Passenger Bus, Rail and Motorcoach Industry News

New York's Long Island Railroad and Metro-North increased the number of quiet spaces this month. Despite the new trend, not all riders are able to separate their hectic work lives from their commute.

Beginning Oct. 3, a passenger car on every weekday Metrolink train will be designated as a quiet car to ensure peace and quiet for passengers that prefer an almost noiseless commute. The second car away from the locomotive on each train set will be designated as the quiet car.

Implemented “quiet zones” on all 13 of its commuter rail lines on Monday. The required quiet time will be imposed during peak commuting hours.

Began testing of the “quiet car” concept on Monday, on the first and last cars on the Rock Island rail line. Rules include: No cell phone calls, conversations must be in subdued voices, and electronic devices must be silenced.

Passengers debate whether any talking at all should be allowed in the cars. One rider requested that the conductor disable the automated announcements and his work radio, saying it created “unnecessary noise.”