Quiet zones along the DART Silver Line will begin activating this summer, reducing horn noise and improving safety as the new commuter rail prepares for full service by late 2025. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Quiet Zones Along DART Silver Line Active Soon
Photo: Dallas Area Rapid Transit

DART Silver Line Enhances Safety Measures with Quiet Zones

Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is advancing quiet zone implementation across its DART Silver Line corridor. The 26-mile line links seven cities using EPA-compliant diesel multiple units (DMUs), supporting North Texas’ growing transportation needs.

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DART collaborated with the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and six municipalities to meet all safety regulations. During train testing, engineers must use horns at each crossing, but these requirements will ease once quiet zones activate.

The first area to activate is Coppell, with a start date of July 30. Addison and Dallas plan to follow on August 1, while Carrollton, Richardson, and Plano target August 22. However, all dates remain subject to FRA approval.

According to Trey Walker, vice president of capital programs at DART, prioritizing safety has guided every step. He credited the agency’s close coordination with city and federal partners for meeting rigorous quiet zone standards.

DART Silver Line Commuters to Experience Reduced Noise

Once in effect, quiet zones will significantly lower noise levels along the corridor. Train horns will no longer sound automatically at crossings unless a real-time hazard demands it.

To meet federal guidelines, DART introduced added protections including quad gates, fencing, and unmountable curbs. These infrastructure upgrades deter vehicles from driving around barriers, enhancing safety without frequent horn use.

This milestone reflects DART’s dedication to improving both mobility and quality of life. Residents along the route have long advocated for quieter operations, and the agency has delivered by meeting FRA requirements while advancing the broader Silver Line project.

As the DART Silver Line nears completion, quiet zone activation highlights a balance between modern transit expansion and neighborhood well-being. With full service on the horizon, DART reinforces its role as a trusted provider of safe and sustainable urban transport.

Source: www.metro-magazine.com

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