NS to sound train horns in 13 Virginia towns per new FRA rule (6/23/2005)
6/23/2026To comply with the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) train horn rule that takes effect tomorrow, Norfolk Southern Railway trains will begin sounding their horn after midnight tonight when approaching grade crossings in 13 Virginia cities.
The rule requires trains to sound their horns when approaching and moving through public crossings unless a community establishes a quiet zone by meeting certain safety requirements.
In addition, a community with a pre-existing whistle ban can qualify for “grandfather” status to keep the ban in place. A public authority had to file forms with the FRA, railroad and other affected parties by June 3. NS didn’t receive notices from any of the Virginia towns, according to a prepared statement.
Source: Progressive Railroading Daily News