BNSF: New trackside signs

(also cross posted on the BNSF discussion board)

At three points along the Chicago Subdivision I've seen a couple of new trackside signs pop up. Just east of the Berwyn Metra station on both sides of the right of way there's a yellow rectangular sign that reads "F-45" which is the speed limit for freight trains. Both signs are positioned for westbound traffic. And at two points in Downers Grove there are two small white square signs on the same pole where the top sign has "W" (whistle) and directly underneath has "QZ" (Quiet Zone). The BNSF Chicago Subdivision is in a quiet zone between McClure Rd in Aurora and Chicago. These signs are also positioned for westbound traffic. Never seen such signs before.

Are the quiet zones in effect all day, or just during the overnight hours?

All day, unless something has changed... which I would find unlikely. BNSF plans to close McClure Rd. after which, the entire BNSF line will be in a quiet zone.

The closure of McClure Rd and grade seperating Belmont Rd will likely make the entire BNSF Chicago Sub eligible for quiet zone designation.

Edit: An article from the City of Aurora on quiet zones. Looks like McClure goes quiet in 2 days.

http://www.aurora-il.org/detail_news.php?newsDateID=394

Freight train speed limit sign at east end of Berwyn station south platform:


Freight train speed limit sign just east of Oak Park Ave grade crossing:


Whistle/Quiet Zone sign at east end of West Hinsdale station platform looking east. It appears that these signs are positioned in both directions in advance of grade crossings: