Lacombe County will investigate whether train whistles can be stopped at the CN Rail crossing on Highway 50 in Mirror following a resident’s concerns about noise.

At its regular council meeting Sept. 24, council directed administration to hire a consulting firm to complete a crossing safety assessment and whistle cessation study.

According to the report presented to council, a Mirror resident raised concerns about train whistles sounding throughout the day and overnight. The inquiry prompted administration to contact CN Rail and Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors about the process.

Those discussions confirmed the county could lead an application to pursue whistle cessation at the crossing.

Administration obtained a preliminary estimate of approximately $7,500 for the assessment and study. The work would include data collection, field inspections, a safety review and recommendations.

CN Rail advised administration that a crossing safety assessment is required to determine whether the crossing meets applicable safety requirements and identify improvements that may be needed.

The study will give council information about the project’s feasibility and potential infrastructure requirements. Council’s decision authorizes that investigation, rather than an immediate end to train whistles.

The county report outlines further steps, including public notice, agreement on whether the crossing meets safety requirements and a subsequent council resolution supporting whistle cessation.

Any required crossing improvements and their costs would become clearer through the assessment.