Right-of-Way Management

TRA performed a right of way analysis for the New York State Thruway Authority along the Berkshire Spur and Saugerties Lines by reviewing both aerial and bird’s eye maps of the line in segments, as well as the boundaries of existing NYSTA permit locations. As a result of the review, TRA identified 18 potential encroachments on NYSTA property.

As the Boston Water & Sewer Commission’s (BWSC) real estate consultant, TRA was instrumental in advancing the sales opportunities with the Stonybrook Conduit, a 30-foot wide right-of-way running through most neighborhoods in Boston. TRA’s responsibilities included serving as owner’s representation/liaison and overall project management.

As a means of mitigating the expanding BWSC maintenance budget and legitimizing significant encroachment issues, TRA contacted abutters along the right-of-way and encouraged them to purchase the portions of the right-of-way at a set price while maintaining a permanent easement for the conduit pipe, which remains within the right-of-way.

This project defines maintenance responsibilities and land uses that have been confusing to abutting property owners for years. In addition to reducing long-term maintenance costs, BWSC generates income from the sales. The properties are placed on the tax roles, benefiting the City of Boston. This is a strong model for other utilities, which, if planned properly, can generate neighborhood support as well as additional revenue and reduced long-term expenses. These sales also solve long-term encroachment issues that typically exist along old utility right-of-ways.