'Quiet Zones' to cut down on train whistles in neighborhoods

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Southside Lafayette neighborhoods are about to get a bit quieter.

Starting tomorrow, new railroad "Quiet Zones" will cut down on the amount of train whistles heard near train tracks.

Certain measures such as flashing lights, crossing gates and some wider curbs and medians help make the crossings safer.

Residents will still hear occasional whistles if there is a safety issue.

City officials brought initial estimates of $5 million down to about $700,000 and the project was funded by TIF funds.

"We are thrilled that we were able to complete that," said Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski.

"We feel it's another example of local government listening to their citizens, trying to find solutions to improve people's quality of life and also doing it in a fiscally responsible way and living within our means to do it."

According to Tammy Wagner, Regional Crossing and Trespasser Manager with the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration, the south side of Lafayette is now just the seventh area in Indiana to be designated a "Quiet Zone."