Golden Gate Village Acoustic Consulting

By Anthony Wong | Senior Consultant, Acoustics, Bay Area

Our Bay Area office’s acoustics team is proud to support the rehabilitation and revitalization of Golden Gate Village, a historic affordable housing community in Marin City, California. First opened in 1961, Golden Gate Village is home to 28 buildings providing 296 affordable housing units and has long been a cornerstone of the community. In recognition of its cultural and architectural significance, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2017 and is also listed on the California Register of Historical Resources.

The $266.6 million renovation will take place in two phases. Phase one construction plans to kick-off this year and focuses on several of the low-rise buildings. Located just below US 101, Golden Gate Village is jointly owned and operated by Burbank Housing and the Marin Housing Authority. The project aims to preserve the site’s historic character while improving comfort and livability for residents.

As part of the design team, Coffman supported the project architect, Pyatok Architecture + Urban Design, with acoustic consulting services. Our team utilized the 3D sound modeling program, SoundPLAN, in conjunction with on-site calibration noise measurements to determine the freeway noise exposure at each of the 28 buildings. The 30-acre site contains unique topography; each building is at a different distance, elevation, and orientation relative to the freeway. Sound modeling allowed us to take the terrain and orientation of buildings into account and assess the acoustic impact of the freeway at each building and understand how the sound levels change across the project site. The sound modeling and on-site noise measurements were compiled into an environmental noise report.

Environmental noise reports play an important role in housing projects like Golden Gate Village. By identifying potential noise concerns early and recommending practical solutions, these studies help design teams create buildings that support resident comfort.

Sound modeling is a key part of this process, allowing consultants to look ahead and understand how future noise conditions may affect the site, not just existing ones. For residential communities, this forward-looking approach is essential to creating healthier, more comfortable living environments for years to come.

For more details or project specific guidance, contact us. We’re here to help!