Introduction

The nearby presence of railroad tracks can be a double-edged sword, offering both benefits and challenges. This article explores the experiences of individuals living near active and decommissioned railroad tracks, detailing vivid memories and current observations.

Living Near Active Railroad Tracks

Many modern railroad tracks play a vital role in the distribution of goods and services. For instance, in the evenings, old railroad tracks in the United States are often used to transport refrigerated produce such as avocados, navel oranges, and lemons to nearby sidings. These sidings then connect with longer trains to be distributed to various parts of the country. This depiction brings to light the ongoing importance of these historic rail corridors in the modern logistics landscape.

Sleeping Near Decommissioned Railroad Tracks

In many regions, abandoned rail lines often serve as prime real estate, providing flat and long corridors that connect small towns. While some old rail lines get purchased by adjacent landowners, many are converted into trails for recreational purposes such as walking and cycling.

I have a property in France that borders the Nice to Italy rail line. One night, on the first Thursday after my arrival, I awoke to a massive shaking, as if an earthquake was happening. It turned out to be a long train loaded with Renault vehicles. It took a few minutes to pass, but it was still enough to scare my guests who were only there for a short visit. After two weeks, my guests and I slowly adapted to the night-time rumbling. However, it always seemed to startle them.

Personal Experiences with Old Railroad Tracks

My personal experience with nearby railroad tracks dates back to my childhood. The railway line no longer in operation ran at the end of our garden. We lived in a typical 1960s semi-detached house with a small back garden. My bedroom was at the back with single-glazed windows, which allowed me to hear and see the trains pass by during the day.

Back then, the trains were either diesel or steam engines, and they were primarily passenger trains, though quite short, typically just four carriages. I usually slept through the passing of trains at night, but sometimes the noise still found its way into my dreams. We resided in this house for four years; however, the train services ceased before we moved. The tracks remained, and I remember using them to reach the home of a family friend when I was seven years old.

Nighttime Traffic and Level Crossings

Apart from trains, I also lived near several railway tracks with significant level crossings. One particular crossing caused consistent delays during peak traffic hours. These crossings, where roads intersect with railway tracks, can pose safety risks and cause inconvenience for drivers and passengers alike. It is worth noting that modern safety measures, such as warning signs, gates, and crossing controls, help mitigate these risks but do not eliminate them entirely.

Conclusion

The presence of railroad tracks, whether active or decommissioned, significantly impacts the daily lives of nearby residents. These historical structures continue to play crucial roles in modern logistics and provide opportunities for recreational activities. Understanding the different perspectives and experiences associated with these tracks can help in better appreciating their multifaceted role in society.