A new quiet zone in Fairhaven went into effect Monday, March 10.
The zone is the result of two decades of planning and safety upgrades at five rail crossings along 1.25 miles of track, according to a city news release. Previously, trains had to sound horns at each crossing. Now, trains will only sound horns in emergencies or in specific circumstances for safety reasons.
The five crossings — the Alaska Ferry access road, Bayview Road at Bouevard Park, Harris Avenue, Seaview South Access private crossing and the Boulevard Park pedestrian crossing — now have automated crossing control gates, pedestrian exit gates, flashing signals and new signage, according to the release.
A collaboration between the City of Bellingham and the Port of Bellingham, the agencies worked with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission and the Federal Railroad Administration to make sure the project was meeting all safety requirements.
“The Fairhaven Quiet Zone will support a more peaceful, livable city for generations to come,” said Port Executive Director Rob Fix in the release. “This project has been a priority for many years and, through strategic infrastructure investments, the Port is committed to reducing noise, enhancing safety and improving the quality of life for all residents of Whatcom County.”
The city and port are working on another quiet zone on Bellingham’s Waterfront, which will include crossings on Pine Street, Cornwall Avenue, Laurel Street, Central Street, C Street and F Street. So far, safety upgrades are complete for C Street, Laurel Street and F Street, with upgrades underway for Pine Street. Funding is needed to complete the remaining safety upgrades.
Charlotte Alden is CDN’s general assignment/enterprise reporter; reach her at charlottealden@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 123.
