Faster Trains Near Curbs: Quieter Zones Get Speed Boost
Published Date: 4/28/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting May 28, 2026, trains can safely allow cars to drive up to 45 mph near special curbs called non-traversable curbs in quiet zones. This change helps drivers go a bit faster without extra train horn noise, making travel smoother and safer. It mainly affects communities with these curbs and could save time and money by reducing unnecessary slowdowns.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Allow 45 mph Near Non‑Traversable Curbs
You can drive up to 45 miles per hour where non‑traversable curbs are present in quiet zones starting May 28, 2026. The rule defines these curbs as at least six inches high and permits highway speeds that do not exceed 45 mph, which the FRA says can reduce slowdowns and horn use in affected communities.
Codifies Five Waivers, Ends Repetitive Waivers
The rule codifies five longstanding FRA waivers and means regulated parties will no longer need to submit periodic, repetitive waiver requests related to the non‑traversable curb definition. FRA states this change will produce cost savings for impacted parties by eliminating those waiver filings, effective May 28, 2026.
FRA Recommends Engineering Controls for 45 mph Curbs
The rule adds a recommendation in appendix A that use of non‑traversable curbs at speeds up to 45 mph should incorporate appropriate engineering controls, such as those recommended by organizations like AASHTO. FRA declined to incorporate AASHTO by reference but explicitly recommends these design elements to support safety where higher speeds are used.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-09791 — Certification of Dispatchers
The Federal Railroad Administration is proposing to cancel the rule that would have required railroad dispatchers to get certified. This affects dispatchers and the rail companies that employ them, potentially saving time and money by avoiding new certification steps. You’ve got until July 14, 2026, to share your thoughts on this change!
2026-09790 — Training, Qualification, and Oversight for Safety-Related Railroad Employees
Starting July 14, 2026, railroad companies must follow clearer and updated rules for training and checking their safety-related workers. This means better training, tougher qualifications, and stronger oversight to keep everyone safer on the rails. The new rules affect all safety-related railroad employees and may require companies to spend more time and money improving their training programs.
2026-09792 — Certification of Signal Employees
The Federal Railroad Administration is proposing to cancel the rule that required signal employees to be certified. This affects railroad signal workers and companies, giving them more time to weigh in by July 14, 2026. No new costs or deadlines will kick in until the decision is final, so everyone can breathe easy for now!
2026-09443 — Notice of Petition for Extension of Waiver of Compliance
Northern Central Railway of York wants to keep using special rules for the glass on their old steam locomotive No. 17, which runs tourist trips. They’re asking to expand where it can operate to include new tracks between Gettysburg and Mount Holly Springs, PA. People have until July 13, 2026, to share their thoughts, and this helps keep fun train rides rolling without costly upgrades.
2026-08310 — Notice of Petition for Amendment to Waiver of Compliance
BNSF Railway wants to extend the time between air brake system tests on certain locomotives from 184 days to even longer. This change affects rail safety rules and could save time and money for BNSF and other railroads using these brake systems. The public can share their thoughts by June 29, 2026, before the Federal Railroad Administration makes a decision.
2026-08311 — Notice of Petition for Extension of Waiver of Compliance
The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad wants to keep using some super old rail cars—like cabooses and a camp car—that are over 50 years old without following certain new safety rules about stenciling and glazing. They’ve asked for more time to keep this special permission, and the public can share their thoughts by June 29, 2026. This helps DGVR keep their vintage trains running smoothly without extra costs or changes for now.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-08257 — Qualification and Certification of Locomotive Engineers
Starting May 28, 2026, locomotive engineers will get simpler, electronic certificates, making life easier and greener. Railroads must now clearly explain why they revoke a certificate and always prove their case in hearings. These changes affect engineers and rail companies, cutting red tape without costing extra, all while keeping trains safe and sound.
Next: 2026-08259 — Miscellaneous Revisions to the Qualification and Certification of Conductors
Starting May 28, 2026, train conductors will get simpler, electronic certificates instead of bulky paper ones. Railroads must now clearly explain why they revoke a conductor’s certification, and they’ll always have to prove their case in hearings. These changes make conductor rules easier to follow without costing extra money or risking safety.