Section 6: Utility Adjustments
Anchor: #i1008148Rights of Utilities
Public utilities have a statutory right to occupy highway and road rights of way. But, these rights are subordinate to those of the public. Utilities located in a road right of way frequently need to be relocated to allow for construction of a transportation project. The right of way agreement specifies which party is responsible for utility relocation.
Anchor: #i1008161Procedure
Utility relocation is often a lengthy process. It is part of the right of way acquisition process and is critical to clearing property for construction. Utility conflicts should be identified early in the acquisition process and addressed as soon as possible.
See the ROW Utilities Manual for an in-depth treatment of utility adjustments.