Increased complaints regarding louder, longer and more frequent overnight train whistles have prompted City of White Rock officials to once again ask railway officials to ensure conductors are adhering to BNSF’s no-blow policy.
City manager Peggy Clark confirmed Tuesday that she emailed BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas about the issue “a few days ago,” but hasn’t heard back.
The city has received “four or five” complaints about the train whistles in the past two months, Clark said.
“People comment on it seems to be louder,” she said. “I’ve written BNSF and asked them about it.”
Clark said the railway is generally receptive to such concerns, but are steadfast when it comes to safety issues.
“They try and honour the (8 p.m. to 6 a.m.) quiet zone, but if they feel in any way that there is a safety issue, they’re going to blow it,” she said. “The railway has always said safety comes first.”
BNSF spokesman Gus Melonas told Peace Arch News last month that train whistles are a necessary safety factor. They’re the train’s main warning device and they’re meant to be heard, Melonas said.