Report Prepared by: Joe Cardoso, P.L.S, City Surveyor
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of Adjustment of Manhole and Valve Covers Agreement with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving an agreement to allow Caltrans to adjust the City of Merced’s utility valves to finish grade during the construction phase of their projects at their expense.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving the Agreement to Adjustment Manhole and Valve Covers with the California Department of Transportation; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommend by Staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by Staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to Staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
California Streets and Highways Code - Section 680.5 and 707.5
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2025-26 Adopted Budget
DISCUSSION
Caltrans approached City Staff regarding the possibility of entering into a Cover Agreement (Attached). This agreement will assist Caltrans to facilitate the planning, design, and construction of their projects by allowing Caltrans to adjust certain City utilities within their right-of-way such as, sewer manholes, storm drain manholes, and other utility valves.
Currently, when Caltrans initiates a project and determines there are City’s utilities in conflict with their highway project, Caltrans will issue a conflict letter to the City that identifies what utilities are in physical conflict with project. The City may or may not be responsible for the cost of performing such adjustments depending upon the liability determination made by Caltrans and as provide by California law, contracts and Caltrans polices. If the City is found responsible for the conflict, the City must commit staff time and funds to hire a contractor to relocate or adjust the utilities in conflict.
This agreement will allow Caltrans to assume the costs to adjust certain utility covers and perform such work required to adjust the manhole and valve covers that are listed in the conflict letter. This is a much more efficient and economical means for Caltrans to keep their project on schedule.
Staff recommends the approval of this Cover Agreement.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
No appropriations of funds is needed.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Agreement for Adjustment of Manhole and Valve Covers