Post Falls officials have abandoned plans for a railroad quiet zone after determining the high cost outweighs the benefit of reducing train horn noise in residential areas. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Post Falls officials have abandoned plans for a railroad quiet zone after determining the high cost outweighs the benefit of reducing train horn noise in residential areas
Source, photo: cdapress.com

The city has 34 rail crossings—22 for BNSF and 12 for Union Pacific. While residents support quieter neighborhoods, the City Council emphasized the financial burden of creating quiet zones.

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Initial estimates show implementation could cost up to $10.3 million. With a potential overpass at Poleline Avenue, that figure might drop to between $2.2 and $2.7 million. Annual maintenance would add $70,000 to $150,000.

Railroad Safety Cited as Key Concern by City Officials

City engineer Rob Palus stressed that train engineers can still sound horns if they identify hazards like trespassers or workers. He noted the Federal Railroad Administration supports this authority for safety.

Historical safety data indicates higher fatality rates when horns are not used at crossings. Union Pacific officials argue that quiet zones endanger both operators and the public.

Councilor Samantha Steigleder admitted a quiet zone would benefit residents. But she said current budget limitations make it unfeasible, despite the potential for improving daily life.

Council Rejects Costly Railroad Study and Prioritizes Other Needs

Councilor Randy Westlund dismissed the idea entirely. He criticized spending $100,000 on a study without securing funding. He also questioned the safety of implementing changes opposed by railroad companies.

Palus confirmed the city revisits the idea every few years, but continues to focus on other initiatives. The council now seeks to add crossings, including one at Chase Road, to improve transportation infrastructure.

Councilor Joe Malloy summarized the issue by calling it a nuisance—not a safety or capacity problem. The railroads have operated in the area long before modern developments began.

Though nearby Rathdrum has had a successful quiet zone since 2011, Post Falls leaders opted against similar measures. They reached unanimous consensus, without a vote, to discontinue pursuit of the railroad quiet zone plan.

Source, photo: cdapress.com

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