Quiet Zone Overview

A Quiet Zone refers to a section of a track that contains one or more consecutive public crossings at which locomotive horns are not required to be routinely sounded when trains pass through at-grade crossings. In the absence of a Quiet Zone, railroad companies are required by law to sound the horn on the approach at least ΒΌ mile before the train arrives at the crossing in advance of all public at-grade crossings until the train has passed through the crossing.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) allows local governments to apply for Quiet Zones to restrict the sounding of the horn when certain safety requirements are met. The requirements are intended to ensure that the safety features along the corridor of crossings are equal to or better than safety benefits provided by the sounding of the horn. As such, the local government will initiate the Quiet Zone process. Please fill out this form with your contact information and place a mark indicating your support for or against the creation of a Quiet Zone In Rogers.

Please fill out the form below and let us know what you think about establishing a quiet zone in Rogers.

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The Railroad Quiet Zone in Rogers, TX, is a designated area where train horns are not allowed to be sounded, except in emergency situations. The quiet zone was established to reduce noise pollution and improve the quality of life for residents and businesses in the area.

Background

The Railroad Quiet Zone in Rogers, TX, was established in 2015, after the city council passed an ordinance to create a quiet zone along the railroad tracks that run through the city. The quiet zone is approximately 1.5 miles long and covers the area from the intersection of Main Street and Railroad Avenue to the intersection of Highway 317 and Railroad Avenue.

Rules and Regulations

The Railroad Quiet Zone in Rogers, TX, is governed by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The rules and regulations for the quiet zone are as follows:

  • Train horns: Train horns are not allowed to be sounded, except in emergency situations, such as when a person or vehicle is on the tracks.
  • Warning devices: Trains are required to use alternative warning devices, such as bells or lights, to alert pedestrians and vehicles of their approach.
  • Speed limits: Trains are required to reduce their speed to 20 mph or less when approaching the quiet zone.
  • Maintenance: The railroad company is responsible for maintaining the tracks and warning devices in the quiet zone.

Benefits

The Railroad Quiet Zone in Rogers, TX, has several benefits, including:

  • Reduced noise pollution: The quiet zone reduces noise pollution from train horns, which can be a disturbance to residents and businesses.
  • Improved quality of life: The quiet zone improves the quality of life for residents and businesses in the area, by reducing noise pollution and creating a more peaceful environment.
  • Increased property values: The quiet zone can increase property values in the area, by making it a more desirable place to live and work.
  • Enhanced safety: The quiet zone can enhance safety, by reducing the risk of accidents caused by train horns and increasing the visibility of trains.

Challenges

The Railroad Quiet Zone in Rogers, TX, also has some challenges, including:

  • Cost: The cost of establishing and maintaining the quiet zone can be high, and may be borne by the city or the railroad company.
  • Enforcement: Enforcing the rules and regulations of the quiet zone can be challenging, and may require the cooperation of the railroad company and local law enforcement.
  • Maintenance: Maintaining the tracks and warning devices in the quiet zone can be a challenge, and may require regular inspections and repairs.

Conclusion

The Railroad Quiet Zone in Rogers, TX, is a valuable asset to the community, providing a more peaceful and safe environment for residents and businesses. While there are challenges associated with establishing and maintaining the quiet zone, the benefits of reduced noise pollution, improved quality of life, and enhanced safety make it a worthwhile investment.