Tag Archive: urban

Sound Wall on Major Road – Salt Lake City, Utah

January 25, 2025 0 Comments

Sound Wall on Major Road - Salt Lake City, Utah

A sound wall located along a major road and housing development in the Salt Lake Valley in northern Utah, part of the urban corridor known as the Wasatch Front.

Walls along highways, commonly referred to as noise barriers or sound walls, are constructed to mitigate the impact of traffic noise on nearby residential, commercial, and recreational areas. As vehicles generate significant noise from engines, tires, and horns, these barriers serve to absorb, deflect, or block the sound waves, creating quieter environments for communities adjacent to busy roadways. By reducing noise pollution, these walls not only improve the quality of life for residents but also help protect public health, as prolonged exposure to high noise levels has been linked to stress, sleep disturbances, and other health issues. Their primary goal is to ensure that noise levels comply with established standards set by environmental and transportation authorities.

In addition to their functional purpose, modern highway sound walls are often designed with aesthetic and environmental considerations in mind. Many are built with materials that blend with the surrounding landscape or incorporate art, murals, or greenery to enhance the visual appeal of the area. Some sound walls also utilize innovative designs, such as vegetated barriers or eco-friendly materials, to promote sustainability and improve air quality. By balancing practical noise reduction with thoughtful design, these barriers not only protect communities from traffic noise but also contribute to safer and more attractive urban and suburban environments.

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A Bioswale and Rain Garden with Storm Drain in West Jordan, Utah

January 20, 2025 0 Comments

A Bioswale and Rain Garden with Storm Drain in West Jordan, Utah

A bioswale and rain garden system located along a housing development in West Jordan, a suburb of Salt Lake City in northern Utah, part of the urban corridor known as the Wasatch Front.

A storm drain integrated within a bioswale and rain garden is a hybrid stormwater management system designed to handle excess runoff while enhancing filtration and environmental benefits. In such a setup, the bioswale and rain garden are the primary features for capturing, slowing, and filtering stormwater from nearby impervious surfaces. They are designed with vegetation, permeable soil, and sometimes rock channels to allow water to percolate naturally into the ground.

The storm drain serves as a secondary or overflow mechanism within this system. When heavy rains or extreme runoff exceed the capacity of the bioswale and rain garden, the excess water is directed into the storm drain to prevent flooding. The storm drain is strategically placed, often at the lowest point of the bioswale or rain garden, to capture overflow only when necessary. This combined approach not only reduces the burden on traditional stormwater infrastructure but also improves water quality and reduces localized flooding by using natural filtration as the first line of defense.

Such systems are commonly found in urban or suburban settings where sustainable green infrastructure is prioritized, blending engineered solutions with natural processes for maximum efficiency and ecological benefit.

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Sandy City Hall – Wasatch Front – Salt Lake Valley

January 18, 2025 0 Comments

Sandy City Hall - Wasatch Front - Salt Lake Valley

Sandy City, located in the Salt Lake Valley in Utah, is a thriving suburban community with a rich history, diverse demographics, and a strong economy. As of the 2020 census, Sandy’s population is approximately 96,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in the region. The city has experienced significant growth over the past few decades, transitioning from a small farming community to a bustling urban center. Sandy’s proximity to Salt Lake City and the nearby Wasatch Mountains has made it an attractive place to live, offering residents easy access to both urban amenities and outdoor recreational activities.

Historically, Sandy was settled in the 1850s by Mormon pioneers, originally serving as an agricultural hub. The discovery of silver and other minerals in the nearby Little Cottonwood Canyon spurred economic development during the late 19th century, leading to the establishment of the area as a mining town. As the mining industry declined, Sandy evolved into a suburban community, with much of its growth occurring in the latter half of the 20th century as the Salt Lake metropolitan area expanded. Today, the city’s economy is diverse, with a mix of retail, healthcare, professional services, and technology companies. The Shops at South Town and the nearby South Towne Center are key commercial hubs, while the Sandy City Corporation and regional healthcare institutions provide employment opportunities. The city’s local economy is also boosted by its proximity to major transportation corridors and its role as a gateway for visitors heading to ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas in the mountains.

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