-TERM CONSTRUCTION NOISE IMPACTS
Two types of short-term noise impacts could occur during the construction of the proposed project.
First, construction crew commutes and the transport of construction equipment and materials to
the site for the proposed project would incrementally increase noise levels on access roads leading
to the site. Although there would be a relatively high single-event noise-exposure potential causing
intermittent noise nuisance (passing trucks at 50 ft would generate up to 84 dBA Lmax), the effect on
longer-term ambient noise levels would be small when compared to existing daily traffic volumes on
roadways accessing the project site. Because construction-related vehicle trips would not approach
existing daily traffic volumes, traffic noise would not increase by 3 dBA CNEL. A noise level increase
of less than 3 dBA would not be perceptible to the human ear in an outdoor environment.
Therefore, short-term, construction-related impacts associated with worker commute and
equipment transport to the project site would be less than significant.
The second type of short-term noise impact is related to noise generated during construction, which
includes site preparation, grading, building construction, paving, and architectural coating on the
project site. Construction is completed in discrete steps, each of which has its own mix of equipment
and, consequently, its own noise characteristics. These various sequential phases would change the
character of the noise generated on the site and, therefore, the noise levels surrounding the site as
construction progresses. Despite the variety in the type and size of construction equipment,
similarities in the dominant noise sources and patterns of operation allow construction-related
noise ranges to be categorized by work phase. Table H lists typical construction equipment noise
levels recommended for noise impact assessments, based on a distance of 50 ft between the
equipment and a noise receptor, taken from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Roadway
Construction Noise Model (FHWA 2006).
In addition to the reference maximum noise level, the usage factor provided in Table H is used to
calculate the hourly noise level impact for each piece of equipment based on the following
equation:
−+=50log20.).log(10..)(DFULEequipLeq
where: Leq (equip) = Leq at a receiver resulting from the operation of a single
piece of equipment over a specified time period.
E.L. = noise emission level of the particular piece of equipment at
a reference distance of 50 ft.
U.F. = usage factor that accounts for the fraction of time that the
equipment is in use over the specified period of time.
D = distance from the receiver to the piece of equipment.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 19
Table H: Typical Construction Equipment Noise Levels
Equipment Description Acoustical Usage Factor (%)1 Maximum Noise Level (Lmax) at 50 Feet2
Auger Drill Rig 20 84
Backhoes 40 80
Compactor (ground) 20 80
Compressor 40 80
Cranes 16 85
Dozers 40 85
Dump Trucks 40 84
Excavators 40 85
Flat Bed Trucks 40 84
Forklift 20 85
Front-end Loaders 40 80
Graders 40 85
Impact Pile Drivers 20 95
Jackhammers 20 85
Paver 50 77
Pickup Truck 40 55
Pneumatic Tools 50 85
Pumps 50 77
Rock Drills 20 85
Rollers 20 85
Scrapers 40 85
Tractors 40 84
Trencher 50 80
Welder 40 73
Source: FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model User’s Guide, Table 1 (FHWA 2006). Note: Noise levels reported in this table are rounded to the nearest whole number.
1 Usage factor is the percentage of time during a construction noise operation that a piece of construction equipment is operating at full power.
2 Maximum noise levels were developed based on Specification 721.560 from the Central Artery/
Tunnel program to be consistent with the City of Boston’s Noise Code for the “Big Dig” project. FHWA = Federal Highway Administration Lmax = maximum instantaneous sound level
Each piece of construction equipment operates as an individual point source. Using the following
equation, a composite noise level can be calculated when multiple sources of noise operate
simultaneously:
𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿 (𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝐿𝐿)=10 ∗log10 ��10𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿10𝐿𝐿
1 �
Using the equations from the methodology above, the reference information in Table H, and the
construction equipment list provided, the composite noise level of each construction phase was
calculated. The project construction composite noise levels at a distance of 50 feet would range
from 74 dBA Leq to 88 dBA Leq, with the highest noise levels occurring during the site preparation and
grading phases.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 20
Once composite noise levels are calculated, reference noise levels can then be adjusted for distance
using the following equation: 𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿 (𝑎𝑎𝑐𝑐 𝑑𝑑𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑐𝑎𝑎𝑑𝑑𝑐𝑐𝐿𝐿 𝑋𝑋)=𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿 (𝑎𝑎𝑐𝑐 50 𝑓𝑓𝐿𝐿𝐿𝐿𝑐𝑐)−20 ∗lo g10 �𝑋𝑋50�
In general, this equation shows that doubling the distance would decrease noise levels by 6 dBA,
while halving the distance would increase noise levels by 6 dBA.
Table I shows the nearest sensitive uses to the project site, their distance from the center of
construction activities, and composite noise levels expected during construction. These noise level
projections do not consider intervening topography or barriers. Construction equipment calculations
are provided in Appendix B.
Table I: Potential Construction Noise Impacts at Nearest Receptor
Receptor (Location) Composite Noise Level
(dBA Leq) at 50 feet1 Distance (feet) Composite Noise
Level (dBA Leq)
Residences (East and West)
88
245 75
Residences (North) 340 72
Residences (South) 390 71
Source: Compiled by LSA (2023).
1 The composite construction noise level represents the grading/site preparation phases, which are expected to result in
the greatest noise level as compared to other phases.
dBA = A-weighted decibels
Leq = equivalent continuous sound level
While construction noise will vary, it is expected that composite noise levels during construction at
the nearest off-site sensitive residential use to the east and west would reach an average noise level
of 75 dBA Leq during daytime hours. These predicted noise levels would only occur when all
construction equipment is operating simultaneously and, therefore, are assumed to be rather
conservative in nature. While construction-related short-term noise levels have the potential to be
higher than existing ambient noise levels in the project area under existing conditions, the noise
impacts would no longer occur once project construction is completed.
As stated above, noise impacts associated with construction activities are regulated by the City’s
noise ordinance. The proposed project would comply with the construction hours specified in the
City’s Noise Ordinance, which states that construction activities are allowed between the hours of
7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on
Saturdays except in the case of urgent necessity.
As it relates to off-site uses, construction-related noise impacts would remain below the 80 dBA Leq
construction noise level criteria, as established by the FTA for residential land uses for the average
daily condition as modeled from the center of the project site and therefore would be considered
less than significant. Best construction practices presented at the end of this analysis shall be
implemented to minimize noise impacts to surrounding receptors.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 21
SHORT-TERM CONSTRUCTION VIBRATION IMPACTS
This construction vibration impact analysis discusses the level of human annoyance using vibration
levels in RMS (VdB) and assesses the potential for building damages using vibration levels in PPV
(in/sec). This is because vibration levels calculated in RMS are best for characterizing human
response to building vibration, while calculating vibration levels in PPV is best for characterizing the
potential for damage.
Table J shows the PPV and VdB values at 25 ft from the construction vibration source. As shown in
Table J, bulldozers and other heavy-tracked construction equipment (expected to be used for this
project) generate approximately 0.089 PPV in/sec or 87 VdB of ground-borne vibration when
measured at 25 ft, based on the FTA Manual. The distance to the nearest buildings for vibration
impact analysis is measured between the nearest off-site buildings and the project construction
boundary (assuming the construction equipment would be used at or near the project setback line).
Table J: Vibration Source Amplitudes for Construction Equipment
Equipment Reference PPV/LV at 25 ft
PPV (in/sec) LV (VdB)1
Pile Driver (Impact), Typical 0.644 104
Pile Driver (Sonic), Typical 0.170 93
Vibratory Roller 0.210 94
Hoe Ram 0.089 87
Large Bulldozer2 0.089 87
Caisson Drilling 0.089 87
Loaded Trucks2 0.076 86
Jackhammer 0.035 79
Small Bulldozer 0.003 58
Source: Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual (FTA 2018).
1 RMS vibration velocity in decibels (VdB) is 1 µin/sec.
2 Equipment shown in bold is expected to be used on site. µin/sec = microinches per second
ft = foot/feet
FTA = Federal Transit Administration
in/sec = inch/inches per second
LV = velocity in decibels
PPV = peak particle velocity
RMS = root-mean-square
VdB = vibration velocity decibels
The formulae for vibration transmission are provided below, and Tables K and L provide a summary
of off-site construction vibration levels.
LvdB (D) = LvdB (25 ft) – 30 Log (D/25)
PPVequip = PPVref x (25/D)1.5
As shown in Table E, above, the threshold at which vibration levels would result in annoyance would
be 78 VdB for daytime residential uses. As shown in Table F, the FTA guidelines indicate that for a
non-engineered timber and masonry building, the construction vibration damage criterion is
0.2 in/sec in PPV.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 22
Table K: Potential Construction Vibration Annoyance Impacts at
Nearest Receptor
Receptor
(Location)
Reference Vibration Level
(VdB) at 25 ft1 Distance (ft) 2 Vibration Level
(VdB)
Residences (East and West)
87
245 57
Residences
(North) 340 53
Residences (South) 390 51
Source: Compiled by LSA (2023).
1 The reference vibration level is associated with a large bulldozer, which is expected to be representative of the heavy equipment used during construction.
2 The reference distance is associated with the average condition, identified by the distance from
the center of construction activities to surrounding uses. ft = foot/feet VdB = vibration velocity decibels
Table L: Potential Construction Vibration Damage Impacts at
Nearest Receptor
Receptor (Location) Reference Vibration Level (PPV) at 25 ft1 Distance (ft)2 Vibration Level (PPV)
Residences
(East and West)
0.089
5 0.995
Residences (North) 17 0.159
Residences
(South) 50 0.031
Source: Compiled by LSA (2023).
1 The reference vibration level is associated with a large bulldozer, which is expected to be
representative of the heavy equipment used during construction.
2 The reference distance is associated with the peak condition, identified by the distance from the perimeter of construction activities to surrounding structures. ft = foot/feet PPV = peak particle velocity
Based on the information provided in Table K, vibration levels are expected to approach 57 VdB at
the closest residential uses located immediately east and west of the project site, which is below the
78 VdB threshold for annoyance.
Based on the information provided in Table L, vibration levels are expected to approach 0.995 PPV
in/sec at the nearest surrounding structures and would exceed the 0.2 PPV in/sec damage threshold
considered safe for non-engineered timber and masonry buildings, which would result in a
potentially significant impact. Vibration levels at all other buildings would be lower. Therefore,
construction would not result in any vibration damage, and impacts would be less than significant
with the incorporation of MM-NOI-1 as detailed below.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 23
MM-NOI-1 Construction Vibration Damage. Due to the close proximity to
surrounding structures, the City of Fontana (City) Director of
Community Development, or designee, shall verify prior to issuance
of demolition or grading permits, that the approved plans require
that the construction contractor shall implement the following
mitigation measures during project construction activities to ensure
that damage does not occur at surrounding structures:
• A 15-foot buffer between existing structures and the Project
site area shall be clearly delineated with stakes, fencing or
other conspicuous boundary markings, to outline the area in
which the use of heavy equipment shall be avoided.
• The use of heavy construction shall be avoided within 15 feet
of existing surrounding structures.
• However, if the use of heavy equipment is required within 15
feet of surrounding structures, the following measures
should be employed:
o Identify structures that are located within 15 feet (ft)
of heavy construction activities and that have the
potential to be affected by ground-borne vibration.
This task shall be conducted by a qualified structural
engineer as approved by the City’s Director of
Community Development, or designee.
o Develop a vibration monitoring and construction
contingency plan for approval by the City Director of
Community Development, or designee, to identify
structures where monitoring would be conducted;
set up a vibration monitoring schedule; define
structure-specific vibration limits; and address the
need to conduct photo, elevation, and crack surveys
to document before and after construction
conditions. Construction contingencies would be
identified for when vibration levels approached the
limits.
o At a minimum, monitor vibration during initial
demolition activities. Monitoring results may
indicate the need for more or less intensive
measurements.
o When vibration levels approach limits, suspend
construction and implement contingencies as
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 24
identified in the approved vibration monitoring and
construction contingency plan to either lower
vibration levels or secure the affected structures.
Because construction activities are regulated by the City’s Municipal Code, which states that
temporary construction, maintenance, or demolition activities are allowed between the hours of
7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on
Saturdays except in the case of urgent necessity, vibration impacts would not occur during the more
sensitive nighttime hours.
LONG-TERM OFF-SITE TRAFFIC NOISE IMPACTS
In order to assess the potential traffic impacts related to the proposed project, LSA estimates that
the proposed project would result in an increase of 453 average daily trips (ADT). The existing (2016)
average daily trips on Citrus Avenue is 24,800 (City of Fontana General Plan Community Mobility and
Circulation Element 2018a). While the current traffic volume on Citrus Avenue is likely higher, using
the 2016 volumes would be considered conservative. The following equation was used to determine
the potential impacts of the project:
Change in CNEL = 10 𝑙𝑙𝑐𝑐𝑙𝑙10 [𝑉𝑉(𝑒𝑒+𝑝𝑝)/𝑉𝑉(𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝑒𝐿𝐿𝑒𝑒)]
where: Vexisting = existing daily volumes
Ve+p = existing daily volumes plus project
Change in CNEL = increase in noise level due to the project
The results of the calculations show that an increase of approximately 0.1 dBA CNEL is expected
along Citrus Avenue. A noise level increase of less than 1 dBA would not be perceptible to the
human ear; therefore, the traffic noise increase in the vicinity of the project site resulting from the
proposed project would be less than significant. For adjacent local roads, it is assumed the project
traffic would be distributed across Chase Road and Cascade Road thus minimizing traffic noise
increases. No mitigation is required.
STATIONARY OPERATIONAL NOISE IMPACTS TO OFF-SITE RECEIVERS
It expected that the proposed residential uses would install heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
(HVAC) equipment. It is expected that the equipment installed at each home would comply with the
City’s noise standards presented in Table C. Additionally, the project also proposes to construction
of a neighborhood recreation area. Typical activities at a neighborhood park are not expected to
generate excessive noise levels and would occur during daytime hours.
LONG-TERM TRAFFIC-RELATED VIBRATION IMPACTS
The proposed project would not generate vibration levels related to on-site operations. In addition,
vibration levels generated from project-related traffic on the adjacent roadways are unusual for
on-road vehicles because the rubber tires and suspension systems of on-road vehicles provide
vibration isolation. Vibration levels generated from project-related traffic on the adjacent roadways
would be less than significant, and no mitigation measures are required.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 25
LAND USE COMPATIBILITY
The dominant source of noise in the project vicinity is traffic noise from roadways in the vicinity of
the project.
EXTERIOR NOISE ASSESSMENT
To assess exterior noise levels at the proposed residential uses project site, as shown in Table G,
long-term noise level measurements were gathered. The daily noise levels show that noise levels at
the project site approach 60 dBA CNEL. Furthermore, hourly noise levels at the project site are as
high as 54.6 dBA Leq during nighttime hours and 58.3 dBA Leq during daytime hours. As specified
above, for residential uses, an exterior noise level of 65 dBA or less is acceptable. Because exterior
noise levels at the project site are considered acceptable, no exterior noise mitigation is required.
INTERIOR NOISE ASSESSMENT
As discussed above, per the California Code of Regulations, an interior noise level standard of
45 dBA CNEL or less is required for all noise-sensitive rooms. Based on the expected future exterior
noise levels at the project site approaching 60 dBA CNEL, a minimum noise reduction of 15 dBA
would be required.
Based on reference information from transmission loss test reports for various Milgard windows
(Milgard 2008), standard building construction along with standard windows, typically in the Sound
Transmission Class (STC) 25–28 range, a reduction of 25 dBA or more would be achieved. With a
reduction of 25 dBA or more, interior noise levels would remain below the interior noise level
standard of 45 dBA CNEL.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 26
BEST CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES
In addition to compliance with the City’s Municipal Code allowed hours of construction between
7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on
Saturdays except in the case of urgent necessity, the following best construction practices would
further minimize construction noise impacts:
• The project construction contractor shall equip all construction equipment, fixed or mobile, with
properly operating and maintained noise mufflers consistent with manufacturer’s standards.
• The project construction contractor shall locate staging areas away from off-site sensitive uses
during the later phases of project development.
• The project construction contractor shall place all stationary construction equipment so that
emitted noise is directed away from sensitive receptors nearest the project site whenever
feasible.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23» 27
REFERENCES
City of Fontana. 2018a. General Plan Community Mobility and Circulation Element. November.
_______. 2018b. General Plan Noise Element. November.
_______. 2022. Zoning and Development Code. Website:
https://library.municode.com/ca/fontana/codes/zoning_and_development_code (accessed
January 2023).
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). 2006. Roadway Construction Noise Model User’s Guide.
January. Washington, D.C. Website: www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/construction_
noise/rcnm/rcnm.pdf (accessed March 2022).
Federal Transit Administration (FTA). 2018. Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment Manual.
Office of Planning and Environment. Report No. 0123. September.
Harris, Cyril M., editor. 1991. Handbook of Acoustical Measurements and Noise Control.
Third Edition.
Milgard. 2008. Various Transmission Loss Reports.
Ontario International Airport. 2018. Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan (ONT ALUCP) Policy Map 2-
3: Noise Impact Zones.
State of California. 2020. 2019 California Green Building Standards Code.
United States Environmental Protection Agency. 1978. Protective Noise Levels, Condensed Version of
EPA Levels Document, EPA 550/9-79-100. November.
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23»
APPENDIX A
NOISE MONITORING DATA
Noise Measurement Survey – 24 HR
Project Number: ESL2201.54 Test Personnel: Kevin Nguyendo
Project Name: Chase Residential Equipment: Spark 706RC (SN:119) Site Number: LT-1 Date: 1/11/23 Time: From 12:00 p.m. To 12:00 p.m.
Site Location: Located west of Chase Road and Sgt Bryan Brewster Drive on the nearest
Palm tree. Primary Noise Sources: Traffic noise entering the residential community.
Comments:
Photo:
Long-Term (24-Hour) Noise Level Measurement Results at LT-1
Start Time Date Noise Level (dBA) Leq Lmax Lmin 12:00 PM 1/11/23 42.9 56.3 36.5
1:00 PM 1/11/23 44.3 61.5 36.7
2:00 PM 1/11/23 46.9 60.3 37.0
3:00 PM 1/11/23 44.1 58.7 36.4
4:00 PM 1/11/23 44.7 63.4 36.4
5:00 PM 1/11/23 46.1 59.2 38.3
6:00 PM 1/11/23 48.0 62.1 36.9
7:00 PM 1/11/23 46.2 61.1 39.2
8:00 PM 1/11/23 46.3 60.2 41.7
9:00 PM 1/11/23 45.9 58.7 39.7
10:00 PM 1/11/23 43.1 58.6 39.2
11:00 PM 1/11/23 44.7 64.1 39.6
12:00 AM 1/12/23 43.9 61.4 39.3
1:00 AM 1/12/23 42.3 52.7 38.4
2:00 AM 1/12/23 41.4 50.1 38.5
3:00 AM 1/12/23 42.6 51.7 39.4
4:00 AM 1/12/23 45.8 62.9 41.6
5:00 AM 1/12/23 47.2 60.4 41.8
6:00 AM 1/12/23 48.6 61.1 43.6
7:00 AM 1/12/23 50.6 65.6 46.1
8:00 AM 1/12/23 50.1 64.4 43.7
9:00 AM 1/12/23 46.3 63.0 39.7
10:00 AM 1/12/23 44.2 65.0 38.3
11:00 AM 1/12/23 42.2 63.4 38.2
Source: Compiled by LSA Associates, Inc. (2022). dBA = A-weighted decibel Leq = equivalent continuous sound level Lmax = maximum instantaneous noise level Lmin = minimum measured sound level
Noise Measurement Survey – 24 HR
Project Number: ESL2201.54 Test Personnel: Kevin Nguyendo Project Name: Chase Residential Equipment: Spark 706RC (SN:224)
Site Number: LT-2 Date: 1/11/23 Time: From 12:00 p.m. To 12:00 p.m.
Site Location: Located south of a residential home at 15935 Allison Way, Fontana, CA 92336 on the project site.
Primary Noise Sources: Traffic noise entering the residential community.
Comments: Approximately 136 inch retaining wall surrounding residential home.
Photo:
Long-Term (24-Hour) Noise Level Measurement Results at LT-2
Start Time Date Noise Level (dBA) Leq Lmax Lmin 12:00 PM 1/11/23 51.1 64.3 40.1
1:00 PM 1/11/23 49.1 62.6 39.3
2:00 PM 1/11/23 54.5 71.2 40.9
3:00 PM 1/11/23 49.8 66.1 38.9
4:00 PM 1/11/23 50.5 64.0 37.0
5:00 PM 1/11/23 51.2 69.9 37.8
6:00 PM 1/11/23 52.8 63.9 38.3
7:00 PM 1/11/23 53.7 67.7 45.9
8:00 PM 1/11/23 53.1 70.3 45.8
9:00 PM 1/11/23 52.9 65.6 46.0
10:00 PM 1/11/23 53.0 65.8 45.8
11:00 PM 1/11/23 51.1 66.1 42.9
12:00 AM 1/12/23 50.5 67.2 43.4
1:00 AM 1/12/23 49.6 61.2 43.0
2:00 AM 1/12/23 53.0 59.6 46.4
3:00 AM 1/12/23 51.5 59.2 46.7
4:00 AM 1/12/23 52.8 61.4 48.0
5:00 AM 1/12/23 53.7 67.5 49.3
6:00 AM 1/12/23 54.6 64.3 45.8
7:00 AM 1/12/23 56.4 76.6 48.7
8:00 AM 1/12/23 58.3 75.7 50.7
9:00 AM 1/12/23 55.2 71.4 42.0
10:00 AM 1/12/23 53.0 78.6 44.8
11:00 AM 1/12/23 53.2 77.5 45.2
Source: Compiled by LSA Associates, Inc. (2022). dBA = A-weighted decibel Leq = equivalent continuous sound level Lmax = maximum instantaneous noise level Lmin = minimum measured sound level
NOISE AND VIBRATION IMPACT ANALYSIS FEBRUARY 2023 CHASE ROAD RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT FONTANA, CALIFORNIA
P:\ESL2201.54\PRODUCTS\Noise\Chase Road Residential Development N&V Report_02212023.docx «02/21/23»
APPENDIX B
CONSTRUCTION NOISE CALCULATIONS
Phase: Site Preparation
Lmax Leq
Dozer 3 82 40 50 0.5 82 83
Tractor 4 84 40 50 0.5 84 86
Combined at 50 feet 86 88
Phase: Grading
Lmax Leq
Excavator 2 81 40 50 0.5 81 80
Grader 1 85 40 50 0.5 85 81
Dozer 1 82 40 50 0.5 82 78
Scraper 2 84 40 50 0.5 84 83
Tractor 2 84 40 50 0.5 84 83
Combined at 50 feet 90 88
Combined at Receptor 245 feet 77 75
Combined at Receptor 340 feet 74 72
Combined at Receptor 390 feet 73 71
Phase:Building Construstion
Lmax Leq
Crane 1 81 16 50 0.5 81 73
Man Lift 3 75 20 50 0.5 75 73
Generator 1 81 50 50 0.5 81 78
Tractor 3 84 40 50 0.5 84 85
Welder / Torch 1 74 40 50 0.5 74 70
Combined at 50 feet 87 86
Phase:Paving
Equipment Quantity
Reference (dBA)
50 ft Lmax
Usage
Factor1 Distance to
Receptor (ft)
Ground
Effects
Lmax Leq
Paver 2 77 50 50 0.5 77 77
All Other Equipment > 5 HP 2 85 50 50 0.5 85 85
Roller 2 80 20 50 0.5 80 76
Combined at 50 feet 87 86
Phase:Architectural Coating
Equipment Quantity
Reference (dBA)
50 ft Lmax
Usage
Factor1 Distance to
Receptor (ft)
Ground
Effects
Lmax Leq
Compressor (air)1 78 40 50 0.5 78 74
Combined at 50 feet 78 74
Combined at Receptor 245 feet 64 60
Sources: RCNM
1- Percentage of time that a piece of equipment is operating at full power.
dBA – A-weighted Decibels
Lmax- Maximum Level
Leq- Equivalent Level
Noise Level (dBA)
Construction Calculations
Equipment Quantity
Reference (dBA)
50 ft Lmax
Usage
Factor1 Distance to
Receptor (ft)
Ground
Effects
Noise Level (dBA)
Noise Level (dBA)
Ground
Effects
Noise Level (dBA)Equipment Quantity
Reference (dBA)
50 ft Lmax
Usage
Factor1
Distance to
Receptor (ft)
Noise Level (dBA)Equipment Quantity
Reference (dBA)
50 ft Lmax
Usage
Factor1 Distance to
Receptor (ft)
Ground
Effects