Respect the quiet zone

The East Second Street project looks beautiful. The sidewalks, curbing and conservative tree removal enhance the neighborhood.

It is equally important to recognize the efforts of city public works director John Wilson, his staff and other residents for spearheading and maintaining the railroad quiet zone on a section of this project.

In my opinion, Whitefish residents wish to maintain a good relationship with BNSF Railway. Our resort taxes were allocated to the Second Street project. Kudos! It remains in question, however, why some BNSF engineers continue to frequently ignore the quiet zone status and sound their engine horns three to four times while stationary in the depot 24 hours a day.

I feel that the entire Whitefish community would appreciate respectful cooperation maintaining the quiet zone resulting in less general noise pollution. With ever increasing train traffic (more and longer trains with additional engine power) BNSF officials and employees need to respect our peaceful community and abide by the community’s decision to have the quiet zone. Ultimately, this creates a better community for all of us to live in.

— Lou Penzi, Whitefish