Why do trains sound their horns?

To keep drivers, pedestrians and cyclists safe, federal law requires train crews to sound the horn when approaching all public crossings, even if the crossing has gates and lights. (Trains may also sound horns at non-crossing locations in emergency situations, such as when a person or animal is on the tracks.) Federal rules require train horns to blow at a sound level between 96 and 110 decibels. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) can fine train crews for not sounding the horn adequately.

A quiet zone is a designated section of a rail line where train horns are not required to routinely sound at public crossings. These zones are established to reduce noise pollution in residential and commercial areas while using alternative safety measures to keep people safe.

Only crossings that have met FRA criteria to be designated as quiet zones do not require crews to sound the horn.

How do you establish a quiet zone?

Quiet zones are implemented in accordance with FRA regulations. To qualify, a community must establish additional safety measures at crossings to compensate for the absence of train horns.

These measures may include four-quadrant gates, medians, overpasses, underpasses, one-way street designations or other customized solutions approved by the FRA to ensure public safety. The FRA, rail companies and local government authorities conduct risk assessments to determine whether the proposed safety measures are sufficient.

Who is responsible for maintaining a quiet zone?

Communities that establish quiet zones are responsible for ongoing maintenance and ensuring safety measures remain effective. Regular inspections and compliance with FRA regulations are essential to maintain the quiet zone designation.

Local governments, like cities or counties, are expected to maintain any infrastructure installed in the creation of a quiet zone.

How is it paid for?

According to figures provided by BNSF, the upgrades necessary to establish a quiet zone cost anywhere from $250,000 to $1.2 million. Area residents who directly benefit from a quiet zone would be responsible for funding the required infrastructure improvements.

This would most likely be through a Special District or Rural Special Improvement District (RSID), fees for which would then appear on tax bills of property owners in the district. Residents who want to create a quiet zone would need to collect the petition signatures needed to create the special district and submit them to the Missoula County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. Area residents can also directly pay for the improvements.

Regardless of payment method, coordination with the Missoula County Public Works Department is critical. Click here to contact Public Works.