An Analysis of the Direct and Indirect Costs of Utility and Right-of-Way Conflicts on Construction Roadway Projects

Utility conflicts are unfortunately a common occurrence on many roadway projects. This report examines the frequency and severity of utility conflicts both within and outside of Kentucky. Understanding which type of utility conflicts most likely occur and the potential magnitude of their costs when will help the Cabinet better understand the risk of utility conflicts on future projects. The report details a series of five case studies that quantified the direct and indirect costs of utility conflicts on previous projects. The report also reports on the result a national survey of 45 state utility directors (out of a possible of 50) throughout the U.S. regarding their perception on the frequency and severity of utility conflicts within their state. The survey analyses also examined the impact of state best practices on the perceived frequency and severity of utility conflicts. Finally, the report outlines a comprehensive road map for the Cabinet in order to avoid utility conflicts on future roadway projects