City Transportation Department crews are working around the clock to get the Downtown Quiet Zone reinstated and ensure train crossings Downtown are clearly marked and safe for everyone.  

The Federal Railroad Administration suspended the Quiet Zone last week after an inspection revealed the need for updates at a dozen intersections. These updates are crucial to make the railroad crossings safe and allow trains to pass without the usual requirement of honking their horns in alert before passing through an intersection. 

Locomotive engineers are required to begin to sound train horns at least 15 seconds, and no more than 20 seconds, in advance of all public crossings. However, cities that meet certain safety requirements are allowed to designate as a “quiet zone” a segment of a rail line with one or more consecutive crossings by satisfying technical requirements put in place to keep people safe.  

Working urgently with the Federal Railroad Association since last week and over the weekend, the City has completed the production and installation of the required signage, roadway preparation and pavement markings as of Wednesday, Jan. 24. 

The City is also performing a seven day traffic count survey required to bring the zone back into compliance and expects to have the survey completed and submitted to the FRA for review by next week.

The City fully recognizes and apologizes for the distress the Quiet Zone suspension is causing Downtown residents who live near these train tracks.

City officials will continue working closely with the FRA to resolve this situation as quickly as possible, and will continue providing regular updates to the public until it is.