Quiet zone created for Metrolink, BNSF crossings

Passenger and freight trains operating through an 8-mile section of track in Riverside, Calif., have stopped blowing horns at crossings, Metrolink announced yesterday.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) approved the "quiet zone" after several safety enhancements were added to a dozen crossings in the city, which is about 60 miles east of Los Angeles.

The quiet zone designation was a collaborative effort between the city of Riverside and the Riverside County Transportation Commission, as well as BNSF Railway Co., which owns the track.

Metrolink operates its Inland Empire-Orange County and 91/Perris Valley lines through the corridor. Amtrak's Southwest Chief trains also use the route.

Train horns still may be blown in emergencies, such as when operators see someone on the tracks, Metrolink officials said in a press release.

The quiet zone went into effect Nov. 17. Riverside city officials began designing improvements for the $13 million project in 2011, The Press-Enterprise reported.