In surveys conducted, hundreds of our passengers said that they would use the “Quiet Car” if it were implemented. On Tuesday, January 3, 2012, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express will begin the Quiet Car pilot program. The Quiet Car will run for 90 days during which time we'll be surveying riders to see what they think of the experience. If feedback is good, we'll consider permanently implementing it later in the spring.
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express offers Quiet Cars on many corridor trains, providing a peaceful, quiet atmosphere for passengers who want to work or rest without distraction.
Quiet Car Commute Etiquette
- Refrain from cell phone use
- Disable sound feature on mobile devices and laptops
- Conduct conversations in subdued voices
- Maintain low headphone volume to avoid distracting other passengers
Quiet Car Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Quiet Car located on the train?
The Quiet Car will always be the car closest to the locomotive of a designated train. Only certain early morning and evening weekday trains will have the Quiet Car. Look for more information as we get closer to the date.
When will the Quiet Car be running?
Beginning January 3, 2012, the Quiet Car pilot program will run Monday through Friday on northbound trains #504 and #506 and southbound trains #515 and #517. The program is slated to run for 90 days or until March 30, 2012. We'll evaluate how well it went and consider the possibility of expanding it.
What are the rules?
Customers are asked to: refrain from cell phone use; keep pagers, cell phones, laptop and PDA sounds off; and speak quietly. The Rail Runner Express expects Quiet Cars to be largely enforced by peer pressure and conductor intervention when necessary. Conductors will, of course, lift the quiet car restriction in times of disruption or severe overcrowding.
How will I find the Quiet Car?
The Quiet Car will always be the car closest to the locomotive of a designated train. All Quiet Cars will be identified with signage inside the car. Station and on-board announcements will remind customers; and the conductor will be able to direct you.
What happens if the Quiet Car is completely full?
Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. If you plan on sitting in one of these cars, please observe the quiet car guidelines and be respectful of those around you.
What if I get on the Quiet Car without knowing it?
Don’t Worry, Conductors will make on-board announcements and if need be, will politely remind passengers that they are sitting in the Quiet Car. If you prefer not to sit there, simply move to another car.
What If I need to make or receive a call on my phone?
Kindly move to another car if you must make or take an incoming call. If you must leave your cell phone on, switch it to the vibrate function so that its ring won′t disturb others.
What if another rider′s electronic device is too loud?
Please keep in mind, quiet does not mean total silence. A certain amount of tolerance to noise is necessary. If needed, politely remind your seatmate that they are riding in a Quiet Car and ask that they monitor the volume of their music. A Quiet Car is also a peaceful car.
Can I still talk if I whisper?
Yes, but please keep the tone to a whisper and the conversation brief. If you find you need to whisper for the entire ride, it might make more sense to ride in the non-quiet cars.
Can you disable the announcements in the quiet car?
We want to preserve a quiet atmosphere for the comfort of our riders; however, we are required to make occasional onboard verbal station announcements.
In the event of extreme weather or other operational conditions, it may be necessary to suspend the Quiet Car designation for a specific train(s). On-board announcements will be made advising passengers.
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express hopes all passengers will remember to treat their fellow passengers with courtesy and respect, no matter where they are sitting.
Please send your comments or suggestions regarding the New Mexico Rail Runner Express Quiet Car Pilot Program to railrunner@mrcog-nm.gov.
