Bauska Highway Reconstruction: Residents Ask About Noise, the Cerauksts Avenue and Nature

As part of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the planned reconstruction of a section of the Bauska highway in Latvia, noise levels are to be modelled. An EIA is a procedure that examines, before construction begins, how a project may affect the surroundings and people. The local municipality shared the details after a meeting with residents, where several of their concerns were discussed. They covered noise, vibration, natural values and nearby infrastructure.

Noise and vibration

The noise modelling will also take into account the forecast traffic intensity up to 2055. If the assessment shows that noise limit values are exceeded, the necessary mitigation measures are to be planned, for example noise barriers. The impact of vibration will likewise be evaluated, both during construction and once the road is in use. For the construction period, road maintenance, wetting and dust-control measures are also to be assessed.

Natural values and infrastructure

The meeting also addressed the possible effect on natural values. Residents asked about preserving the Cerauksts avenue, which has protected status. The EIA process is meant to examine as well how animals can move through the area, culverts, bridges, drainage systems, hydrogeological conditions and other issues related to the natural environment.

Separately, participants discussed solutions at the border control point, including the function of control pockets. These are roadside spaces where vehicles can be stopped for inspection. The need to coordinate the plan with Rail Baltica infrastructure solutions was also raised.

The source does not say when the assessment will be completed or when reconstruction work could begin.