Burying Overhead Utilities

[HornBred]

Obviously not considering doing this by myself but I was wondering whose neck I have to step on to make it happen. For context, the utilities would need to be sunk along a 1/4-mile stretch of residential neighborhood in Colleyville.

 

[Mr. Football]

Anyone remember that 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' episode when Larry got sick of looking at the power lines in his backyard?

 

[MilkmanDan]

I'm curious - is the 1/4 mile just the part you can see, or is that the only portion that's above ground.

 

[HornBred]

All utilities in the neighborhood are above ground on poles. Nothing is buried.

Look up Jim Mitchell Dr on a Colleyville map and you'll see that it does a 1/4 mile long U off of Glade Rd. The utilities of which I speak run dead-center through the middle of the U along the back of the lots on either side. These things are unsightly and pose limitations to future development on the land.

It sounds like this is some sort of nightmare political struggle that requires approval from neighbors, the utility companies, and the city. How does one go about getting this process started?

 

[HKemhorns]

It's a reach, but you would need to find out who the area consultant is for your power company and talk to them about it. I am a developer of new communities and do this regularly. I have to pay the difference in cost to bury the lines, so I'm sure they would want you to foot the bill. Maybe you could get your HOA involved. The cable and phone companies bury their lines here, so I don't have to deal with that, but it would probably be the same deal. Those companies usually have area engineers or service reps., as well.

From what you describe, you may be talking six figures to change.

 

[HornBred]

Thanks for the responses everyone. This has been helpful.