Alaska2026Passed Legislature

HB142

Rules for Using Railroad Land for Public Walkways and Trails

Last scannedSep 20, 2026, 12:32 AM

In one sentence

This law allows cities and the state to use railroad land for public walkways or trails if a board finds it safe, an agreement is signed with specific protections, and private landowners give written permission.

Requires the Alaska Railroad Corporation's board to find in writing that a proposed walkway or trail will not create safety hazards before allowing it.
Mandates that the state or city sign an agreement agreeing to follow rules set by the railroad corporation to reduce risks.
Requires the state or city to promise to pay for legal costs and judgments if someone sues because of the public use, protecting the railroad from liability.
Allows the railroad corporation to stop a walkway or trail upon request if it blocks train operations, creates danger, or interferes with facility expansion.
Needs written permission from private landowners whose property is crossed by an easement before construction starts.

The law only applies to new uses approved on or after the date this act becomes effective.
The text does not state a specific calendar date for when these rules will start working.

Plain language

Easement: A legal right to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, such as building tracks.
Indemnify: To promise to pay money or cover costs if another person gets sued or loses money because of an action.

Official record

Validated

RAILROAD LAND; CONSENT FOR PUBLIC USE An Act relating to use of railroad land for public purposes.

Official activity