California Code, Streets and Highways Code - SHC § 2548

In the name of the people of the State of California or, upon authorization from a city, county, or transit district, in the name of such city, county, or transit district, the department may condemn for public transportation purposes, under the provisions of the Code of Civil Procedure relating to eminent domain, any right-of-way underlying an abandoned railroad line in fee or any lesser interest found by the department to be necessary.

The Legislature hereby finds and declares that the acquisition of such property is a public necessity and is compatible with the greatest public good and the least private injury.