Oversight and Accountability within the Utility Cut Process

Utility company's infrastructure networks are located either above or below the City's public right of way and when required to perform repairs and/or upgrades to their infrastructure are often need to cut into the roads and/or sidewalks to access their infrastructure. A "utility cut" occurs when it becomes necessary to excavate a portion of public right of way in order to provide access to underground utilities, such as watermains, power lines, and telecommunications infrastructure. Reasons for needing to access above or underground infrastructure can include performing routine maintenance, installing new infrastructure, upgrades, additions, and/or alterations to utility infrastructure. Annually, Transportation Services issues 35,000 cut permits to utility companies. Utility cuts can be disruptive to the public in a number of ways including dust and noise from construction, impacts to sod, and uneven pavements. The improper restoration of utility cuts can also accelerate the deterioration of City roads and sidewalks. Therefore, it is important for the City to manage the utility cut process to protect City infrastructure and to provide good customer service. This report addresses two Council approved members motions and aims to provide an update on the status of utility cut program including recent process improvements, challenges and next steps for the program. The report will also identify the current fees charged to utilities and will provide an update on the status of a staffing and fee update.