Walker Athletic Complex, Mebane, North Carolina
Location: Mebane, North Carolina
Owner/Operator: City of Mebane
Outdoor Recreation Courts Noise Complaint Investigation
When concerns were raised regarding noise from Mebane’s Walker Athletic Complex, a popular outdoor recreation area, the City retained HGC Noise Vibration Acoustics to assess the situation and provide expert recommendations.
Municipal Noise Ordinance Challenge: Qualitative vs. Quantitative
The City faced a common municipal challenge: addressing public noise complaints related to outdoor recreation without clear numerical limits in the local noise ordinance. Chapter 14, Article IV of the City of Mebane’s ordinance defines “unreasonably loud” noise in qualitative terms (e.g., disturbing or unnecessary) rather than specifying measurable sound-level thresholds — making enforcement and mitigation decisions more complex.
On-Site Acoustic Measurements
HGC deployed long-term sound monitoring equipment and conducted on-site acoustic measurements over a two-week period. Detailed data was reviewed and correlated with security video footage to identify the source of noise during periods of elevated sound levels.
Key Noise Study Findings and Recommendations
- Energy-equivalent average daytime sound levels near the recreation area during use were found to meet limits set in noise ordinances and guides from other areas.
- Existing acoustic barriers deployed at the site were found to have a positive effect, but improvements could be made.
HGC found that the City could consider:
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- Closing gaps in the existing noise barrier and extend its extent.
- Consider modest height increases.
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Acoustical Consulting Services Provided:
- Review of relevant local and regional noise ordinances
- Environmental noise study
- Noise mitigation measures and recommendations
