U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) will modernize train noise emissions standards, clearing the way for high-speed rail in the United States.

Currently, existing train noise standards focus strictly on engine and mechanical sounds, overlooking the wind noise generated at speeds above 160 mph.

The FRA’s modernized framework includes an alternative standard for high-speed trains operating between 160 and 220 mph and an approval pathway for speeds exceeding 220 mph (such as Maglev). The new guidance also removes outdated requirements for operators that eliminate costly, unnecessary equipment modifications for today’s trainsets.

“One of the reasons we don’t have true high speed rail in the United States is because current rules disadvantage trains that generate most of their noise from sources other than their engines and rolling stock instead of approaching the issue holistically. Updating this rule will remove a major obstacle railroads currently face when trying to operate high speed trains,” said FRA Administrator David Fink.

Traditional noise limits remain in place for speeds up to 160 mph.

The FRA expects this reform will save high-speed rail developers $100 million over the next 30 years.

-via Press Release