Be aware of fake MDOT texts demanding toll or traffic ticket payments. MDOT does not operate any toll roads. Contact the Michigan Attorney General for information on how to identify scams and file a complaint.
State-owned rail
State-owned rail
MDOT manages 665 miles of state-owned rail lines. These five lines are operated under contract by five freight railroads. Intercity passenger rail service is also provided by Amtrak on a 135-mile state-owned line between Kalamazoo and Dearborn.
A permit must be obtained to access any state-owned property. Additional agreements may be necessary for long-term use. Permission must be obtained from MDOT for the placement of utilities or other facilities on any of the state-owned corridors. MDOT also provides temporary access and construction permits for its corridors, except Kalamazoo-Dearborn. As the state's accelerated rail corridor, temporary access and construction on that corridor is managed by Amtrak.
Rail standards, specifications and resources
2025 Typical Plans (applies to all lines except Dearborn-Kalamazoo)
2021 Typical Plans (applies to all lines except Dearborn-Kalamazoo (archived))
2015 Railroad Specifications (applies to all lines except Dearborn-Kalamazoo)
Contractor pre-qualification (required for MDOT bid projects)
Other MDOT Real Estate permits
Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act: Snowmobiles on railroad right of way