Fort Collins quest for railroad quiet zone stalls as lobbying effort derails

Image Credit: City of Fort Collins

The City of Fort Collins is postponing their federal lobbying effort to establish a railroad quiet zone in downtown Fort Collins.

Earlier this year the City had appropriated about $50,000 to hire Squire Patton Boggs (SPB) to lobby for a rider in federal legislation to allow a quiet zone along Mason Street. However, SPB declined the contract due to conflict of interest with another client.

Quiet zones are regulated by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and allow areas with specified safety measures such as gates, lights, and bells, to eliminate train horns within the zone. 

Due to the time needed to secure another lobbying firm and limits with the congressional calendar, city staff are recommending waiting until after the 2020 election to hire a federal lobbyist.

For more information, read the article in the Coloradoan.