Construction specification framework for utility installations

Utility accommodation policies nationwide contain requirements for the accommodation, location, installation, relocation, and maintenance of utility facilities on the state right-of-way. The policies normally cover basic requirements, making it necessary to use additional specifications and special provisions to handle situations not covered by the policies. Frequently, because of the lack of standard utility installation construction specifications at transportation agencies, many different versions of special specifications and special provisions exist. Closely related to the need to standardize construction specifications for utility installations is the need to standardize methodologies and procedures for determining the cost of utility relocation. This lack of standardization translates into difficulties such as how to verify the validity of the cost data submitted for reimbursement and how to prepare adequately for audits and other internal and external inquiries. This paper summarizes the work completed to develop a prototype framework of construction specification requirements for utility installations, with a focus on water, sanitary sewer, and communication specifications. The specification framework includes five groups of specifications: earth work, pipes and boxes, appurtenances, other, and general (including specifications such as mobilization and traffic control, which highway construction contracts typically include but are also relevant to the utility relocation process). The framework uses tables that summarize the main characteristics of proposed new and modified standard specifications and includes a listing of pay items, subsidiary items, and corresponding measurement units. The framework also includes specification requirements.