Congested Rights of Way Make Pipeline Construction More Difficult

Between due diligence, permitting, facility negotiations, database administration, survey coordination, document preparation, estimating, and condemnation support, right-of-way acquisition can be a highly complex undertaking.

In recent years, the process has grown even more difficult as areas have become increasingly congested. Companies now have to be more prudent when it comes to route selection, making land acquisition and right-of-way management more important than they have ever been.

With over 3,000 companies operating oil and gas pipelines in the U.S., newly built lines often have to run above, below, or across existing rights of way. Power lines can also complicate matters due to the fact that when built in close proximity with steel pipelines, stray current (induced alternating current) can cause corrosion. Aging pipeline infrastructure also presents a challenge for owners and operators, who are looking to get the most out of their assets, as they are being faced with the critical decision of whether to rehabilitate damaged pipe or replace it completely.

The key to completing a successful pipeline project is to identify any and all potential sources of trouble before construction begins. Capital expenses typically account for the large majority of pipeline costs, and as a result, having access to experienced right-of-way agents who know what to look for can have a significant impact on profitability.

Audubon Companies provides right-of-way services for virtually every kind of linear project. Whether constructing an oil and gas pipeline, electrical transmission line or acquiring sites for compression and pump stations, we put right-of-way experts on the ground to negotiate with landowners and make the project run as smoothly as possible. For more information on Audubon Companies’ integrated pipeline solutions, click here.