After a long day working 9-5, there's nothing worse than squeezing into a crowded train next to a Chatty Kathy.
But fear not, brave commuter: GO Transit's trial of 'quiet zone' sections was so successful that the company is making the program permanent.
First tested in Barrie in February, the quiet zones were adopted for the upper level of all rush-hour trains in July.
Now, GO Transit says the upper levels will permanently be considered quiet zones on all trains arriving or departing from Union Station before 9:30 a.m. and all trains leaving from or arriving at Union Station between 3:00 and 7:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Though announcements will still be made and brief conversations are permitted, GO Transit describes sitting in the silent sections as 'a chance to relax, catch up on sleep or work, read a book or have some time to yourself.'
The program is passenger- and peer-enforced, meaning customer service agents will not be patrolling the zones.
Here's what you need to knowabout the quiet zones:
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Short, quiet conversations are allowed
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Electronics (including cellphones, tablets and laptops) should be muted
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Headphone volume should be low
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The guidelines apply once passengers are on the stairs
- If someone is making noise, passengers should ask them to reduce the volume, or move to another coach. Do not press the passenger assistance alarm.
