FRA to reevaluate train horn rules, Colorado senators say

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) recently agreed to review its train horn rules and consider ways to make required grade crossing upgrades associated with a quiet zone more affordable for local taxpayers, U.S. Sens. Mark Udall (D-Colo.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) announced last week.

The reassessment, which the FRA noted at a Railroad Safety Advisory Committee meeting held Oct. 31, will enable Colorado communities to weigh in on the rules as early as spring 2014, the senators said in a joint statement.

Over the past several months, Udall and Bennet have urged the FRA to reassess its train horn rules and provide Colorado communities more flexibility to address train noise and protect public safety. In July, the senators introduced amendments to the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act that would have required the FRA to work with Colorado communities to examine existing train horn rules, consider revisions and report findings to Congress.

"I have long argued that the FRA's train-noise rules, while well intentioned, were not working for Colorado communities that want to spur economic development and protect residents' quality of life," said Udall. "The FRA's promise to reassess its rules and seek input from Colorado communities is a win for local taxpayers."

The reevaluation will balance safety concerns with communities' desire to revitalize urban areas, promote economic growth and prevent undesirable noise, added Bennet.