A large number of variables in addition to noise correlate with community reaction, yet to date virtually the only method used to reduce reaction is to reduce noise exposure. It is suggested that thisobvious and effective countermeasure may be supplemented with additional measures. Modifying variables may be manipulated to reduce reaction if they meet three criteria: the variable must have a sufficiently strong relationship with reaction to be of practical value; thevariable must be a causal factor in reaction (or turn out to be part of reaction); and the variable must be potentially manipulable. Available data suggest that a number of modifying variables may meet these criteria (attitude, reduction in rates, direct sight of the noise source, and fear of crashes). It is suggested that research is needed to establish with greater confidence the direction of causalityand the impact of modifying variables on reaction. In particular, the manipulation of modifying variables in order to reduce reaction (either alone or in combination with noise reduction) deserves directtesting. This paper appears in transportation research record no. 1312, Energy and environmental issues 1991.
Abstract