Project Number:

2631

Gilboa Dam Reconstruction Project

SERVICE:

Air Quality and Noise Impact Analyses

DESCRIPTION:

The Gilboa Dam in upstate New York required extensive repairs. The dam is located on the Schoharie Reservoir in the Town of Gilboa. Tech was asked to perform the air quality and noise impact analyses for the temporary impacts caused by the reconstruction of the dam.

The air quality work included a microscale air quality analysis of major intersections located near the dam with the EPA CAL3QHCR model and an analysis of the activities preparing for and during the reconstruction of the dam with the EPA AERMOD model. The project was under the jurisdiction of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP). The air quality work included a modeling protocol that was approved by the NYC DEP. Modeling was performed for carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), coarse and fine particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5). Sources of PM2.5 included paved and unpaved roadway fugitive dust, the exhaust emissions from construction equipment, the emissions from demolition of the existing dam, emissions from waste and aggregates, and emissions from the temporary cement batch plant.

The noise impact analysis included an extensive noise monitoring program that covered all surrounding residences and municipal structures (e.g. schools and museums). The noise impact analysis included a variety of noise sources that were modeled with the CadnaA model and the Federal Highway Administration Transportation Noise Model (TNM); Tech had to devise a method to estimate the usage factors for various construction activities.

Tech continues to work with NYCDEP to ensure that this project will operate within all relevant standards.

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Key Points

  • A reconstruction project for the Gilboa Dam, a critical part of New York City's water supply, required extensive air and noise analyses.
  • Tech has worked closely with the NYCDEP to ensure that dam reconstruction efforts comply with stringent city air and noise statutes.