The State, through the Department of Transportation's Rail Division is responsible for freight and passenger rail planning and operations, as well as for representing railroad customers on service issues.

These responsibilities include:

Crossing safety authority over all public highway-railroad crossings.

Managing 150 miles of state-owned railroad right of way along the Astoria Line and the Oregon Electric Line.

Acting as an agent for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) by inspecting track, railroad equipment and cars, hazardous materials and operating practices.

Regulating clearances between railroad tracks and structures to ensure the safety of railroad employees.

Inspecting tracks, including industrial spurs and sidings for compliance with ODOT regulations.

Responsibility for state safety oversight of transit agencies with rail-fixed guideway systems; including street cars and trolleys operated by other government bodies.