Albertans Upset Over Rail Noise

As reported in this front-page Edmonton Journal article, the hamlet of Wildwood, about 100km west of Edmonton, has been trying for seven years to get CN to stop blowing their whistles or horns at two railway crossings in the hamlet. Residents have complained for years and have been collecting decibel readings of the whistles/horns to prove their point.  Anything over 85 decibels is reason for concern for hearing impairment says a former County Councillor, and none of the readings they have collected is lower than 89 decibels.

The two railway crossings in Wildwood have been equipped with safety measures such as bells, flashing lights, and crossing arms. Once these safety issues have been addressed, it is possible to apply to Transport Canada for a whistling exemption. Before such an exemption is granted, both Transport Canada and the railway company must conduct a safety audit to ensure that trains can stop whistling safely.

In Strathcona County just east of Edmonton, Council recently voted unanimously to look at mitigating train whistle noise through County hamlets in response to complaints from residents. See this Sherwood Park News article.

~ by railroaded on February 10, 2011.