A Quiet Zone is a stretch of track where trains do not routinely sound their horns at grade crossings. It is not necessarily quiet. At each crossing the lights and bells are still activated. Upon approach to a crossing the train horn will not be required to sound.
The train operator may sound the horn at their discretion if they observe individuals, animals or hazards near the tracks and are concerned about safety. If construction work is occurring near the tracks they may also sound the horn. Additionally, when the train leaves the station they are required to sound the horn.
So, even though a 24-hour quiet zone may be established, we will continue hear the train horn in Santa Rosa, only with less frequency.
City of Santa Rosa Quiet Zones will include all of the grade crossings from San Miguel Road to Bellevue Avenue within the City limits.
Quiet zones, which require Federal Railroad Administration approval, reduce the amount of noise generated by train horns by increasing safety measures at railroad crossings.
Signs will be placed in accordance with California regulations at each crossing throughout Santa Rosa to alert drivers that the horns will not be sounded. The lights and bells that activate at the crossings will continue to be in effect for the safety of people and motorists.
August 2016, Formal Diagnostic Review was conducted with CPUC, FRA and SMART - completed
November 2016, Submit a Notice of Intent to FRA (60 day comment period) - completed
November 2016, Formalize and construct SSM's and ASM's - completed
Submit Notice of Establishment with specified date to FRA starting Quiet Zone - January 2017, Approval to submit delegated to City Manager - Awaiting final testing to be completed by SMART
June 7, 2017 Quiet Zone established within the city limits of Santa Rosa media release
2020 City of Santa Rosa to re-apply for Quiet Zone within the city limits
SMART Train Quiet Zone - additional information
Be aware that the train horn may not sound at railroad crossings in those area, unless there is an emergency.