Editor, Times-Union: To: Syracuse residents, A year ago, I made my fourth attempt to convince the Syracuse Town Board that Syracuse can be a better place to live if they would take the initiative (that’s required, by the way) to submit a request to the Federal Railroad Association to make our town a quiet zone where railroads blow their horns only when they see imminent danger ahead. South Bend and Mishawaka have one and Elkhart and Goshen are actively involved in establishing one. Last year, the town manager indicated that the meeting I wanted to attend and make my request was also budget night so I was to simply request that they consider it at their next meeting. Instead, when I was recognized, I was quickly told by a board member that he remembered me as the million dollar man and that a quiet zone was too expensive. When I tried to rebut him, I was quickly embarrassed and told to sit down. Then, after talking with another townsperson, the town board president indicated a willingness to work with the group. That was well received; however, nothing has come of it and the issue is, I suspect, a mute issue with the board. Fall’s on the way, which means a lot of people affected by the loud train whistles will be on their way back to their winter homes. If they truly care and want a quieter town, may I strongly urge them to let their board members know. Call them and tell them you at least want more consideration. I also hope that the year-rounders attend the meetings and bring up the matter. Though I’ve been at this for many years, I still believe we can have what hundreds of cities and towns already have: a quiet zone. The major requirements are that the town must have cross arms to block traffic for the trains as well as flashing lights. Syracuse has them at every crossing. Trains will still blow their whistles but only when it’s needed. What do you folks think? Perhaps some of you can take this up with the county officials? Van Young Syracuse, via email
