Abstract: A rail fastener is described comprising a rail plate, a rail seat defined in an upper surface of the rail, rigid rail clips for engaging the flanges of the rail, bolts for securing the rail clips to the plate, a resilient pad mounted underneath the rail seat and extending the full width of the rail plate, and apparatus for securing the plate and pad against lateral movement with respect to the support structure while permitting the plate to move vertically. The plate securing apparatus preferably comprises a plurality of holes in the rail plate and pad, a tube within each hole, and a support plate on which the tube rests. Each tube has a hollow center and each support plate has a hole aligned therewith. A fastening element is driven through each tube and hole to secure the tube to the underlying support structure without contacting the rail plate.