A new rule going into effect at midnight in Apollo Beach will stop blaring train horns 24/7 at an intersection off US 41.
CSX tells ABC Action News that federal law mandates freight train horns be sounded at crossings to alert the public, except in designated quiet zones.
In order to have a quiet zone, a public agency must request the changes, but updates must be made to adhere to the federal rail administration guidelines.
CSX said in an email that on December 20 the Apollo Beach 24-hour quiet zone will take effect.
“Locomotive engineers maintain the discretion to sound the horn for public safety if a vehicle, person or other obstruction is observed on or near the tracks,” said a spokesperson by email.
Trains are allowed to operate up to 40 miles per hour in the area, and do not have to slow down in quiet zones.
Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners approved the changes last month, and a nearby housing development paid to update the crossing area.
Updates usually include four quadrant gates to stop drivers, median barriers and closing nearby public crossings.
For more information on quiet zones, click here.
CSX said that all pedestrians and motorists should obey all posted warning signs and signals. “Always stop, look and listen for a train.”
