Chapter 6 - Cross Section Elements

6.10. Right-of-Way Controls

Establishing right-of-way widths that adequately accommodate construction, utilities, drainage, and proper highway maintenance is an important part of the overall design. The border area between the roadway and the right-of-way line should be wide enough to serve several purposes, including provision of a buffer space between pedestrians and vehicular traffic (if applicable), roadway drainage, sidewalk space, horizontal clearance, clear zone (if applicable), and an area for both underground and aboveground utilities. A wide right-of-way width allows construction of gentle slopes and also allows for utility poles to be offset further from the road, which in turn results in greater safety for motorists as well as easier and more economical maintenance of the right-of-way.