Abstract

Paper
Using Cadastral Maps to Accommodate High-Speed Rail Systems in Texas
Track: Education
Authors: Jennifer Kennedy

With the ever increasing population and transportation of goods in Texas in recent years, high-speed rail service has gained interest. Even with the available funding, the problem lies in examining how the new infrastructure can be accommodated. High-speed rail requires a dedicated infrastructure separated from other modes of transportation. Acquiring rights-of-way for any transportation facility are often met with opposition and delays. This study presents the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and other transportation planners with an overview of the opportunities that exist to accommodate high-speed passenger rail service or innovative freight systems into existing public rights-of-way. Existing public rights-of-way minimize environmental and community impact as well as accelerate the construction of the high-speed rail system. A geographic information system (GIS) design and analysis is proposed to examine the high-speed rail network limitations through existing public rights-of-way. Implementation of topographic and cadastral maps and TxDOT design standards will be applied. Transportation planners around the state can use this study to approach significant problems and challenges in planning a high-speed rail system. The study is also important for examining the impact of high-speed rail to the general public and property owners along existing highway rights-of-way.