Table of Contents. 3.0 Regulatory Setting Federal Regulations State Regulations City of Azusa Noise Regulations 3-2

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5 Table of Contents Section Page 1. Introduction Purpose of Analysis and Study Objectives Site Location and Study Area Proposed Project Description Fundamentals of Noise Sound, Noise and Acoustics Frequency and Hertz Sound Pressure Levels and Decibels Addition of Decibels Human Responses to Changes in Noise Levels Noise Descriptors Traffic Noise Prediction Sound Propagation Regulatory Setting Federal Regulations State Regulations City of Azusa Noise Regulations Study Method and Procedures Measurement Procedures and Criteria Noise Measurements Noise Measurement Locations Noise Measurement Timing and Climate Traffic Noise Modeling Stationary Noise Modeling Existing Noise Environment Short-Term Noise Measurement Results Modeled Existing Traffic Noise Levels Future Noise Environment and Impacts Future Exterior Noise Traffic Source Noise Stationary Source Noise Summary of Mitigation Requirements Construction Noise Impacts Construction Noise Construction Noise Reduction Measures References

6 Exhibits List of Attachments Location Map... Site Plan... Noise Monitoring Locations... Recommendations... A B C D Tables Arterial Highway Hourly Traffic Flow Distribution... 1 Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes and Traffic Speeds... 2 Noise Level Measurements... 3 Existing (Without Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN)... 4 Existing (With Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN)... 5 Change in Existing Noise Levels as a Result of Project (dba LDN)... 6 Buildout 216 (Without Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN)... 7 Building 216 (With Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN)... 8 Change in Buildout 216 Existing Noise Levels as a Result of Project (dba LDN)... 9 Typical Construction Noise Levels... 1 Appendices City of Azusa Noise Element and Noise Ordinance... Photographs and Field Measurements... Traffic Data... Traffic Noise Calculations (LDN)... Stationary Noise Calculation Worksheets... A B C D E

7 1. Introduction 1.1 Purpose of Analysis and Study Objectives This noise assessment was prepared to evaluate whether the potential noise impacts associated with the project would cause a significant impact to the nearest sensitive receivers. The assessment was conducted and compared to the noise standards set-forth by the Federal, State and Local agencies. Consistent with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines, a significant impact related to noise would occur if a proposed project is determined to result in: Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local General Plan or noise ordinance, or applicable agencies. Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ground bourne vibration or ground bourne noise levels A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels For a project within the vicinity of private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels The following is provided in this report: A description of the study area and the proposed project Information regarding the fundamentals of noise A description of the local noise guidelines and standards An exterior/interior analysis of traffic noise impacts to the project study area Construction noise analysis 1.2 Site Location and Study Area The project site is located at 31 Aerojet Avenue in the City of Azusa, California. The project site is bounded by industrial land use to the north, east, west and open land to the south as illustrated in Exhibit A. The project vicinity is characterized by a mix of developed properties. Developed properties in the vicinity include industrial land uses to the north, east and west. The project site is vacant and relatively flat. The site is located approximately 556 feet above mean sea level. 1-1

8 There are no immediate sensitive receptors within 3 meters of the project site however for analytical purposes this study assess the potential change in noise levels as a result of the project. 1.3 Proposed Project Description The project consists of three (3) buildings (164, square feet of warehouse and 19,4 square feet of office) on approximately 8.35 acres. Building A has approximately 24,1 square feet of warehouse space, 2,5 square feet of office space, and 2,5 square feet of mezzanine. Building B has approximately 42,4 square feet of warehouse space, 3,2 square feet of office space, and 3,2 square feet of mezzanine. Building C has approximately 97,5 square feet of warehouse space, 4, square feet of office space, and 4, square feet of mezzanine. The project provides a total of 23 parking spaces. The proposed project site plan used for this analysis, provided by G A A Architects, is illustrated in Exhibit B. 1-2

9 2. Fundamentals of Noise This section of the report provides basic information about noise and presents some of the terms used within the report. 2.1 Sound, Noise and Acoustics Sound is a disturbance created by a moving or vibrating source and is capable of being detected by the hearing organs. Sound may be thought of as mechanical energy of a moving object transmitted by pressure waves through a medium to a human ear. For traffic, or stationary noise, the medium of concern is air. Noise is defined as sound that is loud, unpleasant, unexpected, or unwanted. 2.2 Frequency and Hertz A continuous sound is described by its frequency (pitch) and its amplitude (loudness). Frequency relates to the number of pressure oscillations per second. Low-frequency sounds are low in pitch (bass sounding) and high-frequency sounds are high in pitch (squeak). These oscillations per second (cycles) are commonly referred to as Hertz (Hz). The human ear can hear from the bass pitch starting out at 2 Hz all the way to the high pitch of 2, Hz. 2.3 Sound Pressure Levels and Decibels The amplitude of a sound determines it loudness. The loudness of sound increases or decreases as the amplitude increases or decreases. Sound pressure amplitude is measure in units of micro-newton per square inch meter (N/m2), also called micro-pascal (μpa). One μpa is approximately one hundred billionths (.1) of normal atmospheric pressure. Sound pressure level (SPL or Lp) is used to describe in logarithmic units the ratio of actual sound pressures to a reference pressure squared. These units are called decibels abbreviated db. 2.4 Addition of Decibels Because decibels are on a logarithmic scale, sound pressure levels cannot be added or subtracted by simple plus or minus addition. When two sounds or equal SPL are combined, they will produce an SPL 3 db greater than the original single SPL. In other words, sound energy must be doubled to produce a 3 db increase. If two sounds differ by approximately 1 db, the higher sound level is the predominant sound. 2-1

10 2.5 Human Response to Changes in Noise Levels In general the healthy human ear is most sensitive to sounds between 1, Hz and 5, Hz, (A-weighted scale) and it perceives a sound within that range as being more intense than a sound with a higher or lower frequency with the same magnitude. For purposes of this report as well as with most environmental documents, the A-scale weighting is typically reported in terms of A-weighted decibel (dba). Typically the human ear can barely perceive the change in noise level of 3 db. A change in 5 db is readily perceptible, and a change in 1 db is perceived as being twice or half as loud. As previously discussed, a doubling of sound energy results in a 3 db increase in sound, which means that a doubling of sound energy (e.g. doubling the volume of traffic on a highway) would result in a barely perceptible change in sound level. 2.6 Noise Descriptors Noise in our daily environment fluctuates over time. Some noise levels occur in regular patterns other are random. Some noise levels are constant while others are sporadic. Noise descriptors were created to describe the different time-varying noise levels. The following indicates the most commonly used noise descriptors and gives a brief definition. A-Weighted Sound Level The sound pressure level in decibels as measured on a sound level meter using the A-weighted filter network. The A-weighting filter de-emphasizes the very low and very high frequency components of the sound in a manner similar to the response of the human ear. A numerical method of rating human judgment of loudness. Ambient Noise Level The composite of noise from all sources, near and far. In this context, the ambient noise level constitutes the normal or existing level of environmental noise at a given location. Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) The average equivalent A-weighted sound level during a 24-hour day, obtained after addition of five (5) decibels to sound levels in the evening from 7: to 1: PM and after addition of ten (1) decibels to sound levels in the night before 7: AM and after 1: PM. Decibel (db) A unit for measuring the amplitude of a sound, equal to 2 times the logarithm to the base 1 of the ratio of the pressure of the sound measured to the reference pressure, which is 2 micro-pascals. db(a) A-weighted sound level (see definition above). 2-2

11 Equivalent Sound Level (LEQ) The sound level corresponding to a steady noise level over a given sample period with the same amount of acoustic energy as the actual time varying noise level. The energy average noise level during the sample period. Habitable Room Any room meeting the requirements of the Uniform Building Code or other applicable regulations which is intended to be used for sleeping, living, cooking or dining purposes, excluding such enclosed spaces as closets, pantries, bath or toilet rooms, service rooms, connecting corridors, laundries, unfinished attics, foyers, storage spaces, cellars, utility rooms, and similar spaces. L(n) The A-weighted sound level exceeded during a certain percentage of the sample time. For example, L1 in the sound level exceeded 1 percent of the sample time. Similarly L5, L9 and L99, etc. Noise Any unwanted sound or sound which is undesirable because it interferes with speech and hearing, or is intense enough to damage hearing, or is otherwise annoying. The State Noise Control Act defines noise as "...excessive undesirable sound Traffic Noise Prediction Noise levels associated with traffic depends on a variety of factors: (1) volume of traffic, (2) speed of traffic, (3) auto, medium truck (2 3 axle) and heavy truck percentage (4 axle and greater), and sound propagation. The greater the volume of traffic, higher speeds and truck percentages equate to a louder volume in noise. A doubling of the Average Daily Traffic (ADT) along a roadway will increase noise levels by approximately 3 db; reasons for this are discussed in the sections above. Outdoor Living Area Outdoor spaces that are associated with residential land uses typically used for passive recreational activities or other noise-sensitive uses. Such spaces include patio areas, barbecue areas, jacuzzi areas, etc. associated with residential uses; outdoor patient recovery or resting areas associated with hospitals, convalescent hospitals, or rest homes; outdoor areas associated with places of worship which have a significant role in services or other noise-sensitive activities; and outdoor school facilities routinely used for educational purposes which may be adversely impacted by noise. Outdoor areas usually not included in this definition are: front yard areas, driveways, greenbelts, maintenance areas and storage areas associated with residential land uses; exterior areas at hospitals that are not used for patient activities; outdoor areas associated with places of worship and principally 2-3

12 used for short-term social gatherings; and, outdoor areas associated with school facilities that are not typically associated with educational uses prone to adverse noise impacts (for example, school play yard areas). Percent Noise Levels See L(n). Sound Level (Noise Level) The weighted sound pressure level obtained by use of a sound level meter having a standard frequency-filter for attenuating part of the sound spectrum. Sound Level Meter An instrument, including a microphone, an amplifier, an output meter, and frequency weighting networks for the measurement and determination of noise and sound levels. Single Event Noise Exposure Level (SENEL) The dba level which, if it lasted for one (1) second, would produce the same A-weighted sound energy as the actual event. 2.8 Sound Propagation As sound propagates from a source it spreads geometrically. Sound from a small, localized source (i.e., a point source) radiates uniformly outward as it travels away from the source in a spherical pattern. The sound level attenuates at a rate of 6 db per doubling of distance. The movement of vehicles down a roadway makes the source of the sound appear to propagate from a line (i.e., line source) rather than a point source. This line source results in the noise propagating from a roadway in a cylindrical spreading versus a spherical spreading that results from a point source. The sound level attenuates for a line source at a rate of 3 db per doubling of distance. As noise propagates from the source, it is affected by the ground and atmosphere. Noise models use hard site (reflective surfaces) and soft site (absorptive surfaces) to help calculate predicted noise levels. Hard site conditions assume no excessive ground absorption between the noise source and the receiver. Soft site conditions such as grass, soft dirt or landscaping attenuate noise at a rate of 1.5 db per doubling of distance. When added to the geometric spreading, the excess ground attenuation results in an overall noise attenuation of 4.5 db per doubling of distance for a line source and 6 db per doubling of distance for a point source. Research has demonstrated that atmospheric conditions can have a significant effect on noise levels when noise receivers are located 2 feet from a noise source. Wind, temperature, air humidity and turbulence can further impact have far sound can travel. 2-4

13 This noise assessment was prepared to evaluate whether the potential noise impacts associated with the project would cause a significant impact to the nearest sensitive receptor. 2-5

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15 3. Regulatory Setting The proposed project is located in the City of Azusa and noise regulations are addressed through the efforts of various federal, state and local government agencies. The agencies responsible for regulating noise are discussed below. 3.1 Federal Regulations The adverse impact of noise was officially recognized by the federal government in the Noise Control Act of 1972, which serves three purposes: Publicize noise emission standards for interstate commerce Assist state and local abatement efforts Promote noise education and research The Federal Office of Noise Abatement and Control (ONAC) originally was tasked with implementing the Noise Control Act. However, it was eventually eliminated leaving other federal agencies and committees to develop noise policies and programs. Some examples of these agencies are as follows: The Department of Transportation (DOT) assumed a significant role in noise control through its various agencies. The Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) is responsible to regulate noise from aircraft and airports. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is responsible to regulate noise from the interstate highway system. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for the prohibition of excessive noise exposure to workers. The federal government advocates that local jurisdiction use their land use regulatory authority to arrange new development in such a way that noise sensitive uses are either prohibited from being constructed adjacent to a highway or, or alternatively that the developments are planned and constructed in such a manner that potential noise impacts are minimized. Since the federal government has preempted the setting of standards for noise levels that can be emitted by the transportation source, the City is restricted to regulating the noise generated by the transportation system through nuisance abatement ordinances and land use planning. 3.2 State Regulations Established in 1973, the California Department of Health Services Office of Noise Control (ONC) was instrumental in developing regularity tools to control and abate noise for use by local agencies. One significant model is the Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments Matrix. The matrix allows the local jurisdiction to clearly delineate compatibility of sensitive uses with various incremental levels of noise. 3-1

16 The State of California has established noise insulation standards as outlined in Title 24 and the Uniform Building Code (UBC) which in some cases requires acoustical analyses to outline exterior noise levels and to ensure interior noise levels do not exceed the interior threshold. The State mandates that the legislative body of each City and city adopt a noise element as part of its comprehensive general plan. The local noise element must recognize the land use compatibility guidelines published by the State Department of Health Services. The guidelines rank noise land use compatibility in terms of normally acceptable, conditionally acceptable, normally unacceptable, and clearly unacceptable. 3.3 City of Azusa Noise Regulations The City of Azusa outlines their noise regulations and standards within the Noise Element from the General Plan and Municipal Code (Appendix A). For purposes of this analysis, the City s Noise Ordinance (Section (C)) is used to evaluate the noise impacts to and from the proposed project. The following summarizes Section : C. Noise Source Standards. 1. Noise Level Limitations. No use, activity, or process within the city shall generate noise in excess of the levels identified by Tables 3-3 and 3-4, as the noise is measured at the property line of a noise sensitive land use identified in Tables 3-3 and 3-4. a. If the measured ambient noise level exceeds the applicable noise level standard in any category shown in Table 3-3, the applicable standards shall be adjusted to equal the ambient noise level. b. If the intruding noise source is continuous and cannot reasonably be discontinued or stopped to allow measurement of the ambient noise level, the noise level measured while the source is in operation shall be compared directly to the applicable noise level standards identified in Table 3-3. Notwithstanding the above requirements, no person shall allow or cause the generation of any noise of a type, volume, pitch, tone, repetition, or duration that would be found to be a nuisance by a reasonable person beyond the boundaries of the property where the noise is generated. 3-2

17 Table 3-3. Maximum Allowable Noise Level By Receiving Land Use Noise Sensitive Land Use Outdoor Activity Area (1) (2) Interior Spaces dba Ldn dba Ldn dba Leq Residential N/A Transient lodging N/A Hospitals, extended car N/A Theater, auditorium (3) Meeting facility, public or private Offices School, library, museum Playground, park 7 N/A N/A Notes: 1. Where the location of outdoor activity areas is unknown, the exterior noise level standard shall be applied to the property line of the receiving land use 2. Where it is not possible to reduce noise in outdoor activity areas to 65 db Ldn/CNEL or less using a practical application of the best available noise reduction measures, an exterior noise level of up to 7 db Ldn/CNEL may be allowed provided that available exterior noise level reduction measures have been implemented and interior noise levels are in compliance with this table. 3. Subject to an acoustical analysis in compliance with subsection C.2 Table 3-4. Noise Standards For Short-Duration Events Near Residential Areas Sound Level Maximum Allowable Sound Level (1) Day/Evening db (7AM to 1PM) Night db (1PM - 7AM) Hourly Leq db 5 45 Maximum Level, db 7 65 Maximum Level, db, for Impulsive Noise 65 6 Notes: 1. If the offensive noise contains a steady, audible tone (e.g., a screech or hum), is a repetitive noise (e.g., hammering), or contains speech or music, the maximum allowable sound level shall be reduced by five db. 2. Acoustical Analysis Required. Where the director determines that a proposed project may generate noise in excess of any limit established by Table 3-3, and/or where the use may generate noise in outdoor areas in excess of 6 dba, the land use permit application for the use shall include an acoustical analysis by a qualified professional approved by the director. 3-3

18 a. Contents. The Analysis shall determine the potential for stationary source noise impacts to neighboring land uses, include field measurements to determine more precise locations for existing and projected future noise levels (based on traffic projections in the circulation element of the general plan or as otherwise accepted by the city), and recommend appropriate mitigation measures. b. Preferred Mitigation Measures for Receptor Sites. When development is subject to high noise levels requiring mitigation, the following measures shall be considered and preference shall be given where feasible in the following order: Site layout, including setbacks, open space separation and shielding of noise sensitive uses with non-sensitive uses; Acoustical treatment of buildings; or Structural measures such as construction of earth berms and/or wood or concrete barriers; provided that no sound wall shall be located adjacent to a public street. 3. Limitation on Hours of Construction. In order to allow construction schedules to take advantage of the weather and normal daylight hours, and to ensure that nearby residents as well as nonresidential activities are not disturbed by the early morning or late night activities, the city has established the following limits on construction, in compliance with Table 3-5 or as required by conditions of approval. Table 3-5. Allowable Hours of Construction Day Allowable Hours 7AM to 6PM Monday through Saturday Sunday and National Holidays Extended construction hours may only be allowed by the review authority through conditions of approval between 6PM and 1PM. Construction activities may only be allowed by the review authority through conditions of approval between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. 3-4

19 4. Limitation on Truck Deliveries. Truck deliveries to a commercial or industrial parcel adjacent to a conforming residential use shall be limited to the hours between 7: a.m. and 7: p.m., unless the Director authorizes other delivery times based on the determination that there is either no feasible alternative, or there are overriding transportation and traffic management benefits to scheduling deliveries at night. 3-5

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21 4. Study Method and Procedure To determine the existing noise level environment, RK conducted two (2) short-term noise measurements at the project study area. The following describes the measurement procedures, measurements locations, results, noise modeling methods and assumptions to determine the existing and future noise level impact. 4.1 Measurement Procedure and Criteria Noise measurements are taken to determine the existing noise levels. A noise receiver or receptor is any location in the noise analysis in which noise might produce an impact. The following criteria are used to select measurement locations and receptors: Locations expected to receive the highest noise impacts, such as first row of houses Locations that are acoustically representative and equivalent of the area of concern Human land usage Sites clear of major obstruction and contamination RK conducted the sound level measurements in accordance to the City of Azusa and CalTrans technical noise specifications. All measurements equipment meets American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications for sound level meters (S identified in Chapter AA). The following gives a brief description of the Caltrans Technical Noise Supplement procedures for sound level measurements: Microphones for sound level meters were placed 5-feet above the ground for all measurements Sound level meters were calibrated (Larson Davis CAL 2) before and after each measurement Following the calibration of equipment, a wind screen was placed over the microphone Frequency weighting was set on A and slow response Results of the long-term noise measurements were recorded on field data sheets During any short-term noise measurements any noise contaminations such as barking dogs, local traffic, lawn mowers, or aircraft fly-overs were noted Temperature and sky conditions were observed and documented Noise Measurements Noise measurements were conducted February 19, 215 using a Larson Davis 7 type II sound level meter. The Leq, Lmin, Lmax, L2, L8, L25 and L5 were recorded over a 1- minute interval. The information was utilized to define the noise characteristics for the project. 4-1

22 4.1.2 Noise Measurement Locations The noise monitoring locations for the 31 AeroJet Avenue Business Park site were selected based on the access to the project site. Short-term noise monitoring locations (ST-1 and ST-2) were located along the project site s eastern and northern property line, respectively and represents ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the measurement location. Appendix B includes photos, field sheets and measured noise data Noise Measurement Timing and Climate The short-term noise measurements were recorded during daytime hours on February 19, 215. Noise measurements were conducted in 1-minute intervals during the indicated time schedule. The climate data was noted during the measurements and is indicated in the field sheets within Appendix B. Measurements were not taken during abnormal weather conditions such as high wind or rain. 4.2 Traffic Noise Modeling Traffic noise from vehicular traffic was projected using a version of the FHWA Traffic Noise Prediction Model (FHWA-RD-77-18). The FHWA model arrives at the predicted noise level through a series of adjustments to the key input parameters. Traffic data, traffic volumes, and percentages were obtained using the Traffic Impact Study (prepared by RK Engineering Group, Inc.) and vehicle mix data consistent with City of Azusa parameters. The referenced traffic data utilized for the study is indicated in Appendix C. The following outlines the key adjustments made to the computer model for the roadway inputs: Roadway classification (e.g. freeway, major arterial, arterial, secondary, collector, etc), Roadway Active Width (distance between the center of the outer most travel lanes on each side of the roadway) Average Daily Traffic (ADT) Volumes, Travel Speeds, Percentages of automobiles, medium trucks, and heavy trucks Roadway grade and angle of view Site Conditions (e.g. soft vs. hard) Percentage of total ADT which flows each hour throughout a 24-hour period Tables 1 and 2 show the roadway parameters, vehicle distribution, and scenarios utilized for this study. The following outlines key adjustments to the computer model for the project site parameter inputs: 4-2

23 Vertical and horizontal distances (Sensitive receptor distance from noise source) Noise barrier vertical and horizontal distances (Noise barrier distance from sound source and receptor). Traffic noise source spectra Topography RK estimated the traffic noise levels at 1 feet from the centerline of the analyzed roadway and the roadway noise contours. The noise model assumes a flat topography condition (which is a worst-case scenario). The project noise calculation worksheet outputs are provided in Appendix D. 4.3 Stationary Noise Modeling The stationary noise was projected using a computer program that replicates the FHWA Noise Prediction Model (FHWA-RD-77-18). The FHWA model arrives at the predicted noise level through a series of adjustments to the reference energy noise level. For each stationary source, the referenced noise level was applied to the model. The model outputs the projected noise level based on the following key parameters: Measured referenced noise level (e.g. how loud a source is at a specific distance) Vertical and horizontal distances (sensitive receptor distance from noise source) Noise barrier vertical and horizontal distances (noise barrier distance from sound source and receptor). Typical noise source spectra Topography The adjusted noise levels are based on the distance of the receptor location relative to the noise source, local topography and the project design features. Noise calculation worksheets are located in Appendix E. The noise levels assume that the stationary sources are operating continuously when in reality all noise sources will operate intermittently throughout the daily operation. 4-3

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25 5. Existing Noise Environment Ambient noise measurements were conducted at various locations at the project site. Two (2) short term ambient measurements were conducted at or near the site to evaluate the existing noise conditions. Exhibit C shows the measurement locations. Noise measurement data indicates that traffic noise propagating from local roadway network (e.g., Irwindale Avenue, SR-21 Freeway, etc) and the adjacent warehouse operations (north) are the primary sources of noise impacting the project site and surrounding land uses. 5.1 Short-Term Noise Measurement Results The results of the short-term noise data are presented in Table 3. The noise data indicates the daytime (7AM 1PM) ambient noise level. The noise measurement data indicates that the average noise level near the site area ranges from 58.2 to 59.6 dba Leq. The maximum measured noise level near the project site was 81.7 dba Lmax, as a result of adjacent warehouse operations. The City s noise code states that noise propagating from an adjacent land use must not exceed the City s daytime and/or nighttime standard. Therefore the project must not exceed beyond the established thresholds. It should be noted that closest residential units to the project site are located approximately 1,5 feet to the east. There are no airports within the project vicinity which might expose people working to excessive air traffic noise. 5.2 Modeled Existing Traffic Noise Levels The noise contours of the nearby existing roadways were calculated using the FHWA Traffic Noise Prediction Model (FHWA-RD-77-18) in order to provide a baseline of the existing traffic noise levels. The distances to the 55, 6, 65, 7 dba LDN noise contours were calculated. In addition, the noise level at 1 feet from the centerline was calculated and is representative of the approximate distance to land uses along the study area roadways. The existing traffic (without project) noise levels along the roadways are presented in Table 4 The calculated existing noise contours in Table 4 demonstrate that the noise level at 1 feet from the centerline for the analyzed roadways, range from 55.8 to 68.1 dba LDN. As previously mentioned the nearest residences to the project site are located 1,5 feet east of the project site. The existing traffic noise level conditions are conservative and do not take into account any topography and or existing walls along the roadway segments. The noise levels were generated for comparative purposes. 5-1

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27 6. Future Noise Environment Impacts and Mitigation 6.1 Future Exterior Noise Each future noise source related to the project was analyzed and compared to the City of Azusa standards. The sections below analyze the exterior noise levels and provide mitigation measures that would reduce noise levels. This assessment evaluates the potential noise impacts from the proposed Project to the surrounding land uses and compares the results to the City s Noise Standards Traffic Source Noise The potential off-site noise impacts caused by the increase in vehicular traffic from the operation of the proposed project on the nearby roadways were calculated for the following scenarios and conditions: Existing Year with Project Condition: This scenario refers to existing year traffic noise conditions with (plus) project generated traffic noise and is demonstrated in Table 5. Table 6 compares the existing without project to the existing with project condition and shows the change in noise level as a result of the proposed project. Buildout Year 216 without Project Condition: This scenario refers to the Buildout Year 216 traffic noise conditions consisting of future traffic generated by ambient growth and known development projects in the project study areas, without the proposed project generated traffic noise and is demonstrated in Table 7. Buildout Year 216 with Project Condition: This scenario refers to Buildout Year 216 traffic noise conditions with (plus) project generated traffic noise and is demonstrated in Table 8. Table 9 compares the Buildout Year 216 without project to the Buildout Year 216 with project condition and shows the change in noise level as a result of the proposed project. Proposed Project Off-Site Traffic Noise Impact Tables 6 and 9 show that the largest increase in noise levels is at Adelante Street, east of Irwindale Avenue, where there will be an increase of up to.8 dba LDN. According to the traffic study, all project traffic will be diverted towards Irwindale Avenue and towards the SR-21 Freeway. The levels that are shown are for comparative purposes only to show the difference in projected noise levels without and with the project. There are no residences located along Irwindale Avenue between Adelante Avenue and the SR-21 Freeway. The noise levels were calculated to show how the proposed project would affect the existing traffic noise levels along the subject roadways. 6-1

28 The projected noise levels at 1 are theoretical and do not take into consideration the effect of topography, noise barriers, structures or other factors which will reduce the actual noise level. Also, the analysis is conservative since hard site conditions were assumed. These factors can reduce the actual noise levels by 5-1+ dba from what is shown in the projected noise levels at 1. Therefore, the levels that are shown are for comparative purposes only to show the difference in projected noise levels without and with the project. According to CEQA, an impact is considered significant if there is a substantial increase above the ambient condition. The human ear can detect changes of 3 dba and changes of less than 3 dba, while audible under controlled circumstances, are not readily discernible in an outdoor environment. Thus, a change of 3 dba is considered as a barely audible change. As shown in Tables 6 and 9 the increase in noise level would result in a less than audible change and thus would be considered less than significant. Proposed Project On-Site Traffic Noise Impact Tables 5 and 8 show the Existing Plus Project and Buildout Year 216 traffic noise levels. Traffic noise levels would continue to be moderate along most roadway segments. As shown in Table 8, the 7, 65, 6, and 55 dba LDN impact zones extend up to 69, 217, 687, and 2,174 ft, respectively, from the centerline of Irwindale Avenue in the project vicinity. Portions of the project site are located within the 6-65 dba LDN contours of Irwindale Avenue which are within the City s acceptable industrial noise level range. Therefore traffic noise will have a less than significant impact to the proposed project Stationary Source Noise As previously mentioned the project site is located approximately 1,5 feet from the nearest residential units (located to the east). Truck Delivery Loading/Unloading Noise During loading and unloading activities, noise would be generated by the trucks diesel engines, exhaust systems, and brakes during low gear shifting braking activities; backing; dropping down the dock ramps; and maneuvering away from the loading area. There are nine bay doors on the southern most building (Building C) which face towards the residences. The residential units east of the project site are approximately 1,5 feet from the respective loading/unloading areas. An existing parking lot and other developments separate the project site from these residences. The loading/unloading noise level from the 6-2

29 project site will be 18.1 dba Leq with a maximum level of 36. dba. See Appendix E for calculations. The noise levels generated by truck operations would not exceed the City s daytime or nighttime noise standards (5 dba and 45 dba, respectively) for the residential land uses. The project would not have a significant impact to nearby residential land uses. 6.2 Summary of Mitigation Requirements The mitigation measures for the project are indicated in Exhibit D. In order to comply with the City of Azusa s Noise Element and Municipal Code the project must incorporate the following recommendations into the project design. Traffic Noise Reduction Measures No mitigation measures are required Stationary Noise Reduction Measures Project shall limit truck idling to 5 minutes or less. 6-3

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31 7. Construction Noise Impacts The degree of construction noise may vary for different areas of the project site and also vary depending on the construction activities. Noise levels associated with the construction will vary with the different phases of construction. 7.1 Construction Noise The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has compiled data regarding the noise generated characteristics of typical construction activities. The data is presented in Table 1. These noise levels would diminish rapidly with distance from the construction site at a rate of 6 dba per doubling of distance. For example, a noise level of 86 dba measured 5 feet from the noise source would reduce to 8 dba at 1 feet. At 2 feet from the noise source the noise level would reduce to 74 dba. At 4 feet the noise source would reduce by another 6 dba to 68 dba. Contractors are required to comply with the Noise Ordinance of the City of Azusa during construction described in Appendix A. The City has an exemption for noise created during construction. Also, construction is limited to certain hours during the day. The project will not have a significant impact to the adjacent land uses, based on the City s noise ordinance. 7.2 Construction Noise Reduction Measures Construction operations must follow the City s Noise Ordinance. 1. Construction must follow the allowable hours as set-forth in Table 3-5 of Section of the municipal code. 2. During construction, the contactor shall ensure all construction equipment is equipped with appropriate noise attenuating devices. 3. Idling equipment shall be turned off when not in use. 4. Equipment shall be maintained so that vehicles and their loads are secured from rattling and banging. 7-1

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33 8. References State of California General Plan Guidelines: Governor s Office of Planning and Research City of Azusa. General Plan Noise Element. April 24. City of Azusa. City of Azusa Municipal Code, Noise Ordinance Federal Highway Administration, Highway Traffic Noise Prediction Model, FHWA RD-77-18, 1978 RK Engineering Group, Traffic Impact Study, January

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35 Exhibits

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40 Tables

41 TABLE 1 Arterial Highway Hourly Traffic Flow Distribution 1 Irwindale Avenue (SR-21 to Foothill Boulevard) Motor-Vehicle Type Daytime % (7 AM - 7 PM) Evening % (7 PM - 1 PM) Night % (1 PM - 7 AM) Total % of Traffic Flow Automobiles Medium Trucks Heavy Trucks Irwindale Avenue (1st to SR-21) and Adelante Street Motor-Vehicle Type Daytime % (7 AM - 7 PM) Evening % (7 PM - 1 PM) Night % (1 PM - 7 AM) Total % of Traffic Flow Automobiles Medium Trucks Heavy Trucks Vehicle percentages utilized are referenced from Azusa Materials Recovery Facility & Transfer Station Noise Assessment, 21. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

42 TABLE 2 Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes and Traffic Speeds Average Daily Traffic 1 Existing Plus Buildout 216 Buildout 216 Travel Roadway Segment Project Existing Project without Project With Project Speeds Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue 936 4,264 5,2 4,4 5, Irwindale Avenue 1st Street to Adelante Avenue ,866 17,2 18,3 18, Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway ,761 36,5 37,6 38, SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd 8 25,12 25,2 26,3 26, ADTs were obtained from the traffic impact study prepared by RK Engineering Group (Appendix C). j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

43 TABLE 3 Noise Level Measurements 1,2 Site No. Time Started 3 Leq L max L min L 2 L 8 L 25 L 5 Comments 1 8:4 AM : AM Noise meter placed along western property line. Ambient noise = operations from existing site to the north. Noise meter placed along north property line. Ambient noise = operations from existing site to the north. 1 Noise measurements were taken for ten minutes. 2 Noise measurements were taken on Feb 19, 215. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

44 TABLE 4 Existing (Without Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN) 1 Roadway 2 Segment LDN at 1 Ft (dba) 7 dba LDN Distance to Contour (Ft) 3 65 dba LDN 6 dba LDN 55 dba LDN Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue st Street to Adelante Avenue Irwindale Avenue Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway ,28 SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd ,74 1 Exterior noise levels calculated at 5 feet above ground level. 2 Noise levels calculated from centerline of subject roadway. 3 Refer to Appendix D for projected noise level calculations. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

45 TABLE 5 Existing (With Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN) 1 Roadway 2 Segment LDN at 1 Ft (dba) 7 dba LDN Distance to Contour (Ft) 3 65 dba LDN 6 dba LDN 55 dba LDN Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue st Street to Adelante Avenue Irwindale Avenue Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway ,7 SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd ,746 1 Exterior noise levels calculated at 5 feet above ground level. 2 Noise levels calculated from centerline of subject roadway. 3 Refer to Appendix D for projected noise level calculations. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

46 TABLE 6 Change in Existing Noise Levels as a Result of Project (dba LDN) Existing Without Project LDN at 1 Feet dba Existing With Project Change in Noise Level Potential Significant Impact 1 Roadway Segment Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue NO Irwindale Avenue 1st Street to Adelante Avenue NO Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway NO SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd NO 1 It takes a change of 3 dba or more to hear a noticeable change in noise level. The projected noise levels at 1 are theoretical and do not take into consideration the effect of topography, noise barriers, structures or other factors which will reduce the actual noise level in the outdoor living areas. These factors can reduce the actual noise levels by 5-1+ dba from what is shown in the projected noise levels at 1. Therefore, the levels that are shown are for comparative purposes only to show the difference in projected noise levels without and with the project. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

47 TABLE 7 Buildout 216 (Without Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN) 1 Roadway 2 Segment LDN at 1 Ft (dba) 7 dba LDN Distance to Contour (Ft) 3 65 dba LDN 6 dba LDN 55 dba LDN Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue st Street to Adelante Avenue ,38 Irwindale Avenue Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway ,132 SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd ,822 1 Exterior noise levels calculated at 5 feet above ground level. 2 Noise levels calculated from centerline of subject roadway. 3 Refer to Appendix D for projected noise level calculations. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

48 TABLE 8 Buildout 216 (With Project) Exterior Noise Levels Along Roadways (dba LDN) 1 Roadway 2 Segment LDN at 1 Ft (dba) 7 dba LDN Distance to Contour (Ft) 3 65 dba LDN 6 dba LDN 55 dba LDN Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue st Street to Adelante Avenue ,57 Irwindale Avenue Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway ,174 SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd ,828 1 Exterior noise levels calculated at 5 feet above ground level. 2 Noise levels calculated from centerline of subject roadway. 3 Refer to Appendix D for projected noise level calculations. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

49 TABLE 9 Change in Buildout 216 Noise Levels as a Result of Project (dba LDN) Year 216 Without Project LDN at 1 Feet dba Year 216 With Project Change in Noise Level Potential Significant Impact 1 Roadway Segment Adelante Street East of Irwindale Avenue NO Irwindale Avenue 1st Street to Adelante Avenue NO Adelante Avenue to SR-21 Freeway NO SR-21 Freeway to Foothill Blvd NO 1 It takes a change of 3 dba or more to hear a noticeable change in noise level. The projected noise levels at 1 are theoretical and do not take into consideration the effect of topography, noise barriers, structures or other factors which will reduce the actual noise level in the outdoor living areas. These factors can reduce the actual noise levels by 5-1+ dba from what is shown in the projected noise levels at 1. Therefore, the levels that are shown are for comparative purposes only to show the difference in projected noise levels without and with the project. j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

50 TABLE 1 Typical Construction Noise Levels 1 EQUIPMENT POWERED BY INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES Type Noise Levels (dba) at 5 Feet Earth Moving Compactors (Rollers) Front Loaders Backhoes Tractors Scrapers, Graders Pavers Trucks Materials Handling Concrete Mixers Concrete Pumps Cranes (Movable) Cranes (Derrick) Stationary Pumps Generators Compressors IMPACT EQUIPMENT Type Noise Levels (dba) at 5 Feet Pneumatic Wrenches Jack Hammers, Rock Drills 8-99 Pile Drivers (Peak) OTHER Type Noise Levels (dba) at 5 Feet Vibrators Saws Referenced Noise Levels from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) j:/rktables/rk194tb.xls JN:

51 Appendices

52 Appendix A City of Azusa Noise Element & Noise Ordinance

53 Azusa, CA Code of Ordinances about:blank Noise Standards. A. Purpose. This section implements the policies of the noise element of the general plan, and provides standards for noise mitigation that are intended to protect the community health, safety, and general welfare by limiting exposure to the unhealthful effects of noise. B. Applicability. No use, activity, or process shall exceed the maximum allowable noise levels established by this section, except for the following noise sources: 1. Emergencies. Public safety warning devices (e.g., ambulance, fire, and police sirens), sound for alerting persons to the existence of an emergency, or the performance of authorized emergency work; 2. State or Federal Preempted Activities. Any activity regulated by state or federal law; 3. Public Health and Safety Activities. Construction, maintenance, and/or repair operations by public agencies and/or utility companies or their contractors that are serving public interests, and/or protecting the public health, safety, and general welfare; Parks. Public agency sanctioned recreational activities and programs conducted in public parks; and Solid Waste Collection. The authorized collection of solid waste. C. Noise Source Standards. 1. Noise Level Limitations. No use, activity, or process within the city shall generate noise in excess of the levels identified by Tables 3-3 and 3-4, as the noise is measured at the property line of a noise sensitive land use identified in Tables 3-3 and 3-4. a. If the measured ambient noise level exceeds the applicable noise level standard in any category shown in Table 3-3, the applicable standards shall be adjusted to equal the ambient noise level. b. If the intruding noise source is continuous and cannot reasonably be discontinued or stopped to allow measurement of the ambient noise level, the noise level measured while the source is in operation shall be compared directly to the applicable noise level standards identified in Table 3-3. Notwithstanding the above requirements, no person shall allow or cause the generation of any noise of a type, volume, pitch, tone, repetition, or duration that would be found to be a nuisance by a reasonable person beyond the boundaries of the property where the noise is generated. TABLE 3-3. MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE NOISE LEVEL BY RECEIVING LAND USE 1 of 5 2/19/15, 1:2 AM

54 Azusa, CA Code of Ordinances about:blank Noise Sensitive Land Use Outdoor Activity Areas (1) (2) Interior Spaces dba L dba L dba L dn dn eq Residential N.A. Transient lodging N.A. Hospitals, extended care N.A. Theater, auditorium (3) Meeting facility, public or private Offices School, library, museum Playground, park 7 N.A. N.A. Notes: (1) (2) (3) Where the location of outdoor activity areas is unknown, the exterior noise level standard shall be applied to the property line of the receiving land use. Where it is not possible to reduce noise in outdoor activity areas to 65 db Ldn/CNEL or less using a practical application of the best-available noise reduction measures, an exterior noise level of up to 7 db Ldn/CNEL may be allowed provided that available exterior noise level reduction measures have been implemented and interior noise levels are in compliance with this table. Subject to an acoustical analysis in compliance with subsection C.2 TABLE NOISE STANDARDS FOR SHORT-DURATION EVENTS NEAR RESIDENTIAL AREAS Sound Level Maximum Allowable Sound Level (1) Day/Evening db J(7 am to 1 pm) Night db (1 pm to 7 am) 2 of 5 2/19/15, 1:2 AM

55 Azusa, CA Code of Ordinances about:blank Hourly L db 5 45 eq Maximum Level, db 7 65 Maximum Level, db, for Impulsive Noise 65 6 Notes: (1) If the offensive noise contains a steady, audible tone (e.g., a screech or hum), is a repetitive noise (e.g., hammering), or contains speech or music, the maximum allowable sound level shall be reduced by five db. Acoustical Analysis Required. Where the director determines that a proposed project may generate noise in excess of any limit established by Table 3-3, and/or where the use may generate noise in outdoor areas in excess of 6 dba, the land use permit application for the use shall include an acoustical analysis by a qualified professional approved by the director. a. b. Contents. The analysis shall determine the potential for stationary source noise impacts to neighboring land uses, include field measurements to determine more precise locations for existing and projected future noise levels (based on traffic projections in the circulation element of the general plan or as otherwise accepted by the city), and recommend appropriate mitigation measures. Preferred Mitigation Measures for Receptor Sites. When development is subject to high noise levels requiring mitigation, the following measures shall be considered and preference shall be given where feasible in the following order: (1) (2) (3) Site layout, including setbacks, open space separation and shielding of noise sensitive uses with non-noise-sensitive uses; Acoustical treatment of buildings; or Structural measures such as constructed of earth berms and/or wood or concrete barriers; provided that no sound wall shall be located adjacent to a public street. Limitation on Hours of Construction. In order to allow construction schedules to take advantage of the weather and normal daylight hours, and to ensure that nearby residents as well as nonresidential activities are not disturbed by the early morning or late night activities, the city has established the following limits on construction, in compliance with Table 3-5 or as required by conditions of approval. TABLE 3-5. ALLOWABLE HOURS OF CONSTRUCTION Day Allowable Hours 3 of 5 2/19/15, 1:2 AM

56 Azusa, CA Code of Ordinances about:blank Monday through Saturday Sunday and National Holidays 7: a.m. to 6: p.m. Extended construction hours may only be allowed by the review authority through conditions of approval between 6 p.m. and 1 p.m Construction activities may only be allowed by the review authority through conditions of approval between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. 4. Limitation on Truck Deliveries. Truck deliveries to a commercial or industrial parcel adjacent to a conforming residential use shall be limited to the hours between 7: a.m. and 7: p.m., unless the Director authorizes other delivery times based on the determination that there is either no feasible alternative, or there are overriding transportation and traffic management benefits to scheduling deliveries at night. D. Noise Receptor Standards. Where noise-sensitive land uses are proposed in areas exposed to existing or projected noise levels in excess of the standards in Tables 3-3 and 3-4, the city shall require an acoustical analysis as part of the environmental review process so that noise mitigation may be included in the project design, so that proposed structures are designed to limit intruding noise in interior rooms to 45 dba Ldn. At the discretion of the director, the requirement for an acoustical analysis may be waived if all of the following conditions are satisfied: 1. The development is for less than five single-family dwellings or less than 1, square feet of total gross floor area for office buildings meeting facilities; 2. The noise source in question consists of a single roadway or railroad for which up-to-date noise exposure information is available. An acoustical analysis will be required if the noise source is a stationary noise source, or if there are multiple noise sources that could affect the project; The projected future noise exposure at the exterior of proposed buildings or outdoor activity areas does not exceed 65 dba Ldn; The topography of the area is essentially flat; and 5. Effective noise mitigation, as determined by the director, is incorporated into the project design. The measures can include, but are not limited to, the use of building setbacks, building orientation, or noise barriers. If closed windows are required for compliance with interior noise level standards, air conditioning or a mechanical ventilation system will be required. E. Noise Measurement. In order to determine compliance with the standards in Tables 3-3 and 3-4, exterior noise levels shall be measured at the property line of the noise sensitive land use receiving the noise. Noise 4 of 5 2/19/15, 1:2 AM

57 Azusa, CA Code of Ordinances about:blank measurement shall be made with a sound level meter using the "A" weighted scale at slow meter response. Fast meter response shall be used only for an impulsive noise. (Ord. No. 6-O6, 1B, 8-7-6) 5 of 5 2/19/15, 1:2 AM

58 Appendix B Photographs and Field Measurements

59 Field Sheet Project: Aerojet Avenue Business Park Noise Engineer: Mario Gutierrez Date: 2/19/215 Impact Study JN: Measurement Address: City: Azusa Site No.: 31 Aerojet Avenue 1-2 Sound Level Meter: Calibration Record: Notes: LD-712 Input, db/ Reading, db/ Offset, db/ Time Serial # A52 Before 114./ 114./ 26.9/ 8:35 AM Temp: 7 After 114./ 114./ 26.3/ 9:1 AM Windspeed: - - Calibrator: Direction: - - LD Before / / / Skies: Clear Serial # 1322 After / / / Camera: Photo Nos. Meter Settings: A-WTD LINEAR SLOW 1/1 OCT INTERVALS 1 - MINUTE C-WTD IMPULSE FAST 1/3 OCT L N PERCENTILE VALUES Notes: Measurement Type: Long-term Short-term X Start Time Stop Time Leq Lmin Lmax L2 L8 L25 L5 8:4 AM 8:5 AM Comments: Noise meter was place along the western property line. Ambient noise was captured from operations occurring along the northern property line in the adjacent property. 9: AM 9:1 AM Comments: Noise meter was place along the northern property line. Locations 3 Comments: 4 Comments: 5 Comments: SEE EXHIBIT C

60 Field Sheet - ST1 Location Photos Project: Aerojet Avenue Business Park Noise Engineer: Mario Gutierrez Date: 2/19/215 Impact Study JN: Measurement Address: City: Azusa Site No.: Noise meter was place along the western property line

61 Field Sheet - ST2 Location Photos Project: Aerojet Avenue Business Park Noise Engineer: Mario Gutierrez Date: 2/19/215 Impact Study JN: Measurement Address: City: Azusa Site No.: Noise meter was place along the northern property line