FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The City of Flagstaff says an operational issue involving the wayside horn systems at the Fanning Drive and Steves Boulevard railroad crossings has led to trains sounding their locomotive horns over the past several days.
According to the City, BNSF Railway has determined that the wayside horns at both crossings are functioning properly. However, the signals that notify approaching train crews that the wayside system is operational are malfunctioning.
The issue has been attributed to an accumulation of frozen snow on system sensors. When the sensors are obstructed, federal regulations require train engineers to sound the locomotive horn as they approach the crossings.
City officials say the issue resolves once the snow melts and the sensors are cleared. After conditions improve, the City notifies BNSF, which then informs train operators they may resume normal operations without sounding their locomotive horns.
Residents should be aware that similar issues could occur during future winter weather events. The City and BNSF say they will continue working together to address the problem as quickly as possible if it reoccurs.
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