Michigan City to become a train-horn Quiet Zone

As the double track Northwest Indiana project on the South Shore Line (SSL) nears completion, the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) last week announced several safety improvements in Michigan City, Indiana.

The improvements also paved the way for the NICTD right-of-way through Michigan City to become a Quiet Zone, where aside from emergencies, trains are not permitted to sound their horns. The zone will apply to any trains operating on NICTD-owned tracks in the city.

As part of the double-track project, which spans from Gary to Michigan City and includes the construction of 11th Street Station, the NICTD has permanently closed 20 grade crossings and made improvements to 38 crossings, ensuring they each have safety equipment.

The Federal Railroad Administration has approved Michigan City's application to become an official Quiet Zone. The city notified stakeholders earlier this month that the zone has been established and the routine sounding of train horns will cease Oct. 7.