FRA clarifies railroads can choose whether to sound horns at passenger stations
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The Federal Railroad Administration has issued a final rule that changes how locomotive horns are handled at passenger stations. The rule states that no federal regulation requires a railroad to sound a horn simply because a passenger station is present.
Why it matters: This is a practical shift in noise control and operational policy. By removing the mandatory requirement and the minimum volume standard for stations, the rule gives railroads the flexibility to reduce noise in urban areas or near residential zones where stations are located. It is not a ban on horns, but it removes the federal mandate that forces a specific volume level in these specific spots.
Who it affects
- Passenger rail operators and commuter services
This action was taken by the Federal Railroad Administration and published in the Federal Register; readers should check the original document for specific implementation details and effective dates.
Agency: Transportation Department, Federal Railroad Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document