Being a Good Neighbor During Construction

Mitigation to minimize construction impacts

Mitigation to minimize impacts during construction is an important part of all Wastewater Treatment Division construction projects. King County policies and ordinances, as well as agencies and jurisdictions that grant permits, require mitigation to protect the environment and interests of the community.

Noise control

Construction sites are typically noisy, but many steps can be taken to minimize noise: installing sound barriers, shutting off idling equipment not in use, equipping motors with mufflers and using vehicles with ambient alarms or strobes instead of loud beeps. Occasionally, periods of high level noise are unavoidable. In those situations, King County staff will work with neighbors to minimize disruption.

Erosion, emissions, and dust control

To preserve air quality and control mud, dust and run-off, contractors can use measures such as silt fences, straw bales and truck wheel washing. Measures can also be taken to protect slopes and soil stockpiles, and contractors are required to use vehicles that comply with air quality laws.

Traffic and parking

Traffic management plans worked out with the jurisdictions as a condition of permitting generally designate construction haul routes and regulate construction activities to minimize their effects on traffic flow. These plans also incorporate safety measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists.

Safety

Sites are secured with fencing and lighting, and off-duty police officers and flaggers can be brought in to direct traffic in busier areas. For each project, King County develops a comprehensive safety plan in compliance with state and federal laws. Emergency response plans are developed and shared with police and fire departments.

See also:

• Cut-and-cover or trenching
• Trenchless methods—tunneling and drilling
• Building or upgrading facilities

Updated: Dec. 6, 2005