Highway Noise Barriers: New Funding and Multipurpose Use
New rules allow federal highway funds to be used for building noise barriers near highways, aiming to reduce noise for residents, especially in older, residential areas. The act also introduces the possibility of constructing multipurpose barriers that can serve, for example, renewable energy generation.
Key points
Increased Funding for Noise Barriers: Highway Trust Fund money can now be used for noise barrier construction, potentially improving quality of life near roads.
Protection for Older Neighborhoods: New rules specifically support barrier construction where residential homes predate highway construction and are over 10 years old.
Multipurpose Barriers: It will be possible to build barriers that, in addition to noise reduction, can generate solar energy or support internet infrastructure.
Aesthetics Matter: The design of noise barriers will consider their appearance to better blend with the surroundings.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_6801
Sponsor: Rep. Williams, Nikema [D-GA-5]
Process start date: 2022-02-18