Noise reduction a concern for CRC construction

By: Sue Vorenberg//January 17, 2011//

Noise reduction a concern for CRC construction

Sue Vorenberg//January 17, 2011//

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A study by the group behind the project will examine an underwater noise reduction technique called “bubble curtains” as a way to reduce the acoustic impacts to homes and wildlife during construction of the bridge.

The group awarded of Tacoma the $811,204 contract for the study, which is expected to be finished by Feb. 28.

The bubble curtain technique releases bubbles of air beneath the water, usually at a low spot near a river bottom. The bubbles act as a curtain that limits the spread of shock or sound waves – such as those caused by pile driving for the bridge.

The company will install six temporary test piles to study the technique over a three-week span. It will monitor sounds from the experiments underwater, in downtown Vancouver, Wash., and on Hayden Island.