The FHWA Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM) was originally released in 1998 and has undergone several upgrades. On May 2, 2005 the FHWA TNM, Version 2.5 became the required traffic noise prediction model to be used on Federal-aid highway projects. FHWA TNM Version 3.0 Software Development: FHWA is currently funding the development of the FHWA TNM Version 3.0. The main objective of Version 3.0 is to contemporize the software, making sure that the FHWA TNM does not become obsolete as computers/operating systems advance. Contemporizing FHWA TNM will allow for more efficient upgrades and future maintenance. The FHWA is also funding a limited number of enhancements which will be included in Version 3.0. FHWA TNM Web-based Training: Since 1998, State DOTs have identified the need for TNM-related training. The number of requests for TNM training increases as the model is further developed and new versions are released. With the regulatory requirement to use the FHWA TNM on all Federal-aid highway projects, it is appropriate to develop a training course that is reasonably priced and easily accessible to State DOTs.

FHWA TNM Version 3.0 Software Development: 1) Enhance the graphical user interface (GUI). 2) Correct known software bugs. 3) Enhance functionality. FHWA TNM Web-based Training: Development of a National Highway Institute (NHI), instructor-led, web-based training course for the FHWA TNM. The development of the course will coincide with development of Version 3.0. Since Version 3.0 will take longer to develop, the training course will be updated once Version 3.0 is completed.

FHWA TNM Version 3.0 Software Development: The FHWA has conducted surveys and has held small discussion groups where many GUI improvements, software bugs, and functionality enhancements have been identified. Some of the commonly suggested improvements include: 1) Make the ¿Tables¿ function more like MS Excel (copy/paste cells, wrap text in cells, etc.); 2) Graphically show roadway widths; and 3) Redesign the Ldn and Lden input dialog boxes to allow greater detail and more flexibility. These commonly suggested improvements as well as the other suggested improvements can be found in the attached file in the Documents section. Through this pooled-fund study, a Design Review Group (DRG) made up of representatives from the participating State DOTs will work with the FHWA to identify and help prioritize additional software enhancements (GUI upgrades, bug fixes and functionality). Since it is essential to include input from the TNM user community, the Highway Noise Subcommittee of the TRB ADC40 committee, Transportation Related Noise and Vibration, will also be solicited for input on model enhancements. Some enhancements may be contingent upon additional work outside the scope of this pooled-fund study. For example, implementing pavement noise effects into the FHWA TNM is dependent on related investigations currently being funded by FHWA. Pavement noise effects may be added at a future date, possibly as part of a pooled fund project, depending on the outcome of ongoing research. Included in the proposed cost of this pooled-fund study are funds to allow for comprehensive status reports by the developer at the TRB Annual Meeting and the ADC40 Summer Meeting. During these meetings, there will be a status presentation, as well as a separate DRG meeting. Travel cost for the DRG members are included in the ¿minimum contribution¿ cost (see comment section). The improvements that will be included in Version 3.0 will be dependent on their complexity and cost. If a participating State DOT wants to fund a particular improvement that does not make the final list due to cost, they may do so by pledging additional funds. FHWA TNM Web-based Training: The DRG will be solicited to determine the basic structure, duration and key points to be included in an NHI, instructor-led, web-based training course on the FHWA TNM. The DRG will be provided updates on the development of the course and be asked to submit comments on its content.

FHWA TNM Version 3.0 Software Development: The minimum amount of funds needed is $200,000. This would not allow for the completion of Version 3.0, but would allow for activities to begin. The minimum contribution per State DOT is $30,000 for this activity. This would allow for travel costs for one individual to participate in the two DRG meetings a year, of this 3 year activity. FHWA TNM Web-based Training: The minimum amount of funds needed for this activity to be completed is: $100,000. There is no minimum contribution per State DOT for this activity.