A resolution requesting the Tennessee Department of Transportation to construct noise abatement walls when highway construction abuts residential areas.

WHEREAS, pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated §54-1-126, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is responsible for the maintenance of roads, streets, and highways designated as being on the state system of highways or the state system of interstate highways; and

WHEREAS, highway construction through residential areas creates a noise problem for the residents, often disturbing the use and enjoyment of their homes and decreasing the value of their property; and

WHEREAS, noise abatement walls have been proven to decrease highway noise levels in residential areas; and

WHEREAS, several state departments of transportation, including Ohio, Virginia and Minnesota have developed a noise abatement policy providing for the construction of noise abatement walls when new highways are constructed; and

WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the residents within Nashville and Davidson County that the Tennessee Department of Transportation construct noise abatement walls when highway construction abuts residential areas.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Tennessee Department of Transportation to take the action necessary to cause a traffic impact study to construct noise abatement walls when highway construction abuts residential areas.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a certified copy of this Resolution to Gerald Nicely, the Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.