Pennsylvania Statutes Title 36 P.S. Highways and Bridges § 2871. Individuals may construct railroads or plank roads

It shall be lawful for any individual, or association of individuals, to construct a railroad or plank road from his or their premises, to connect with any railroad or plank road which may be constructed or to any stream of water which has been or may hereafter be declared a public highway: Provided, Such railroad or plank road shall not exceed three miles in length; and any individual or individuals making any such improvement, shall be subject to all the provisions and restrictions of an act regulating turnpike and plank road companies, approved the twenty-sixth day of January, 1849:  1 And provided further, That this act shall only extend to the counties of Warren, McKean, Elk and Potter.