Quiet zones to be reinstated in San Marcos
Train horns have been a divisive topic in the San Marcos community for the past year. Many residents complain about the noise, especially late at night, while others find the horns soothing or a nonissue. As of Aug. 19 the city of San Marcos received confirmation from Union Pacific Railroad that multiple railroad crossings will have their quiet zones reinstated once all train operators receive the notification.
In May of 2024, the city of San Marcos notified the public that an inspection conducted by Union Pacific and the Federal Railroad Administration had identified quiet zone deficiencies at multiple crossings, resulting in the temporary reactivation of train horns.
Quiet zones were implemented in 2015 at 24 railroad crossings, which helped reduce noise for nearby residents and businesses.
“In order to maintain quiet zones at railroad crossings, the city must maintain enhanced safety measures at railroad crossings according to FRA requirements. These include installation of automatic warning devices, such as flashing lights and gates and construction of medians as determined by an analysis of traffic volume, accident history and physical characteristics of crossings,” stated the 2024 city press release.
The inspection found several deficiencies including medians measuring below the minimum height requirement, as well as signage and striping violations.
“The City has done a great job of keeping the community informed with quiet zone updates as the project has progressed,” Senior Communication Specialist Madeline Baker said in an email to the Record. With multiple Facebook posts depicting updates and a website page that lists extensive information on the quiet zone policies, the city has remained transparent throughout the reinstatement process. More than a year after the failed inspection, the Union Pacific Railroad conducted the final inspection and city staff submitted the required Notice of Establishment.
The quiet zone reinstatement process came at a price to the city but included construction upgrades.
“$600,000 has been used for construction, permitting, and engineering services. Most of that total amount was paid for with American Rescue Plan funds,” city staff said in an email to the Record.
For more information on quiet zones including a timeline of the improvements one can visit the city’s website at sanmarcostx. gov/quietzones.
City improvements made at railroad crossings resulted in the reestablishment of quiet zones. Photo courtesy of the city of San Marcos
A crossing in San Marcos includes a ‘no train horn’ sign to inform residents. Photo courtesy of the city of San Marcos
