How does life near the highway affect its residents' wellbeing in Brooklyn, New York today?

This independent research study examines the relationship between living near major highways and self-reported wellbeing among Brooklyn, New York, residents. Using an online survey, data were collected from 31 eligible participants regarding traffic noise, sleep disturbances, air quality, stress, headaches, and overall neighborhood quality of life. Of the 31 participants, 25 reported living near a major highway, while six did not. Respondents living near highways tended to report more frequent noise-related sleep disturbances, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.198). Other wellbeing measures showed mixed results. The findings provide insight into residents' experiences while acknowledging limitations related to sample size, self-reported information, and sampling methods. Further research with larger and more balanced samples is needed to better understand these relationships.