Evaluating and Incorporating Utility Coordination Practices into the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Project Development Process

Abstract

Utility relocations have been identified as one of the leading causes of delays in transportation projects. Over time, national perceptions about how state transportation agencies (STAs) should work with utility companies (UCs) have changed. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), like other STAs, faces many challenges related to utility work. This paper presents the findings of a research project funded by KYTC, which aimed to evaluate the current KYTC utility coordination process to identify opportunities for improvement and propose a new approach for enhancing the alignment of this process and the highway design process. Researchers crafted this new approach based on the findings of a literature review, an evaluation of the current alignment between the utility coordination and highway design processes, and experiences and lessons learned from other STAs. This approach was developed iteratively in consultation with the project’s Study Advisory Committee. Research findings suggest viewing utility coordination as an opportunity to partner with UCs. In addition, the early identification of potential utility conflicts and minimizing utility-related project risks during the early stages of project development by avoiding, minimizing, and mitigating all utility conflicts when feasible are encouraged. Project findings were used to develop a guidance document to assist the implementation of a new approach and an associated Utility Coordination Training Program. This guidance document includes suggestions for identifying, managing, and mitigating utility-related risks using utility conflict management, provides information on the strategic use of subsurface utility engineering, and offers recommendations for managing consultant-led utility coordination.