Maintain crossing safety while reducing train noise

New federal rules permit communities to eliminate train locomotive horn noise at railroad crossings.

To maintain safety, each crossing in a Quiet Zone must be equipped with one of three safety devices:

Crossing gates that block traffic in both directions

An approved median divider to prevent motorists from crossing into the on-coming lanes to go around the gates

An automated horn system installed at the crossing as a train horn substitute

To create a Quiet Zone

Select the appropriate safety devices for your crossings

Run the Federal Railroad Administration Quiet Zone Calculator

Schedule any necessary railroad signal work with the railroad

Install the safety devices

Update the federal grade crossing inventory for the crossings

File notices with federal and local agencies and the railroad

Install "Horn will not sound" signs for motorists

Getting help

Evaluating Quiet Zone safety device options and managing the complexities of railroad and government bureaucracies can take valuable time away from your community focus.

With Woodharbor Associates as your partner, you can:

Count on expert advice regarding the best safety device options for your locations and budget

Rest assured that your needs are being coordinated with the railroad in the most efficient manner possible

Benefit from years of experience interacting with railroads and government agencies

Draw on experience with the federal grade crossing inventory and the FRA Quiet Zone Calculator

Access an on-call network of railroad signal and crossing expertise

Streamline the project timeline -- bring quieter railroad crossings to your community quickly