Since that time, noise levels have, if anything, increased as urban borders continue to expand. Noise is becoming even more of an issue with the reawakening of environmental consciousness and the construction of industrial plants, highways, airports, and rail lines in close proximity to residential developments.
Most municipalities deal with noise only after a problem surfaces.
Even when these problems are confronted, however, the technical nature of acoustics and noise control can create misunderstandings and legal battles that often do not effectively solve the problem at hand. Most potential noise sources can be identified and controlled through an effective community planning process and through enforcement of noise control ordinances.