High-Speed Train Noise Emission Standards

What it does

This NPRM seeks to amend the noise emission regulations to address the unique noise emission characteristics of trains operating at speeds exceeding 160 miles per hour (mph). Specifically, the proposed regulation would provide an alternative standard for noise emissions from train operations exceeding 160 mph, up to 220 mph, and also provide a special approval process for noise emissions from train operations exceeding 220 mph. This alternative noise emission standard and compliance process would effectively remove an existing regulatory barrier to the railroad industry for high-speed rail operations, while continuing to protect public health and welfare. Existing noise emission limits for all train operations at speeds up to 160 mph would continue to apply, and these existing limits would remain available for demonstrating compliance at higher speeds as well.

The Federal Railroad Administration's summary, as published in the Federal Register.

What it would change

1 part of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations:

49 CFR 210

Before this

No earlier Federal Register document under regulation identifier 2130-AC83 since Jan. 1, 2025.

What happens next and when

Comments on the proposed rule must be received by October 2, 2026. Comments received after that date will be considered to the extent practicable.

The agency's dates, word for word.

Check it yourself

• The document in the Federal Register
• Docket FRA-2025-0786 on Regulations.gov
• Title 49 on eCFR

The record as published

Source: the Federal Register (public domain). The document in the Federal Register