A quiet zone, is a railroad line segment where rail engineers don’t have to sound their train horns at the crossing. Quiet zones will be fully established at each intersection along the University of Colorado A Line and the G Line once the lines open. However, during the testing phase, train horns will sound as part of the safety commissioning of the lines. Download our Quiet Zone fact sheet here.
In substitute of the horns, the following safety measures are put into place at these train and roadway intersections to keep pedestrians, vehicles and train passengers safe.
- Quadrant gate arms—Four gate arms in place to block lanes in both directions to stop vehicles from going around the gates when descended
- Pedestrian gates—A gate arm or pull swing gate at each intersection to alert them of a train coming
- Channelizing—Chain link fencing along the sidewalk approaching the intersection to channel pedestrians to the correct area; All crossings are compliant with the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Safety signs—Ample safety signs installed to alert pedestrians and vehicles of where to safely stop for the trains
- Audible and visual alerts—Bells at gate location and flashing red lights to alert all traffic that a train is coming
Even when the Quiet Zones are approved, the operator will still reserve the right to use their horn in any event they consider “unsafe” or poses imminent danger to life and property. Likewise, at any time the Federal Railroad Administration deems it necessary, the Quiet Zone can be eliminated and horn use resumed due to an increase in unsafe incidents at a crossing.
Remember, always obey all safety signs, lights and other warning devices when near train tracks. Always look both ways before crossing the track and only do so when all gate arms are up and the lights have stopped flashing. And, never trespass on any train. Visit the RTD safety information page here.
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