Vibration and acoustic measurements

Vibration and acoustic measurements along the future tram circuit

As part of the preparatory studies for the Gatineau-Ottawa tram project, vibration and acoustic measurements will be taken over the next few weeks all along the circuit.

Vibration tests are a government requirement, aimed at assessing how the ground currently reacts to vibrations, and are used to design a model that provides a solid projection of the tram’s passage. Groupe Porteur will install sensors in various spots along the circuit to measure the vibrations at set distances. Some residents will be approached for permission to install a sensor on their property or in their home during the testing.

The acoustic measurements, which are also mandatory, will be taken along the circuit, in front of sensitive homes and buildings. They are intended to measure the current noise level, and assess the potential impact of the tram’s passage.

In the field, those studies may include the following activities:

It is generally acknowledged that trams have less of an impact than several cars driving by. However, some areas may require mitigation measures to minimize the impact of the noise and vibrations, namely in the case of buildings containing vibration-sensitive equipment. The tests will help confirm those locations and provide for adequate mitigation measures.

The results of those vibration and acoustic tests will be presented to the public as part of the public consultations planned for 2026.