Quiet Zone issue reaches council agenda

An extensive study exploring what it takes to silence those blaring train horns is finally ready for the Hanford City Council to review.

Today, a city-hired consultant is expected to present a "Quiet Zone"' feasibility study report during a study session of the Hanford City Council meeting.

Hanford has 13 crossings close together within city limits, making the noise nuisance concentrated in a populated area. Over the past year, the city has been exploring the possibility of creating "quiet zones" along the Northern Santa Fe Railway corridor in town under a federal law that took effect in 2005.

Nearly six months ago, the city council hired R.L. Banks & Associates to prepare a study. The report will show how much it would cost to create a quiet zone and what options Hanford may consider.

Based on the study results, the City Council is expected to decide whether to seek a federal process to create a quiet zone.

In other business, the city council will:

l review an update on the high speed rail project in California;

l consider authorizing the purchase of a $726,350 centrifuge system for the wastewater treatment plant;

l consider authorizing a $47,000 expenditure on skate park improvements; and

l accept a donation from Valley Toyota to the fire department for purchase of an estimated $1,000 piece of equipment.

The Hanford City Council meets for a study session at 4 p.m. and reconvenes for a regular session at 7:30 p.m. every first and third Tuesday in the Council Chambers, Civic Auditorium, 400 N. Douty St.

The reporter can be reached at 583-2429.

(May 6, 2007)