City Council in Gmünd is fighting for reduced noise measurements!

City Council in Gmünd is fighting for reduced noise measurements!

Schwäbisch Gmünd, Deutschland - in Schwäbisch Gmünd is the quality of life at stake, especially for residents on heavily used main roads. The city council recently launched a noise action plan that aims to reduce the loads from traffic noise. Innovative measures are required, because as the city councilor Andreas Benk from the Söl faction shows, there are concerns about the reliability of the city's noise measurements. In this context, the Gmünder Daily post that according to the traffic noise study, over 15,000 people are faced with noise levels of over 65 dB (A).

The pressure on the city administration grows to take the right steps. The noise action plan, which is specified by the state, demands precise measurement methods. The new guidelines, known as RLS19, offer a modern basis that has been in force since 2019. These guidelines mean that the latest measurement methods serve to better record the noise emissions and thus enable targeted measures to minimize noise. The B29 is particularly targeted, as well as the highest noise values, as well as road sections such as Königsturmstraße and Eutighofer Straße.

concerns about the current methodology

Not everything runs smoothly: Benk expresses concerns that the city may present lower values ​​when it does its own calculations. This could cause the need for measures to be reduced to combat noise. In addition, the focus is on two school buildings in Gmünd, which are exposed to over 75 dB (A) - a value that is considered a health -critical one. This could mean that a quick discussion about the so-called noise hotspots in Gmünd is essential, which is to be found in July.

An element of the noise protection represent the so -called noise protection windows, which can dampen the noise by up to 20 dB (a). However, the fact that there is no longer any state grants for their installation, which presents families and homeowners with a financial challenge, is problematic.

health burdens from traffic noise

traffic noise not only affects the quality of life, but also on the health of the residents. According to the Environmental Federal Agency are disturbed by around 75% of Germans by road traffic noise. Although considerable progress could be made through technical measures to reduce noise, the situation in many cities, especially in Gmünd, is still tense. Studies show that not only during the day, but also at night many people are exposed to high noise levels that can result in health impairments.

The new RLS19 guideline is considered a step in the right direction, since it has taken into account current developments in the emission model and introduced specific correction sizes. Ultimately, however, these measures must be made in a parliamentary procedure in order to actually develop effectiveness, such as the Ingenieur.de summarize.