Are trains noisy?

This entry is in response to a comment I received from Delores. She asked whether "some trains are more noisy than others" since "they are in the outside world." Though I am not a train expert nor a train engineer, the answer to Delores's question is actually more complicated than a simple yes or no: it depends. We can think of a train on tracks as a car on the road. The "noise" or roughness of the train ride depends on the kind of car, the road, and, of course, the driver. In the same manner, how smooth a train runs depends on the engineer, the rails, and the cars themselves (how old they are, how well-maintained, etc). Unfortunately for train lovers, Amtrak operates cars from the 1970s (a conductor even told me some cars are remodeled from 1920s train cars!). No matter how remodeled, therefore, these cars will manifest some of the usual wear and tear that comes with age.

In addition, Amtrak has had a long history of government neglect. As a matter of fact, the Bush Administration virtually suffocated Amtrak, and often threatened to kill this mode of transportation system. With Obama and Biden, Amtrak has seen a few friends on Capitol Hill: the recent stimulus package allocates eight billion dollars for train transportation in the United States. Why is this significant? With more money, Amtrak can buy better and updated cars, fix and update the rails, and provide an overall improved service for passengers. In the meantime, the older rails and older trains might continue making squeaking sounds when the locomotive curves or goes at faster speeds. Although one might think such noises to be a huge disturbance, however, one quickly learns to ignore them, and pass them as part of the background and ambiance.

Delores, I hope this answers your question. If it doesn't, please ask away, and I will do my best to respond.