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This paper refers to a study of the problem of traffic noise on roads which have been transformed into big avenues in the city of Curitiba. Noise levels are measured and the impacts suffered by the community documented. Around the main roads inside the urban perimeter of Curitiba, simultaneous measurements were done regarding noise levels, vehicle flow and traffic composition and thus some mathematical models have been developed in order to estimate those sound pressure levels. The measured levels have been compared with the calculated ones obtained from the mathematical model and the German Standard RLS-90 as well. The validity of the mathematical models were confirmed, as well as the applicability of the calculation method adopted by the German Standard RLS-90. Finally, the mean traffic noise levels around those roads and the noise limits of the municipal law 8583/1995 were examined and it was confirmed that people living or working in these areas are exposed to noise levels beyond the legislated norms. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]