Q: What is a Quiet Zone?
A: A Quiet Zone, approved and authorized by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), is a public grade crossing(s) where additional
safety precautions have been constructed, thus reducing the federal requirement for trains to sound their horns when approaching the crossing(s). When
the Quiet Zone is in effect, the train will not be legally required to blow the horn when approaching crossings, except in an emergency.
Establishing a Quiet Zone in Asheville will improve the quality of life of residents and visitors by reducing train horn noise and at the same time
improving safety conditions for vehicles and pedestrians.
Q: At what intersections will the Quiet Zone be in effect?
A: The plan for the Quiet Zone is still being finalized, but the initial investigation has the Quiet Zone extending from the Pearson
Bridge Rd. crossing all the way to the Glendale Ave. crossing. A total of 10 at-grade crossings have been identified. For more details check out
www.AshevilleQuietZone.org/QZMap.jpg.
Q: How will the Quiet Zone benefit Asheville?
A: A major reduction in train horn noise would improve life for residents and visitors and the planned safety upgrades will add
precautions for pedestrians and vehicles at the railroad crossings.
Q: What improvements must be made at the grade crossings to qualify Asheville for a Quiet Zone?
A: Railroad crossing improvements will vary by location. Included will be combinations of additional vehicle crossing gates, pedestrian
gates, pre-signals on approaching crossings, median islands and extended medians, additional flashing lights, additional warning signage, re-striping,
and the possible installation of queue cutters and other improvements.
Q: How much noise will really be reduced in the Quiet Zone?
A: Noise reduction will be significant. A designated Quiet Zone stops the routine sounding of the horn that is used to warn motorists
and pedestrians that the train is approaching the crossing. Train horn blowing will continue in the case of emergencies. It is important to note that
the locomotive engineer has full discretion to sound the horn in any emergency situation.
It also does not stop the use of the horn when advising train crew members the train is about to move, to warn workers on or near the track or when the
crossing warning devices are not operating.
Q: Will there be a lot of construction near my residence for this Quiet Zone project?
A: The construction necessary for the railway crossing improvements will be minimal and will not be disruptive. It will only take place
for a brief period in each crossing area as the safety improvements are installed.
Q: Where can I get information on the Quiet Zone project?
A: Details and updates regarding the project are available at www.AashevilleQuietZone.org.
Q: What are trains legally required to do when approaching crossings?
A: Currently, the Federal Rule 49 CFR 222 "Use of Locomotive Horns at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings" is now in effect. This rule provides
for safety at public highway rail grade crossings by requiring locomotive horn use at all crossings that are not within an established Quiet Zone.
The train horn must be sounded in a discernible pattern of two long blasts, one short blast and one long blast 15 to 20 seconds before the crossing and
prolonged until the train occupies the crossing. If multiple crossings are close together, the engineer can vary this pattern. Train horn use is in effect
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. if Asheville establishes a Quiet Zone, this rule would not be in effect, unless the engineer identified a potential emergency
or safety issue.
The Federal Rule 49 CFR 222 "Use of Locomotive Horns at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings" is now in effect.
The rule states:
Subpart B §222.23 ...a locomotive engineer may sound the locomotive horn to provide a warning to animals, vehicle operators, pedestrians, trespassers,
and crews of other trains in an emergency situation, if, in the locomotive engineer's sole judgment, such action is appropriate in order to prevent
imminent injury, death, or property damage.
Download the Railroad Quiet Zones Opinion Survey.
You can mail, fax or email your completed survey to RiverLink:
PO Box 15488
Asheville, NC 28813-0488
Fax: 828-253-6846
Phone 828-252-8474
Karen@riverlink.org.
