Rail Preservation and Economic Development Activities of Local Rail Planning Districts in Texas

This paper looks at the history, role, and current status of Texas Rural Rail Transportation Districts (RRTDs) in preserving rail infrastructure and supporting rail-based economic development projects. RRTDs are subdivisions of Texas state government, created at the county level, that have the authority to purchase, operate, and/or build new railroad and intermodal facilities; the right of eminent domain; and the ability to issue bonds based upon projected revenues that may be generated by the rail improvements. RRTDs do not have taxing authority, however, and lack of a dedicated funding source has prevented many RRTDs from being successful in either preventing rail abandonment or implementing proposed rail projects. A few RRTDs have had limited success in preserving rail infrastructure long enough for significant market changes to increase potential rail business allowing for continued rail service. Additionally, RRTDs are seen by some local economic development entities as a vehicle they can use to enhance their local development efforts. The paper discusses changes in structure and purpose in the formation of RRTDs, the current number and status of RRTDs in the state, various types of activities underway at RRTDs statewide, and the changing role that local/regional rail activities at RRTDs might take with the recent increased emphasis on state-level rail planning. While many states do not have local rail planning districts, local- and state-level transportation planners should be aware of the Texas RRTD program that has been in place since 1981.