Michigan Compiled Laws, Chapter 474. State Transportation § 474.56

Sec. 6. (1) The department, as sole agent for the state, may acquire by purchase or through the procedures set forth in the staggers rail act of 1980, Public Law 96-448, 94 Stat. 1895, 1 and the northeast rail service act of 1981, subtitle E title XI, Public Law 97-35, 95 Stat. 643, a portion or portions of the property of a railroad company, including, but not limited to, the tracks and ties, rights of way, land, buildings, appurtenances, other facilities, rolling stock, and equipment, whether or not necessary for the operation of a railroad, for the preservation of a railroad line, or for commuter trail use. In addition, the department may acquire by purchase or otherwise other property owned by an entity other than a railroad company which is found by the department to be necessary for the present or future operation of a railroad.

(2) The department may acquire through condemnation only those segments of a railroad which has been abandoned. Acquisition through condemnation shall be limited to right of way, track, ties, bridges, and culverts which are necessary for the operation of a railroad. The action shall be undertaken pursuant to Act No. 149 of the Public Acts of 1911, being sections 213.21 to 213.25 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, and Act No. 87 of the Public Acts of 1980, being sections 213.51 to 213.77 of the Michigan Compiled Laws.