N.M. Admin. Code § 17.4.2.16

Current through Register Vol. 36, No. 1, January 14, 2025

Section 17.4.2.16 - CLEAR ROADSIDE POLICY

The Department discourages the installation or relocation of any utility facilities within the designated clear zones of highways in this state. However, if severe space limitation precludes any other viable option, consideration will be given when the public need for utility services and access to properties adjacent to highways or streets is evaluated.

A. Specific installation guidelines: Utilities may be permitted to install facilities within the clear zones of highways in this state if the installation design:

(1) Is approved by the Engineer, District Engineer, District Traffic Engineer, or the Traffic Design Engineer of this Department.

(2) Provides for the installation of the utility facilities, including all supporting appurtenances, below the ground surface of the clear zone area involved.

(3) Provides for the protection of the above ground utility facility by the installation of an intervening barrier or barriers, crash cushions, impact attenuators or longitudinal barriers approved for the use as per the current Roadside Design Guide.

(4) Protects errant vehicles from collision with utility poles, luminaire standards or masts, or any other above ground structures supported by poles, by the incorporation of break-away features in the structure design. Break-away features may include a hinge design, slip plate design, slotted fuse plate design, frangible coupling design and other accepted designs. The utility owner must comply with the design standards set forth in the AASHTO designs and specifications when accepted by the Traffic Design Engineer, or District Traffic Engineer.

B. General requirements: In evaluating whether to allow utilities in the clear zone, utility owners must provide the Department with a complete justification in support of a request to install utilities within the clear zone. This justification must include:

(1) Comprehensive information to support the utilities contention that no other viable location is available.

(2) That an installation on nearby adjacent right-of-way would be prohibitively expensive.

(3) That a right-of-way corridor nearby would adversely affect wetland or agricultural lands or areas of scenic enhancement.

(4) The utility must provide the Department with completed and comprehensive plans and specifications, including:

(a) Grades and elevations tied by survey to the design grade of the highway segment involved.

(b) A clearly defined clear zone, shown on the utility's plans, along with details and elevation views.

(c) Plan, profile and details of underground utility installations.

(d) Any additional information in support of the design.

N.M. Admin. Code § 17.4.2.16

3/10/71, 11/15/96; Recompiled 12/31/01