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Resident urges study of railroad quiet zones; staff says study already funded
Summary
Roger Bliss told council that train horns create a half‑mile noise corridor and urged the city to pursue federal 'quiet zone' alternatives; staff said funding for a study is already in Jim Bowling's budget and that eligibility review and railroad engagement will follow.
Roger Bliss told the Kent City Council that routine train horn sequences produce a broad noise corridor through parts of Kent and urged the council to examine the federal 'quiet zone' process to reduce disruptive horn noise while maintaining safety.
"Quiet zones ... demonstrate that safety and quiet living don't have to be in conflict," Bliss said, urging a structured safety review and alternative measures to horn sounding.
Councilmember Tracy moved that staff look into quiet zones. A staff representative said funding and a study requirement already have been programmed in Jim Bowling’s budget and that the study is the first step before assessing eligibility and applying to the railroad. Staff said they would keep Bliss informed and indicated the study findings will be taken to committee when appropriate.
Council did not adopt a formal ordinance at the meeting; instead members accepted staff’s representation that the study is in process and that further committee review will follow.
