What does "right-of-way" refer to in railroading?

In railroading, "right-of-way" specifically refers to the legal right to pass over land for transport purposes. This concept establishes the areas that railroads are authorized to use for their tracks, stations, and maintenance without interference from other landowners or conflicting uses. It encompasses not just the physical tracks but also the land adjacent to them that allows for safe operations and maintenance activities.

Understanding right-of-way is crucial as it defines the legal framework that permits railroads to operate efficiently and without obstruction. Additionally, it plays a critical role in ensuring safety and continuity in rail operations by delineating the areas where trains can travel freely. The other options, while related to railroads in some capacity, do not capture the essence of what "right-of-way" stands for within the context of rail transportation.