Acquisition, Uses, & Funding Options for Abandoned Rail Corridors

Project Description

The use of existing and abandoned railroad rights of way has been a proven method of acquiring linear corridors for the construction of roadways since the formation of the Texas Highway Department. The long period of railroad system consolidation since the end of World War II has resulted in the loss of many abandoned rail corridors that could now be extremely valuable if put to use either as new transportation corridors or multiuse recreational trails. This project will evaluate the current Texas Administrative Code statutes governing Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) acquisition and use of abandoned rail corridors and look at potential funding options for purchase and preservation of these corridors by TxDOT or other public agencies. Public-private partnerships to preserve the corridors for future transportation purposes and their interim or permanent use as recreational trails will also be explored. Researchers will also identify potential uses of existing abandonment corridors and suggest changes to existing statutes.

Project Publications

Abandoned Rail Corridors in Texas: A Policy and Infrastructure Evaluation 0-6268-1

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