Train noise and vibrations is slowly killing you.  Noise can cause harm.  Even if you think you’ve adapted to noise (you say that you barely notice the train rumbling by your home), you’re mistaken.  Studies have been carried out that have demonstrated the potential impact of the noises on our mental and physical health.  It also causes property damage.  

Trains parked and idling emit rumbling sounds.  Constant noise and vibrations not only lower property value, it causes hearing loss, loss of sleep, loss of productivity, distress, neurological disorders, headaches, unusual tiredness, lack of concentration, irritation, pressure on the ear drum, imbalance, disorientation, nausea, digestive disorders, vision problems, and dizziness, cardiovascular disease.  During sleep, the body repairs cells, stores energy, and gets rid of toxic waste.  Noise and vibration disruptions does not let the brain rest. There is a correlation between disease and noise. Lack of sleep is causing our diseases.   

Evergreen Park has increased the number of trains per day and night.  There is also increased number of cars thereby increasing the number of blocked crossing as they enter/exit the yards.  The idling causes lower frequency noise causing excessive noise and vibrations.  The noise and vibrations have been documented in Evergreen Park by a private engineering firm.  Imagine calling your local government officials and receiving no help at all.  There is no concern for the safety and sound tolerance of local communities. 

In 2012, The Village of Evergreen Park signed with CSX Transportation Inc. and entered upon a Mitigation Settlement Agreement.  In that agreement CSXT would (1.34) mitigate train noise to levels as low as 70 dBA. (1.35) CSXT will consider lubricating curves to reduce noise for residents in Evergreen Park, will employ safe and efficient operating procedures: (1.35.1.) Inspecting rail car wheels to maintain wheels in good working order, (1.35.2) inspecting new and existing rail for rough surfaces and grinding these surfaces to provide a smooth rail surface during operations, (1.35.3) Regularly maintaining locomotives, and keeping mufflers in good working order (1.35.4). (1.35) Upon request, consult with Evergreen Park on wheel squeal.  (1.37) Minimize noise and vibration within Evergreen Park, CSXT installs new or rehabilitated rail or rail beds.

CSX Elsdon Subdivision acquired an operating easement over 22 miles of track from Muster, Indiana, into the south Suburbs (Lansing, South Holland, Phoenix, Harvey, Blue Island, Evergreen Park) and into North Chicago.  The transaction would allow CSX to operate non-stop on the Elsdon Subdivision at 40 mph, to measurably reduce train idling time.

To learn more about noise and vibrations visit:  https://www.grownyc.org/noise

To report blocked crossings:  https://railroads.dot.gov/ Report a blocked crossing?

Please join the community to improve railroad train noise, vibrations, and safety.  If you are concerned about your health, safety, and your property value, please sign the petition.