The Hawaii Department of Transportation recently launched a noise detection pilot program that will install noise detection cameras on several key roadways across the island of Oahu.
[Above image by Hawaii DOT]
The first of those cameras are being placed on the H-3 Freeway at the Halekou Interchange – where it joins with the Kamehameha Highway – along with a camera on Ala Moana Boulevard near Kalia Road. Eight more locations in the top 10 will be installed by January 2026, the agency said.
Hawaii DOT noted in a statement that the purpose of this noise detection pilot program is to gather data on the types and levels of noise generated by vehicles on Oahu roads and stressed that no tickets will be issued.
[Editor’s note: In 2024, a two-part series on “The Stream by AASHTO” podcast illustrated how state departments of transportation across the U.S. are working to minimize the impact of roadway noise in their respective regions.]
The agency noted that it selected the locations for noise camera installation based on complaints recorded by the Honolulu Police Department or HPD.
An additional 12 roadway locations have been identified for potential data gathering pending engineering assessment. A map with additional details on the sites is available at https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/noise-detection-cameras/.
Once the sites begin gathering data, Hawaii DOT said it will prepare monthly reports on the number of events detected exceeding 90 decibels at the roadway locations involved in this pilot program, as well as the type of vehicle noise observed (e.g., engine, muffler, etc.). Those reports will be used to help with future legislation on vehicle noise and HPD enforcement.
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