Columbus considers quiet zones medians to help with train noise

COLUMBUS, Neb. - For many residents of Columbus, the frequent train activity has become a significant disruption, causing excessive whistle blowing and traffic lines. In response, the city is exploring the idea of quiet zones, aiming to alleviate these disturbances while maintaining the efficiency of rail transport. 

The proposed plan seeks to balance the needs of the community with the demands of the railway, addressing concerns that have grown with increased train traffic.

Mayor Jim Bulkley outlined the concept of the quiet zone, explaining that it involves strategically designing intersections to deter vehicles from circumventing safety measures. 

"The quiet zone is designed so cars can't turn around," said Bulkley. "They can't get under the crossing arms, and it becomes a barrier between two lanes that nobody can get through, and therefore the horns aren't required." 

This approach aims to minimize the necessity for trains to sound their horns at crossings, reducing noise pollution in residential areas. Bulkley emphasized the potential benefits, citing the positive impact on the quality of life for residents, as demonstrated by similar initiatives in cities like Kearney.

The proposed quiet zones would focus on the 23rd and 26th street crossings, requiring significant adjustments. According to city officials, this undertaking is far from simple, involving the installation of specialized signaling systems, mechanical mechanisms for track operation, and the reconstruction of intersections. 

These modifications are essential to ensure the safety and functionality of the railway while achieving the desired noise reduction. The complexity of these changes underscores the challenges in existing infrastructure to meet the city’s demands.

While quiet zones offer a viable solution, the city has also considered constructing viaducts over key intersections, similar to those already in place at 33rd Avenue, 12th, and 3rd Street. These viaducts, which funnel traffic over the train tracks, would eliminate the need for train crossings altogether. However, Mayor Bulkley noted that the railroad's requirement for crossing closures during construction has been a major obstacle, as it disrupts traffic flow and faces resistance from the community. Furthermore, the estimated cost of $21 to $31 million per viaduct far exceeds the expense of implementing quiet zones.

Despite the higher cost, city officials acknowledge that viaducts represent the ideal solution for helping train-related disruptions. However, the financial implications and potential displacement of businesses along the construction route make this option less feasible. 

As Bulkley explained, "The perfect solution is a viaduct, but it's not the easiest solution, and it's not the least expensive solution at all." In their latest meeting, the Columbus City Council approved an initial study in collaboration with Union Pacific to assess the feasibility and costs associated with constructing quiet zones. The mayor plans to announce the date of the next meeting on the city's website, inviting public input on the next steps in this ongoing process.