R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-6-6
No railroad corporation shall enter upon or use the land or materials located for the use of its railroad, except for the purpose of making surveys, until the corporation shall have given such security for the payment of all damages as shall be finally awarded for the land or materials, and for costs, as shall be required by the commissioners appointed to estimate damages; nor shall the corporation enter upon or use the land or materials unless, before the assessment by the commissioners, notice that security will be given on request in writing to the commissioners shall be served on all known persons interested in the land and materials, and residing within this state, by delivering to them or by leaving at their last and usual places of abode a written statement as provided in this section.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-6-6