Are people making too big of a deal about proposed 540? (Raleigh: houses, neighborhoods)

[momto2cs]

Hi All,

Just wanted opinions on both sides of this issue. We're considering Cameron Pond and are not really concerned about the "dreaded 540". Our home in Northern Virginia was in a development that bordered a highway, and there was no sound barrier wall. We highway noise was not an issue, and in fact, we loved the convenience of being close for commuting. Granted, we didn't back up directly to the highway, and the homes close to it certainly heard some noise, but it wasn't terrible.

I'm just wondering if people aren't being unnecessarily scared off by this proposed highway expansion that's not even slated to begin in the immediate future?

[urbywan]

Build the darn thing already. Waste more time waiting makes little sense.

[raleighjayne]

I think its all relative to what you're used to. My husband and I wouldn't consider a home near 540 because of the traffic noise, but we moved here from a much smaller area. I also wouldn't look at houses in the Leesville area because of the airport noise. But the airport noise here is nothing compared to what my friends in the Chicago suburbs have so they'd probably think it was no big deal.

There will be some people who won't buy a house too close to 540 but there will be plenty of others who won't let it deter them.

[Dire Wolf]

The problem with something that is "future plans" is that you can't just go out there and check it out to see if it is an issue for you. At least with a house in N. Raleigh near 540 you can drive out there and check it out and see if the noise or whatever bothers you.

All you can do in Cameron Pond, Highcroft, etc. is look at stuff on a map (that may change) and make your best guesses.

I think most homes in these neighborhoods will be just fine, and in fact the easy to access to 540 will be a plus. But there is always a risk that a few lots will really be crappy.

[metro.m]

Here we go again...