The MBTA’s “Quiet Car” program that was tested on the Fitchburg and Franklin lines this spring has been approved yesterday for all 13 Massachusetts commuter rail lines. The program established two cars free of loud cell phone conversation and other forms of rude social interaction. Located directly behind the locomotive, passengers that choose to enjoy the quiet zone are required to follow a certain edict during the high traffic hours (6a.m. – 9am, 4p.m.-7p.m.) If you plan on riding the quiet train, mimes will be handing out guidelines at both North and South Station this evening.

The idea sounds good, but I question its effectiveness between 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. People will do just about anything to get a seat on the train. I once had to stand in between cars from South Station to Kingston on the commuter rail!