Reflecting on Eminent Domain in Texas in 2024 and What to Expect in 2025

Reflecting on 2024, it’s clear that Texas continues to be at the center of significant discussions around eminent domain. Several landmark cases have brought the subject of condemnation to the forefront of everyday property owners. These cases have illuminated the impact of eminent domain on both individual landowners and larger communities, sparking broader conversations about property rights, public infrastructure, and fair compensation.

The rapid growth and ever-expanding infrastructure projects in Texas are set to continue shaping the landscape of eminent domain law in the years ahead. With new highways, pipelines, and public projects underway, 2025 promises to be another pivotal year for property rights.

To gain insight into what 2024 meant for eminent domain law in Texas, we sat down with expert eminent domain attorney Andrew York with Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC to reflect on the major developments of the year, and to discuss what Texans can expect in the year to come.

What do you see as the biggest win for Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo in 2024?

AY: Barron Adler had a successful appeal to the Texas Supreme Court in Texas Department of Transportation v. Self. In this case, a crew hired by TxDOT removed more than 20 trees from our clients’ property. The State argued that it could not be sued on the Selfs’ inverse-condemnation claim because it did not intend to take the Selfs’ trees, and the intermediate court of appeals agreed. Ultimately, the Texas Supreme Court ruled for the owners on the inverse-condemnation claim. This was a huge win for the firm, and myself, Nicholas Laurent, and Blaire Knox, and we’re very proud of what we accomplished on behalf of our client!

See: Andrew York Presents Arguments to Texas Supreme Court

Barron Adler Attorneys Win Landowner Victory at the Texas Supreme Court

Do you have any predictions for what 2025 will bring for eminent domain in Texas?

AY: 2025 may or may not be the “Year of the Train.” It has been two years since the Texas Supreme Court confirmed that Texas Central Railroad has the power to condemn in connection with its proposed 240-mile Houston-to-Dallas high-speed rail line. Yet, questions remain as to whether the project, now overseen by Amtrak, will find the financial and political support necessary to make the project a reality. Also, the City of Austin’s proposed public transportation project, Project Connect, is progressing toward a final design. However, pending challenges in district court as well as the 2025 Texas Legislative session could present roadblocks for this urban light rail system.

See: Texas Bullet Train Plans Resurface Upon Announcement of Amtrak Partnership

Austin’s Project Connect Continues Despite Legal Setbacks

What eminent domain events are you looking forward to in 2025?

AY: We are looking forward to several of our attorneys getting to attend and/or speak at the  2025 Eminent Domain and Land Valuation Litigation conference hosted by the American Law Institute in San Diego next January. Shortly after that, Barron Adler will be hosting the 24th Annual Texas Eminent Domain SuperConference – Where Progress & Property Rights Converge – in Austin in March 2025. This is our standout event, and we’re excited to welcome our peers and colleagues for another impactful year!

Check out the highlights from the 2024 conference: Thank You for Joining Us at the 23rd Annual Texas Eminent Domain SuperConference

Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo Can Help With Your 2025 Texas Eminent Domain Case

As we move into 2025, the legal landscape surrounding eminent domain in Texas will undoubtedly continue to evolve. For property owners, it’s crucial to stay informed and be prepared. Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC remains committed to advocating for landowners’ rights, ensuring a fair case and adequate compensation.

If you are facing an eminent domain issue for upcoming Texas projects in 2025, our team of attorneys is here to help. We understand the complexities of this area of law and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and interests. Contact us to discuss your case and learn more about how we can assist you in navigating the eminent domain process.