D.C. legislator proposes federal grants to address train noise and vibrations

WASHINGTON — District of Columbia Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton has proposed legislation to create a grant program to construct barriers along rail lines to mitigate impacts from derailments, noise, and vibrations.

“While trains are a critical mode of transportation,” Norton said in a press release, “the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine demonstrated the need for increased safety measures to protect the residents who live near train tracks. Physical barriers, like the kind my bill would provide for, have proven effective in mitigating the harmful effects of both train noise, vibrations, and derailments.”

HR 6064 would appropriate $100 million annually in fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for barrier construction, with states, other governmental bodies, or railroads eligible for grants.

“District of Columbia residents frequently tell me about the negative impact of train noise and vibrations on their lives,” she said in a statement introducing the bill. “Train noise and vibrations can harm health and quality of life and can even harm the structural integrity of homes.”

It is the second bill from Norton on this topic this year, and at least the third of her career. In April, she introduced HR 2569, which requires the Comptroller General to submit a report to Congress on recommendations for reducing train noise and vibrations; that bill remains in committee. In April 2023, she introduced a similar bill, HR 2807, requiring the Department of Transportation to submit its recommendations on the topic; that bill died in committee.

While Norton has proposed the legislation, she will be unable to vote for it if it reaches the floor of the House. The District of Columbia’s House representative is officially a delegate: able to introduce legislation and service on committees, but not able to take part in final votes.