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Macrophage87 t1_j4w3e5n wrote

Also, is there some reason that trains have to blow their horn at 2 AM? In virtually all parts of the district, you can't get on the railroad tracks accidently, because it's surrounded by fencing. It's not like rural areas where people regularly cross the tracks, it's grade separated everywhere. The idea that we need to give a warning signal seems silly. The only people on those tracks are railroad workers and passengers, who clearly know about trains coming; and trespassers, where it's their own fault.

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hooliganswoon t1_j4wourf wrote

https://railroads.dot.gov/highway-rail-crossing-and-trespasser-programs/train-horn-rulequiet-zones/train-horn-rule-and-quiet

It’s a federal regulation that they blow for crossings

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Macrophage87 t1_j4wvoap wrote

>Establishing Quiet Zones:

The final rule also provides an opportunity for localities nationwide to mitigate the effects of train horn noise by establishing “new quiet zones.” “No horn” restriction which may have existed prior to the establishment of the rule may be qualified to be “pre-rule quiet zones”. In a quiet zone, railroads have been directed to cease the routine sounding their horns when approaching public highway-rail grade crossings. Train horns may still be used in emergency situations or to comply with other Federal regulations or railroad operating rules. Localities desiring to establish a quiet zone are first required to mitigate the increased risk caused by the absence of a horn.

This is an option too. I like trains and all but should the entire northeast have to hear loud blasts at 2 AM if there are other options? Clearly we don't want to jeopardize safety, but shouldn't some allowance be made for quiet hours.

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