Editor: Re Trains were there first, Record letters, Aug. 2. Sadly, it’s the lame old story “the trains were there first.” This is an issue all over North America, mostly because old industrial areas have changed to residential.
I like the trains and am well aware there is more noise in the summer with the windows open, but we have tried working with the railways to reduce “excess” noise, especially at night.
Most cities have noise bylaws, but transportation is federal. The Canadian Transportation Agency does monitor the noise levels. I have no problem with idling for 10, 15 minutes, but an hour at night is excessive and even the railway knows it is polluting and wasting fuel. So I made my first complaint.
Most newer train engines have “smart start,” which means they automatically shut off after a short period of time, a benefit to all.
Maureen Albanese, New Westminster
