Community Corner

Why Do Trains Sound Their Horns in Westborough?

The latest 'You Ask, Patch Answers' has the information.

Editor's note: In our column "You Ask, Patch Answers," we help you to find answers to your questions. Email westborough@patch.com if you have a question that you would like answered.

Today, we answer this inquiry, posted in our Speak Out section:

"Why as of yesterday is every train sounding its horn as it goes by Westborough. I thought perhaps due to work in close proximity but surely no work was being done at 5am! Any ideas and when it will stop?"

Westborough Patch asked the CSX Corporation.

"Federal regulations and company policy require that train horns be sounded at highway-rail grade crossings and in certain other instances, all related to safety. For instance, if workers or equipment are on a track, a train crews will sound its horn to warn others that it is approaching," spokesman Bob Sullivan said Wednesday.

"In each instance, the sounding of the horn is meant as a safety measure.  Train horns save lives and we urge motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution around railroad tracks."


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here