Downtown quiet zone changed?

[GoldFire]

Has something changed recently with the quiet zone through downtown for the trains? I've noticed for at least the last month that virtually every train is blowing their horn non-stop all the way through downtown.

[Mott]

There were a lot of people working on the new OG&E substation, including some BNSF track people. Trains are required to whistle for men and equipment working along right of way. From the new Modern Art Museum parking lot there were some red stop signs (for the trains) protecting this area. Maybe that’s it?

[Anonymous.]

Yea this happens every time there is some type of work on the rail. I think you can tell it is for on-track workers because the horns seem to always be 2 quick bursts.

beep beep...... beep beep...... beep beep......

Super annoying with the slower trains especially.

[Mott]

Yea this happens every time there is some type of work on the rail. I think you can tell it is for on-track workers because the horns seem to always be 2 quick bursts.

beep beep...... beep beep...... beep beep......

Super annoying with the slower trains especially.

It may be annoying, but the rule is for protecting people close to the right of way.
From the BNSF Operating Rulebook....
Sound whistle signal (7) and ring the bell when approaching roadway workers on or near the track, regardless of any whistle prohibition.
Whistle signal #7 is the same as a crossing whistle, two longs, a short, and a long.

Approaching public crossings at grade with the engine in front, start signal at the crossing sign. If no sign, or if movement begins between sign and crossing, start signal soon enough before the crossing to provide warning. Prolong or repeat signal until engine occupies the crossing.
After this initial warning, train will continue to intermittently sound whistle signal 4 (2 shorts) until head end of train has passed the work location.
Use this signal to warn employees when:
Approaching men or equipment on or near the
track, regardless of any whistle prohibitions.
or
View obstructed.

[GoldFire]

Ah okay, I wondered if there might be work going on, but I couldn't see any from my vantage point.