CTE Environmental Impact & Sustainability 2

Question 1

The FHWA highway traffic noise model used for noise impact assessments is called:

Accepted Answer

TNM (Traffic Noise Model)

Answer

The FHWA Traffic Noise Model (TNM) is the agency's approved computer model for predicting highway traffic noise levels and evaluating the feasibility and reasonableness of noise barriers.

Question 2

At what noise level (Leq) does FHWA consider a highway noise impact to occur for Category C land use (residential)?

Accepted Answer

67 dB(A)

Answer

FHWA's noise abatement criteria establish 67 dB(A) Leq as the impact threshold for Category C land uses, which include residences and similar noise-sensitive outdoor areas.

Question 3

What is the purpose of an 'alternatives analysis' in a highway EIS under NEPA?

Accepted Answer

To evaluate a range of reasonable alternatives including the no-build alternative

Answer

NEPA requires an EIS to rigorously evaluate a reasonable range of alternatives, including the no-build alternative, to inform decision-makers and the public about tradeoffs.

Question 4

Which greenhouse gas is the primary concern from mobile source emissions in the transportation sector?

Accepted Answer

Carbon dioxide (CO2)

Answer

Carbon dioxide (CO2) from combustion of gasoline and diesel fuels is the dominant greenhouse gas from the transportation sector, accounting for the largest share of US transport GHG emissions.

Question 5

What does 'environmental justice' require in federally funded transportation planning?

Accepted Answer

Identifying and addressing disproportionately high adverse effects on minority and low-income populations

Answer

Executive Order 12898 requires federal agencies to identify and address disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority and low-income populations.

CTE - Certified Transportation Engineer Practice Test

CTE - Certified Transportation Engineer Practice Test

CTE Environmental Impact & Sustainability 2