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6/15/2022
The South Dakota State Railroad Board is considering using federal funds designated for short-line infrastructure to establish quiet zones at grade crossings.
The board will discuss the idea and accept public comments on July 20. A Federal Railroad Administration official will also attend to explain the process of establishing quiet zones, board officials said in a press release.
The funding would come from Special Transportation Circumstance (STC) grants, which fall under the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) and Restoration and Enhancement Grant programs. The board will decide Aug. 17 if it will use STC funds to establish quiet zones.
Quiet zones are established to silence routine train horns, except in emergency situations. Train crews are still allowed to sound a horn when trespassers or vehicles are on the track, for example. A quiet zone must be equipped with flashing lights, gates, power-out indicators and warning time on each track, if practical.