Mainline tracks: Typically higher speed tracks, these represent the majority of track miles. These tracks are used for long distance shipping. Multiple mainline tracks

may be

adjacent to one another.

Passing/siding tracks: Located adjacent to a mainline track, these tracks are used to store trains waiting for a train traveling the opposite direction to pass or faster trains to overtake them.

Wye track: A curved track which connects two perpendicular tracks.

Spur track: A short section of track which typically branches off a mainline track to an industry customer.

Permitted track (formerly called a spur track)

: Railroad spur installed by

crossing

permit from TxDOT where the railroad company is responsible for the majority of construction and maintenance of the crossing.

Switching track: Used for switching rail cars.

Switch or turnout: Used to control movement of train at location of two divergent tracks. Can be mechanical or electrical.

Diamond

(also known as an interlock)

: The at-grade crossing of two separate railroad tracks. Controlled by an interlock switch.

Control point: Location used to manage train movements and are typically on each side of a siding.

Rail yard: Locations of multiple adjacent tracks used for storing and switching of cars.

Wayside signals: Railroad signals used to control train movements. These can include powered switches, train abnormality detectors and actual train movement signals. This also includes any buried or overhead communication lines.

Railroad highway grade crossing signals: Train or railroad personnel activated signals that warn a motorist of an approaching train.