Trains don’t whistle in Washougal. A few years ago all the grade crossings in town were upgraded so that the area could be declared a whistle free zone. Each crossing has a warning sign to let motorists know not to expect a whistle in addition to a center divider which prevent traffic from going around the gates. Pretty normal quiet zone treatment.
Washougal has 5 of these crossings. As I traveled over them today I wondered why they still need 5 grade crossings especially considering there is an overpass north of downtown. A couple of the minor crossing were on what looked like little used city streets. I’m betting they could give up 2 or 3 and still have plenty of capacity to get travelers across town. In fact I’m surprised that BNSF didn’t have them close a couple during the project.
For now though it appears all 5 crossing are working as the three trains I saw passed through town relatively quietly. I’m sure all the local residents appreciate this.
