Texas High Speed Rail Authority: Insights from Barron Adler Attorney Nicholas Laurent
As Texas lawmakers debate the formation of a Texas High Speed Rail Authority, concerns about how the growing rail infrastructure will impact landowners are at the forefront of discussion.
If established, the Texas High Speed Rail Authority will have unprecedented eminent domain powers to enable the expansion of a variety of transportation routes, including a high-speed rail line connecting Dallas and Houston. These eminent domain powers would facilitate quicker land acquisitions for commuter and freight transportation.
Texas Central, a private company that is leading the charge for the Dallas to Houston bullet train initiative, argues that without more rail transportation, road congestion will become worse than it is now, leading to increased traffic issues. The company says the proposed bullet train would cut the travel time between Dallas and Houston to 90 minutes and take up to 15,000 vehicles off the I-45 and other roads connecting the two cities. However, it may also cause the takings of many properties along the planned path.
The Supreme Court ruled in 2022 that Texas Central had eminent domain authority to take land from a private property owner in Leon County, as the land was located within the proposed route for the high-speed rail project. This is just one example of a series of land takings that could occur if the Texas Rail Authority entity is formed.
Attorney Nicholas Laurent of Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC provides insights on what landowners could expect if their property is affected by this potential entity.

Map courtesy of The Texas Tribune
Q: How would the Texas High Speed Rail Authority be created, and what is the timeline for that process?
NL: The Legislature could create a rail authority during the next Legislative session, which will begin in January 2025. If created, the authority could be active as soon as the Legislative session ends.
Q: What can landowners do if they think their property will be impacted by a future rail project?
NL: Landowners can continue monitoring any potential legislation that would create a rail authority or that might impact the proposed bullet train project. Landowners can and should make their opinions on the subject known to their State Representative and State Senator and can also offer testimony at any committee hearings on potential legislation.
Q: How can landowners ensure fair and adequate compensation?
NL: If the Legislature creates a rail authority, it would likely follow the eminent domain procedures in Chapter 21 of the Texas Property Code, similar to those used by TxDOT and other government entities. Landowners facing condemnation should consult an experienced eminent domain attorney to ensure fair compensation.
Q: How much notice would the Texas High Speed Rail Authority need to give landowners if they decide to take their land?
NL: The process to acquire property by condemnation moves relatively slowly. The condemnor must make an initial offer and a final offer before filing a condemnation case. In most instances, the affected landowner would be aware of the impending taking several months before a condemnation case is even filed.
Q: Is there anything landowners can do to challenge the eminent domain rights the Texas High Speed Rail Authority would have?
NL: Landowners facing property condemnation can challenge the necessity or constitutionality of the taking, typically within the condemnation case. In some situations, they may also sue preemptively. Consulting an experienced eminent domain attorney is crucial. At Barron Adler, we understand the significant impact the Texas High Speed Rail Authority may have on property owners statewide. Staying informed and seeking legal support can help protect their most valuable assets.
Past Blogs on the Dallas to Houston Bullet Train: