Underground Utilities Placement Guidance

Option 1
Install Utilities in the Roadbed

Advantages

• Reduces construction time
• Land acquisition savings
• Allows compact, walkable streets

Disadvantages

• Repair may cause disruption to transit, cycle lanes, and traffic
• Additional protection may be required due to continuous traffic loading

Diagram showing utilities installed under the roadbed.

Option 2
Install Utilities Adjacent to the Roadbed

Advantages

• Prevents closure of traffic lanes during construction and repair
• Requires less protection due to lower traffic volume
• May reduce need to acquire land for future roadway expansion

Disadvantages

• Greater space requirement
• Loss of pedestrian area during repair and maintenance

Diagram showing utilities installed adjacent to roadbed.

Option 3
Install Utilities Within the Underground Corridor

Advantages

• Ease of access for servicing
• No traffic impact during maintenance
• Lower maintenance costs

Disadvantages

• Significant capital costs required
• Longer construction time
• Compatibility between utilities must be considered
• Flood measures required
• Ventilation shafts required
• Wet utilities should be kept separate from dry utilities

Diagram showing utilities installed in an underground corridor.