Editor:
Re: Feds want train-whistle review for White Rock, Sept. 19.
Early Friday morning, at 3 a.m., I was most rudely awakened by the familiar “honking” of the train.
And make no mistake, it is not a whistle; it is a loud horn that will catapult you out of your bed.
I was totally distraught, as I was not able to get back to sleep after that and, like everyone else, I need a good night’s sleep to function well the next day.
I inquired with city hall as to let me know why this laying of the horn was necessary at that hour of the night. I wondered whether it was in any way related to the article that was in Thursday’s paper, where Transport Canada are asking for a review of the overnight hours.
Apparently, in August 1992, train whistling at crossroads was restricted between the hours of 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. I could argue on that one, because if you ask anyone on the hillside they will agree that the “horn” is honked often between those hours, particularly on the weekend. Most times it is just put up with it, particularly on the weekends when you know there might be some young people partying in the park during the late hours.
I understand this review was prompted by the unfortunate death of the young woman who was jogging near the tracks this summer (White Rock jogger killed by train, July 16), however that was at 9:45 p.m. and it was still dusk and visible.
What I and hopefully others will agree is needed is more visual “hazard indicators,” such as flashing red lights at the crosswalks. I think those would draw more attention, taking all the onus on the ability to hear the train horn.
Living on the hillside of White Rock provides a beautiful view, but the downside of it is the coal dust coming from the train, as well as the noise we have to put up with.
The high taxes we pay should give us some input on these issues.
D. Barros, White Rock
