Metro-North to launch 'quiet cars' in Connecticut

Today, MTA Metro-North Railroad plans to introduce “quiet cars” on its New Haven Line during select rush-hour trains.

The program will prohibit loud conversations and the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices that make noise on the cars, unless the device can be used in a way that does not create noise.

"Quiet cars have enjoyed great popularity and success elsewhere in the Northeast and it's time we brought them to Connecticut," said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner James P. Redeker in a prepared statement.

The department and Metro-North plan to conduct customer surveys to gauge feedback on the initiative in both states. If the response is favorable, the pilot may be expanded or become permanent later this year.

The program will be voluntary and self-monitored by riders. However, conductors will issue "shh" cards to riders who don’t comply with the rules.