West Penn Township is hoping to silence loud engine brakes on some roads in the township.

During Monday’s meeting, supervisors said they’d like to stop the use of what are commonly known as “Jake brakes” on Dairy Road, Pine Hill Road and State Route 309.

In order to do so, the township get the OK from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

“You need permission from the state - even on the local roads,” said Supervisor Jim Akins.

The board motioned to request that PennDOT study the roads to determine whether Jake brakes can be prohibited.

If they are, the township will be responsible for placing signs to alert motorists of the ban.

The township had discussed the issue about a year ago.

Several residents said they often hear the brakes.

“Let me tell you, (Route) 309 and jake brakes? It’s been awful,” Valerie Coombe said.