Noise Abatement

The Colorado Motor Carriers Association has done considerable work to reduce truck noise resulting from use of Engine Brakes.  The problem is not so simple since engine compression brakes are as important safety device on high mountain passes where heavy vehicles must maintain control  while coming off steep grades that can render conventional brakes ineffective.

 

Truck Noise Reduction in the Vail Valley

Objectives -- CMCA and The Town of Vail (TOV) have collaborated to reduce highway noise through the Vail Valley. Concerns regarding noise generated from un muffled engine brakes prompted the Town of Vail to propose a ban on engine brakes. Through many discussions and meetings, the CMCA and the Town of Vail came to an agreement to work together toward a solution, rather than penalizing the trucking industry. A summary of this project follows.

1. EDUCATION
Mountain Driving Education Program

CMCA and the TOVl cooperatively work on an information program with trucking companies utilizing the I-70 corridor to ensure safe driving. The program emphasizes the importance of speed compliance, use of chains and the appropriate use of engine brakes. Additional involvement by the Colorado State Patrol and Colorado Department of Transportation is encouraged and efforts to add a “your speed is” radar display component to the variable message signs at mile marker 177 and 173 will be pursued by both parties. CMCA works with the TOV to expand its trucker education program to include brochures, CDs and other materials are used to better inform drivers on how to safely operate through the mountains. The CMCA assists in this educational effort component and is working with state and federal agencies to procure additional funding for this effort, as needed.

2. ENFORCEMENT
Increased Speed Enforcement

CMCA and the TOV work together and advocate greater enforcement of existing speed limits by the State Patrol and the Vail Police Department for all vehicles on I-70 through the area. Both parties have made a formal request to the State Patrol for greater enforcement activities. Increased Enforcement of Current State Law Requiring Mufflers on Vehicles with Engine Brakes. CMCA and the TOV have pushed for greater enforcement of the existing state law which requires that trucks with engine brakes (jake brakes) have mufflers. This law provides a $500 fine for any truck with an engine brake and not having a muffler.

Both agencies have asked the Ports of Entry staff at the Dumont and Loma (near Grand Junction on I-70) Ports of Entry to strictly enforce this law.  As part of this effort, Vail town officials are enforcing the state law on local roadways and job sites within the TOV. Further, CMCA and TOV have asked for roadside safety Engine Brake Muffler Legislation in Other States.

The Colorado Legislature with the assistance of CMCA was the first state in the country to pass a tough measure citing trucks without a muffler and possessing an engine brake. CMCA has worked with its affiliates in other states for passage of a similar measure which will further reduce the numbers of loud trucks passing through our state. Already, Montana and Nevada have passed the same law and several other states are considering it. As part of this agreement, CMCA agrees to work with its affiliates in other states for the passage of this measure requiring mufflers on trucks with engine brakes. Investigate Legislation Regarding Failure to Maintain or Alter a Muffler Current state law provides a nominal ($15) fine for vehicles which may not possess a muffler or have a faulty muffler, both contributing to significantly high noise levels. Under this MOU, CMCA in conjunction with the TOV have explored development of state legislation which could provide for increased penalties for failure to maintain or alter a muffler. This legislation would apply to all vehicles (automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, etc.).

3. ENGINEERING
Noise Monitoring

CMCA has obtained a noise meter for the TOV to measure noise levels on I-70 as well as within the community. TOV, with the consent of CMCA, has asked for third party technical assistance to establish baseline measurements for noise levels associated with various types of vehicles with the intent to develop an enforceable maximum decibel standard. The third party will also work with the TOV to ensure that staff is trained in the proper use of such meters. In addition, the third party shall conduct scheduled noise tests to evaluate the ongoing effectiveness of all mitigation efforts. CMCA and the TOV agree to work on this effort and will meet with the third party to agree on the scope of work and the duration of measurements.