Round Rock implements first phase of railroad quiet zone

Round Rock residents who live along the Union Pacific railroad that runs through town may be noticing a little less noise.

The city’s first railroad quiet zone went into effect July 6, restricting train operators from blowing horns from CR 172 to Burnet Road, according to a press release from the city.

With the absence of horns blowing, additional safety improvements have been made to the five intersections along the railroad’s path through the city, according to the release.

Improvements include four crossing arms at most of the rail crossings, constructed medians that restrict cross access and red flashing crossing lights that trigger sooner.

Operators are still permitted to use their horns in the event of an emergency, the city stated. Another phase of the quiet zone between Burnet and Red Bud Lane is in the works with the expectation of completion by the end of 2021.

Community Impact Newspaper previously reported that the cost of the project is $4.4 million and funded by the city of Round Rock and the Texas Department of Transportation.