HMMH Founders’ Award 2014

11.11.2014 |

“In recognition of outstanding performance that was uniquely challenging, technically innovative, and resulted in proven client satisfaction.”

HMMH is pleased to present its annual award for excellence to NCHRP Report 791 – Supplemental Guidance on the Application of FHWA’s Traffic Noise Model (TNM).

This highly successful project was managed by HMMH Senior Vice President Christopher Menge and supported by a team of consultants; the announcement of the availability of the final report was issued by the Transportation Research Board (TRB) in October 2014.

Under NCHRP Project 25-34, HMMH was asked to investigate 16 different research topic areas to identify best practices and provide significant guidance on applying TNM to accurately, consistently, and efficiently model traffic-generated noise in a variety of settings that has not been previously addressed by TNM. The objective of NCHRP 25-34 was to supplement existing guidance on applying the TNM by identifying best practices to model structure reflected noise; bridge expansion joints; signalized interchanges; intersections; area sources (e.g., weigh stations, park and ride lots, toll facilities, and service plazas); median barriers; roundabouts; and tunnel openings. The research determines the sensitivity and accuracy of methods to model multi-lane highways, rows of buildings, topography, ground zones, and tree zones, and identifies best practices for input parameters. The research also synthesizes the state of practice for analyzing the effects of wind and temperature gradients on sound propagation.

According to Lori Sundstrom, the manager at TRB, “Chris stepped in as the new project manager magnificently and the change did not affect the project progress at all. He kept five (5) contractors on track and on schedule. Chris was always really timely with responses to comments and suggestions.  The progress reporting was excellent.”  Overall, Lori gave the project an “A+ with a terrific outcome.”

Adam Alexander, the FHWA panel participant said the project was “probably the most impressive research project he has seen.”  Not only was it “excellent research, but the results were turned into practical application” which he expects to recommend, and has already recommended, that state highway departments use the methods as though they were FHWA guidance.