Quiet zones under public scrutiny in Colorado, Texas cities

The city of Fort Collins, Colo., plans to host an open house today to update the public on the development of quiet zones in the downtown area.

Over the past year, city officials have been exploring options for implementing quiet zones at downtown grade crossings. To meet Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) quiet zone requirements, certain safety measures must be taken at the crossings.

Without a quiet zone, train horns must be sounded at the crossings according to FRA regulations, city officials said in a meeting notice.

Meanwhile, Laredo, Texas, officials expect to soon hold a public meeting on the proposed development of quiet zones.

The city is considering the implementation of quiet zones at 12 crossings. Laredo officials are working with Union Pacific Railroad on the plan and expect to also work with Kansas City Southern.