PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA (November 20, 2023) — In the quest to address the persistent issue of train horn noise, the City of West Palm Beach and the City of Riviera Beach have embarked on a journey to establish Quiet Zones, providing a more peaceful and safer environment for their communities. I am pleased to be working with both cities to advance this initiative in their communities. From a traffic engineering and safety perspective, I can’t underscore enough the importance of Quiet Zones.
Beginning of the Quiet Zones Initiative
Summer marked the beginning of this endeavor, with the City of West Palm Beach filing a Notice of Intent (NOI) to pursue the creation of Quiet Zones. Now, as Brightline operates at full capacity and the train horn noise continues to impact the community, the next step in this process is crucial – the Notice of Establishment (NOE).
The NOE is akin to the NOI but signifies a significant advancement toward achieving the goal of quieter and safer rail crossings. Once filed, the NOE typically initiates a 21-day countdown before train horns are silenced at designated crossings within the Quiet Zone. This transition toward quieter rail crossings not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also contributes to overall safety.
Proactive Steps for a Quieter Holiday Season
Considering the upcoming holiday season and the community’s desire for a quieter environment, it is strongly recommended that the City proceeds with filing for the NOE in November. This proactive approach ensures that the Quiet Zones are established and operational before the Christmas holiday break, bringing tranquility to the community and enhancing safety during this festive time.
The City of West Palm Beach and Riviera Beach’s commitment to addressing train horn noise through the establishment of Quiet Zones reflects their dedication to the well-being and safety of their residents. I am pleased to be contributing to the success of these projects. The proactive filing for the NOE in November aligns with the community’s aspirations for a quieter environment during the holiday season and sets the stage for quieter, safer rail crossings in the near future.
