News from Patrick Flynn

If you live or work in the neighborhoods surrounding Ship Creek (Downtown, north Fairview & Government Hill) you likely heard some louder and longer train horn noise than usual today – I certainly did.  And, since I know a few folks who work at the Alaska Railroad Corporation, I called to find out what was going on.

Turns out it was time for some FRA-mandated testing of locomotive horns.  Since I’ve retired from railroading I do not precisely recall the decibel level locomotives are required to emit when approaching at-grade crossings but, as most anyone can assure you, it’s quite loud.  Given the potential consequences of motorists or pedestrians not recognizing the approach of an oncoming train the FRA is pretty stringent about enforcing the associated rules, hence the testing you may have heard.

Now you know, but feel free to let me know if you have further questions.

Regards,

Patrick