Right-of-Way
Vanguard’s team has the experience and versatility to handle right-of-way (“ROW”) acquisition projects of all types. We provide services to municipalities, states, and private companies for:
- Electrical lines
- Pipelines
- Telecommunication lines
- Transportation infrastructure
Vanguard brings an invaluable perspective to each ROW project by leveraging the more than 115 years of combined experience of our three ROW consultants. Vanguard’s General Counsel provides guidance to acquisition consultants regarding compliance with state statutes, regulations, and procedures. Vanguard is well-equipped to address landowners’ questions with respect to eminent domain law. This institutional knowledge, combined with our relationship-based approach, position Vanguard’s acquisition consultants to acquire ROW the right way. Vanguard anticipates branching out beyond acquisition services to provide appraisal services and relocation assistance.
Vanguard staffs ROW acquisition projects of all types and sizes, including electric transmission lines, crude oil, natural gas, and NGL pipelines, as well as electric transmission lines. Our team is there to provide needed services throughout every step of process, including data collection, GIS mapping, negotiation, and procurement. Vanguard’s experienced professionals and land agents ensure that the ROW acquisition process proceeds competently and expeditiously.
Frequently Asked Questions
The federal definition of right of way varies depending on the context. In general, it refers to the legal right, established by usage or grant, to pass along a specific route through grounds or property belonging to another. It can be a physical path or a legal easement. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides guidance on right-of-way acquisition and management for federally funded transportation projects.
Ownership of land next to a road depends on several factors, including the type of road and the location. In some cases, the government (federal, state, or local) may own the land as part of the road right of way. In other cases, private landowners may own the land up to the edge of the road or to a specified property line within the right of way.
Yes, right-of-way laws and regulations can vary from state to state. While the federal government provides guidance for federally funded projects, states have their own laws and procedures regarding right-of-way acquisition, management, and use.
In Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is responsible for managing the state’s right-of-way. TxDOT has its own set of laws and regulations governing right-of-way acquisition, use, and maintenance. These regulations cover topics such as eminent domain, property valuation, relocation assistance, and permitted uses within the right of way.
An easement right-of-way agent in Texas is a professional who specializes in negotiating and acquiring easements on behalf of clients, such as government agencies, utility companies, or private developers. They are familiar with Texas right-of-way laws and regulations and can help clients navigate the complex process of securing easements for various purposes, such as road construction, utility installation, or pipeline projects.
