Horns must be loud

In response to Alan Schulz's complaint about trains sounding their horns (Readers' Forum, Nov. 14), I suggest he do a little research. Check out www.fra.dot.gov/us/content/1773 for the fact sheet from the Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration.

Train horns must have a minimum of 96 decibels. Trains must sound their horns at certain crossings. A quiet zone can be established, but it requires certain safety installations such as a type of gate system and may require median barriers.

The local government, the railroad and the state transportation authority must consider a variety of issues "such as highway traffic volumes, train traffic volumes, the accident history and physical characteristics of the crossing, including existing safety measures."

Sorry about the noise, but it is a safety issue.

Kenneth Evans

Midway