During the schematic preparation process, proposed right of way (ROW) lines are established. The required ROW width should accommodate the roadway typical sections based on required design criteria and utilities, both existing and proposed. Consideration should also be given to maintenance access.

Effective coordination with the utility companies can avoid construction delays and change orders. The locations indicated by the various utility companies should be as close to exact as possible during this phase of project development. Initially the exact locations of utilities may not be needed, however once the preferred alignment is chosen and the final geometric schematic is developed, higher level utility investigations should be performed to determine exact existing utility locations.

Once the final ROW lines have been established,

including temporary construction or permanent drainage easement(s),

the designer should coordinate with the District’s ROW Section to verify the proper ROW is acquired and that it is free of encroachments.

Refer to TxDOT’s , , and for additional guidance on ROW and utility tasks.