Rails¶

Interstate 10 and the Energy Corridor¶

Interstate 10, which passes through Katy and the Energy Corridor, remains a crucial transportation route in the Gulf Coast Wasteland. However, portions of it have still suffered significant damage, including collapsed overpasses and debris.
I-10 connects in the West to San Antonio, El Paso, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. It is not uncommon to see caravans and travelers moving along this route, transporting goods and resources between settlements. New California Republic (NCR) caravans sometimes will even travel as far as Houston along this route, which is largely passable most of the way to the West Coast. The occasional caravan from Caesar's Legion will also travel along this route, though they have little business or influence this far east.
I-10 connects in the East to New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Mobile, and eventually Jacksonville.
The Energy Corridor, with its concentration of oil and energy facilities, has a vested interest in maintaining access to Interstate 10. The Barons allocate resources to clear debris and fortify key sections of the highway to ensure the transportation of essential resources.
Katy, as a major settlement along Interstate 10, has also invested in the maintenance and protection of this vital trade route. The settlement has become a hub for trade and transportation, connecting the Energy Corridor to other settlements and facilitating the movement of goods and resources.
It remains one of the safest routes to travel across the Gulf Coast Wasteland, as the Lone Star Republic maintains a strong presence along Interstate 10, especially in the elevated portions that pass through the Downtown Ruins. The Republic's patrols and checkpoints ensure the safety of travelers and caravans moving along the highway.
There is a distinct difference in the condition of Interstate 10 as it passes through the Energy Corridor and Katy. The Barons have invested resources in clearing debris and fortifying key sections of the highway, while the portion east of Downtown, although passable, is still in some disrepair.
Harbor's Rest (formerly Bayton), Beaumont, and Port Arthur are major settlements along Interstate 10 in the east, serving as hubs for trade and transportation.

Interstate 45¶

Interstate 45, which passes through the Downtown Ruins, is a major transportation route in the Gulf Coast Wasteland. However, portions of it have suffered significant damage, including collapsed overpasses and debris.
It connects to Dallas to the North, and Galveston to the South.
Interstate 45 South is a major transportation route that connects the heart of Houston to the coastal city of Galveston. This stretch of the highway is a critical lifeline for both Houston and Galveston, facilitating trade, transportation, and the movement of people between the two cities.
The highway passes through various post-apocalyptic landscapes, including ruined suburbs, overgrown forests, and makeshift settlements. Sections of the road have been repaired and maintained by local factions and settlements, while others remain in disrepair due to radiation, debris, and collapsed structures.
Along this route, travelers encounter the remnants of pre-war society, such as abandoned vehicles, signage, and dilapidated roadside businesses. The highway also offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, a reminder of the region's coastal heritage.
For Galveston Pirates, controlling access to Interstate 45 South is of paramount importance, as it allows them to regulate trade, raid caravans, and maintain dominance over the vital route. Their presence and influence are particularly felt along this stretch, as they seek to extract tribute from passing travelers and maintain their stronghold on Galveston Island.
Clear Lake Refuge, a hidden community of survivors, has established a presence along Interstate 45 South, using their knowledge of the area to navigate the treacherous terrain and provide safe passage for travelers.
Because of the Spaceport's Proximity to I-45, the Lone Star Republic has made a priority to restore and maintain the highway between the Spaceport and Downtown. This stretch of the highway is a critical lifeline for the shuttling of supplies and personnel between the Spaceport and the rest of the Lone Star Republic
Interstate 45 North, leading out of Houston and passing through the Woodlands, presents a mixed landscape of destruction and remnants of the past. Much of the highway is in a state of disrepair, with large sections of it demolished, collapsed, or heavily damaged from the Great War.
In the Woodlands, which once boasted a vibrant and affluent suburban community, portions of I-45 have suffered significant damage. The overpasses and bridges that once spanned the highway have crumbled, leaving behind a maze of debris and obstacles.
As travelers journey further north, they may encounter remnants of pre-war society, including abandoned vehicles, rusted billboards, and the remnants of roadside businesses. Some enterprising settlers have established shantytowns among the ruins, eking out a living from scavenged resources.
Despite the challenges posed by the damaged highway, I-45 North still serves as a navigable route, albeit one that requires caution and resourcefulness. Caravans and travelers must often detour around collapsed sections, facing the dangers of radiation and hostile wildlife.
The Woodlands, with its massive shopping mall and remnants of suburban life, stands as both a potential treasure trove of pre-war goods and a hazardous area due to pockets of radiation and marauding creatures.
As Interstate 45 extends further north from the Woodlands, it reaches the towns of Conroe and Huntsville, each with its own unique post-apocalyptic character.
This stretch of the highway continues to bear the scars of the Great War, with portions of it damaged or demolished. However, it remains a critical transportation route connecting these northern settlements to the remnants of Houston and the Gulf Coast Wasteland.
Conroe, once a smaller suburban town, has seen a resurgence as a hub for agriculture and trade. The residents have repurposed portions of the highway for farming and as a marketplace where they trade surplus crops and goods with travelers and neighboring settlements.
Huntsville, with its rich history, has transformed into a center of knowledge and education in the post-apocalyptic world. Sections of I-45 leading to Huntsville are adorned with makeshift signs directing travelers to a "Wasteland University," where knowledge and skills are shared and preserved.

Interstate 69 (I-69)¶

Connections: I-69 runs northeast from Houston, connecting the city to the Texan cities of Livingston, Cleveland, and beyond. State: Sections of I-69 are damaged or impassable, particularly in the northern regions. However, some portions are used by caravans and travelers. Influence: The towns and settlements along I-69, including Cleveland and Livingston, rely on the highway for trade and transportation. While it has suffered damage, it remains a vital route for connecting the Gulf Coast Wasteland to the north.

State Highway 146¶

Connections: State Highway 146 extends along the Gulf Coast, passing through Baytown and continuing southward to connect with Galveston. State: Parts of State Highway 146 are well-maintained, serving as a primary maritime trade route connecting coastal settlements to Galveston. Influence: This highway is crucial for maritime trade, allowing settlements along the Gulf Coast to transport goods to and from Galveston. It's also an area where the Galveston Pirates exert control, regulating maritime traffic.

State Highway 288¶

Connections: State Highway 288 links Houston to the southern regions, passing through Pearland and connecting to Freeport on the Gulf of Mexico. State: Sections of State Highway 288 are navigable, particularly those closer to Houston and Pearland. Further south, the road may become damaged and overgrown. Influence: Pearland relies on State Highway 288 for trade and transportation. The highway also connects to Freeport, a strategic port town in the region. However, it may be subject to raids and control by factions like the Galveston Pirates.

State Highway 6¶

Connections: State Highway 6 stretches westward from Houston, connecting the city to Sugar Junction, Richmond, and further points west. State: Parts of State Highway 6 have remained accessible for caravans and travelers, while others have suffered from disrepair and damage. Influence: Sugar Land, located along this highway, serves as a trading outpost for the New Liberty Trading Company ( NLTC). The highway facilitates trade between Sugar Land and other settlements, making it a crucial route for the NLTC's operations. At the south, near the intersection of I-45 and SH-6, NLTC maintains a well-protected but small marina at the Bayou Vista, where their protected ships land. Although they do not use warships, the Galveston Pirates usually leave them alone, after a few early, failed attempts to raid their ships. The NLTC has a small but well-armed security force, and they are not afraid to use it.

Interstate 610 (I-610)¶

Route: I-610, commonly referred to as "The Loop," encircles the city of Houston, forming a circular highway loop around the urban center. State: Sections of I-610 may be in varying states of disrepair, with some parts impassable due to damage. However, other segments remain navigable, allowing for travel within and around Houston. Influence: While I-610 itself does not directly connect to many settlements or key resource areas, it serves as a strategic route for navigating Houston and reaching other highways that extend outward to the Gulf Coast Wasteland. Various factions and scavengers may use it as a means of transit and for scavenging within the city.

Beltway 8 (Sam Houston Tollway)¶

Route: Beltway 8, also known as the Sam Houston Tollway, is a larger loop encircling Houston, including parts of Harris County. It connects to I-610 in multiple places and provides a peripheral route around the city. State: Similar to I-610, Beltway 8 features sections that are damaged or overgrown, while others remain in use. Some travelers are willing to pay tolls or face the challenges of navigating the tollway's conditions. Influence: Beltway 8 is an essential transportation artery for those traveling around or through Houston. It offers access to key areas, including the Energy Corridor and Houston suburbs, making it a crucial route for trade, reconnaissance, and faction movements.

Grand Parkway¶

Route: The Grand Parkway, also known as State Highway 99, forms a large, outer loop around the greater Houston metropolitan area, extending far into the suburbs and surrounding regions. State: Like other highways, portions of the Grand Parkway have suffered damage and disrepair. However, some segments are maintained by local factions or settlements, especially those near valuable resources. Influence: The Grand Parkway serves as a major transportation route connecting various settlements in the outer regions of the Gulf Coast Wasteland. It facilitates trade, communication, and the movement of factions and travelers, contributing to the region's interconnectedness.

High-Speed Rail to Dallas (Out of Service)¶

Before the Great War, a state-of-the-art high-speed rail system connected Houston to Dallas, offering rapid transportation between the two major Texan cities. However, this rail line has fallen into disrepair and is currently out of service. The high-speed rail terminals in both Houston and Dallas are now abandoned, with tracks overgrown and stations serving as makeshift shelters for survivors. The reasons for the rail's disuse may vary, from lack of maintenance to resource scarcity. The remains of the high-speed rail serve as a reminder of the pre-war era's technological achievements and the subsequent decline of infrastructure in the post-apocalyptic world. Travelers and scavengers sometimes venture along the rail for shortcuts or resources.

Freight Rail Lines (Repaired by the Barons)¶

The Oil Barons, with their significant economic influence and interest in resource management, have made efforts to repair and maintain select freight rail lines connecting Houston to other major cities in Texas and beyond. These freight rail lines play a critical role in the Barons' control over the transportation of valuable resources, including oil, minerals, and other goods. They have secured sections of these rail lines, cleared debris, and established fortified rail yards to protect their interests. Freight trains operated by the Barons transport resources to and from Houston, facilitating trade and bolstering their economic dominance. The rail lines also serve as a means of transporting essential goods to other settlements in the Gulf Coast Wasteland. The Barons strictly regulate access to these freight rail lines, and they are heavily guarded to prevent sabotage or interference from rival factions. Travelers and settlers looking to use the freight rail must often negotiate with the Barons for passage.

Stations:

Houston (Hub): Houston serves as the central hub for the Oil Barons' freight rail network. It connects to multiple rail lines heading in various directions.
Galveston (Coastal Port): One of the significant destinations from Houston's rail hub is the coastal town of Galveston. The rail line facilitates the transportation of goods to and from the Galveston port, making it a crucial point for maritime trade.
Harvest Haven (Formerly Conroe): The agricultural settlement of Harvest Haven relies on the freight rail to transport surplus crops and resources to Houston and other trade partners. It contributes to the Gulf Coast Wasteland's food supply.
Sugar Land (Trade Outpost): Sugar Land, a trade outpost maintained by the New Liberty Trading Company (NLTC), connects to the freight rail network, allowing the NLTC to transport goods to and from Houston and its trading partners.
Energy Corridor (Resource Center): The Oil Barons use the freight rail lines to transport valuable resources, including oil and minerals, from the Energy Corridor to Houston. This resource-rich area is a significant source of the Barons' power and wealth.
The Corpse (Corpus Christi): While not part of the main story, The Corpse could be connected to the rail network in a potential downloadable content (DLC) expansion. This connection would facilitate trade and exploration to the south.
San Antonio: The freight rail line connecting Houston to San Antonio is a vital route for transporting goods and resources between the two cities. It also acts as a hub for Baron trade operations west to Phoenix and North to Austin. They aspire to push this line all the way west to It is also a potential route for travelers and caravans moving between the Lone Star Republic and the New California Republic (NCR).
Port Arthur Outpost: The Port Arthur Outpost, a settlement established by survivors who once worked in the shipping and maritime industry, relies on the freight rail to transport goods and resources to Houston and other trade partners.
New Orleans (Future): The Barons are attempting to establish a freight rail line connecting Houston to New Orleans, a major port city beyond the Gulf Coast Wasteland. This line would facilitate trade and transportation between the two cities, making it a valuable asset for the Barons.
Dallas (Future): The Barons are reviving the freight rail line connecting Houston to Dallas, a major city in the Lone Star Republic. This line would facilitate trade and transportation between the two cities, making it a valuable asset for the Barons.

The Barons secure the freight rail lines by establishing fortified rail yards along the routes. These rail yards serve as checkpoints where the Barons can inspect and regulate the flow of goods and resources. They also provide a means of protecting the rail lines from sabotage or interference by rival factions.

Wilderness¶

Sam Houston National Forest: This expansive forest to the north of Houston has become a thriving wilderness teeming with mutated wildlife and untamed vegetation. The forest's dense canopy provides cover for various creatures, making it both a hunting ground and a perilous region for explorers.
The Bayou Swamps: The swampy regions to the south and southeast of Houston are characterized by murky waters, twisted trees, and labyrinthine waterways. The Bayou Swamps are home to unique flora and fauna, including mutated alligators and marsh-dwelling creatures. Navigating these treacherous swamps is a challenge, but they hide valuable resources and secrets.
The Gulf Coast Beaches: Stretching along the coastline, the sandy beaches of the Gulf Coast have been transformed into a desolate and often irradiated wasteland. The shores are scattered with debris, shipwrecks, and remnants of pre-war coastal towns. The beaches hold the potential for scavenging and discoveries from the past.
Piney Woods Wilderness: Found to the northeast of Houston, the Piney Woods Wilderness offers a mix of dense pine forests, rolling hills, and rocky terrain. It's home to various mutated wildlife, including aggressive radstags and feral predators. The area is known for its remote beauty and resources, attracting hunters and adventurers.
Brazos Bend State Park: This former state park, located southwest of Houston, has transformed into a wild and untamed natural sanctuary. The park's marshes, lakes, and dense woodlands are now inhabited by mutated wildlife. The park's visitor center and observatory have become makeshift shelters for survivors.
Bolivar Peninsula: Situated to the east of Galveston, the Bolivar Peninsula is a windswept region with expansive beaches and rolling sand dunes. The area is known for its isolation and the remnants of beachfront properties. It is also a strategic location for trade with the Portside Shantytown.
The Swampy Lowlands: These low-lying areas, scattered throughout the region, consist of flooded plains, overgrown vegetation, and stagnant waters. The Swampy Lowlands are a challenging environment to navigate due to the risk of radiation and mutated creatures. However, they may hide hidden caches of pre-war technology.