Groundbreaking Eminent Domain Case Filed by Amtrak in Baltimore City
A significant eminent domain case has been initiated by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The filing, dated August 23, 2025, targets a specific parcel of land described as “.027 Acres More or Less of Land on and below a horizontal subterranean plane located below 1705 North Fulton Avenue in Baltimore City, Maryland 21217,” along with other unnamed respondents.
This legal action signifies Amtrak’s intent to acquire this particular subterranean land through the power of eminent domain, a legal principle that allows the government or authorized entities to take private property for public use, provided just compensation is paid to the owner. While the specific public project for which this land is being sought is not detailed in the initial court filing, Amtrak’s mission involves the operation and improvement of passenger rail service across the nation.
The filing, identified by case number 1:25-cv-00316, places this matter squarely within the jurisdiction of the District Court for Maryland, indicating a federal legal proceeding. The inclusion of the phrase “et al” suggests that there may be additional parties or interests involved beyond the primary identified parcel.
Eminent domain proceedings, particularly those involving complex subsurface rights, can be intricate. They often involve detailed surveys, property valuations, and legal negotiations to determine fair market value and ensure the acquisition serves a demonstrable public purpose. The outcome of this case will likely hinge on these legal and technical considerations, as well as any potential objections or counter-arguments presented by the property owner(s).
This development underscores Amtrak’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure development and the enhancement of rail travel. As the case progresses through the court system, further details regarding the intended use of the acquired land and the specifics of the compensation offered are anticipated to emerge. The public will be able to follow the proceedings through the official records maintained by the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland.
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govinfo.gov District CourtDistrict of Maryland published ’25-316 – National Railroad Passenger Corporation v. .0 27 Acres More or Less of Land on and below a horizontal subterranean plane located below 1705 North Fulton Avenue in Baltimore City, Maryland 21217 et al’ at 2025-08-23 00:55. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.