This type of electric rail network bridges the gap between local streetcars and long-distance steam or diesel railroads. Built to run heavier, faster electric cars on dedicated right-of-ways through rural areas, they historically provided frequent passenger service between regional hubs. Most systems relied on overhead wire for power and handled light freight alongside commuter traffic.
The old right-of-way out by the county line used to be an interurban route before they pulled up the tracks.
Related terms
Commuter rail
A passenger train service connecting a city center with its surrounding suburbs.
Light rail
An urban electric passenger railway operating single cars or short trains, often sharing street space.
Heavy rail
A transit system or conventional railroad operating on fully separated right-of-ways with high passenger capacity.