‘Quiet Zones’ in Five Points area to be established in July

The City of El Paso’s Capital Improvement Department announced Tuesday the Five Points Quiet Zone in Central El Paso will be established by mid-July.

The joint project by the Union Pacific Railroad and the City of El Paso will include modifications to six railroad crossings, allowing trains to pass more quietly through the central El Paso neighborhood.

Crossings located at Maple Street, Birch Street, Cedar Street and Elm Street were closed permanently, while those at Piedras Street and Rosewood Street remain open and were upgraded with new medians and crossing arms.

Train conductors will still be allowed to use their train horns when hazardous conditions are present, as federal rules and regulations require.

The $2.4 million dollar plan is funded by 2013 Street Infrastructure Certificates of Obligation, El Paso Water Utilities, and Union Pacific Railroad.

Officials say the Quite Zone will improve the quality of life for businesses, residents, and visitors in El Paso.