TYPE I RAIL WITH TRAIL
Type I rail with trail segments are trails that exist within the railroad right-of-way. This includes trails within the boundaries of the tracks or a fence separating railroad property and neighboring property. Even though the trail exists within the right of way, does not mean that a fence cannot or does not exist between the tracks and the trail.
In the example to the right, Wysor Station area of the Cardinal Greenway in Muncie, the trail exists on an area where tracks once existed, well within the right-of-way.
TYPES OF RAIL WITH TRAIL
Many people have different ideas as to what "Rail with Trail" means to them. However, Indiana Trails has several different types of rail with trail dependent upon the section of trail and its relationship to the railroad tracks. Below are the definitions created by Indiana Trails and examples of such trails.
TYPE I-B RAIL WITH TRAIL
Type I-B rail with trail segments are similar with Type I rail with trail in that the trail exists within the existing right-of-way, however Type I-B rail with trail exists where the tracks are in or alongside a road or street and the right-of-way includes tracks, street, and trail. Unlike Type I rail with trail where the railroad typically owns the right-of-way, in a Type I-B rail with trail, the right-of-way is more often than not owned by the government.
In the example to the right, a poorly maintained sidewalk lines South C Street where a railroad has tracks in the middle of the street.
TYPE II RAIL WITH TRAIL
Type II rail with trail are trail segments that exists immediately outside of the railroad right-of-way. Typically there is a boundary or fence that clearly delineates railroad property from trail property.
In the example to the right, the Fall Creek Greenway runs along the posts erected as a barrier between railroad property and the trail.
TYPE III RAIL WITH TRAIL
Type III rail with trail are trail segments that exists outside of the railroad right-of-way, often times some distance away, however usually within sight of the railroad tracks.
In the example to the right, the Wabash Heritage Trail runs well outside of the fence indicating railroad property - this area allows for trees and other natural boundaries to also form.
TYPE IV RAIL WITH TRAIL
Type IV rail with trail are trail segments that exists outside of the railroad right-of-way, usually out of sight distance, where the tracks serve an industry, yard, sidings, or other features which would not be compatible with a trail. While the trail may veer away from the tracks for a short distance, the trail typically will return on the other side of the diversion.
In the example to the right, the entrance to a trailhead for the Little Turtle Waterway Trail in Logansport can be seen in the foreground. In the distance can be seen a railroad crossing that this trail parallels. Between them is a rail car repair shop. The trail takes the scenic route next to the Wabash River instead of following the rails on the opposite side of the building.
