What is the primary purpose of railroad right-of-way (ROW) in land use?

The primary purpose of railroad right-of-way (ROW) in land use is to ensure the exclusive use of the land for railway operations. This designation is essential for the safe and efficient functioning of railroads, as it provides a dedicated corridor for trains to operate without interference from other types of land use. Having exclusive control over this land helps in maintaining the integrity of the rail system, minimizes the risk of accidents, and allows for the maintenance and expansion of railway infrastructure as needed.

The other options pertain to different aspects of land use and do not directly relate to the specific function of railroad ROW. For example, while public transportation implementation is a broader function that includes railways, it does not capture the specific exclusivity and operational needs fulfilled by the railroad ROW. Developing commercial properties and residential zoning represent separate land use strategies that may co-exist alongside but do not define the primary function of a railroad ROW.