SRF was retained by the City of Garland to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a quiet zone along two active rail corridors, Kansas City Southern Railway (KCS) and the Dallas, Garland and Northeastern Railroad (DGNO). The study encompassed 31 at-grade crossings and required coordination with multiple stakeholders, including Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), which operates light rail transit (LRT) within the DGNO corridor.
The primary goal was to reduce or eliminate train horn noise in residential and commercial areas, improving quality of life for Garland residents. SRF’s scope of work included evaluating existing crossing conditions, risk levels, and infrastructure needs, while ensuring compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations.
After collaborative discussions with City staff and railroad agencies, the City implemented a quiet zone at 21 KCS crossings. The phased implementation strategy included:
- Using pre-existing improvements at three crossings
- Meeting minimum active warning device requirements at others
- Future enhancements that will expand treatments to a total of 18 upgraded crossings
Most crossing improvements feature full-length or reduced-length medians to meet FRA safety guidelines. Private crossings received sightline and signage upgrades to align with federal standards.
SRF’s services included:
- Facilitating an on-site diagnostic meeting and performing field work
- Leading multi-agency coordination between the City, FRA, and railroad companies
- Developing crossing improvement alternatives and long-term recommendations
- Performing risk index calculations and safety analysis using FRA methodology
- Completing and submitting the formal quiet zone documentation to the FRA
This effort is part of a broader strategy to enhance community livability through thoughtful rail corridor planning.
Resource Links:
City of Garland, Texas
Federal Railroad Administration – Quiet Zones
Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)
Dallas, Garland & Northeastern Railroad (DGNO)
Internal Categories:
Quiet Zones
Community and Transportation Planning
