What utility line will most likely not be moved for a water utility installing a new water main?

• A. Electric line
• B. Sewer
• C. Gas line
• D. Telephone line

Answer: (B)

Coordinating with existing underground utilities is a key part of laying a new water main. Utilities in conflict with the trench are considered for relocation based on risk, cost, and impact on service. A sanitary sewer line is typically not moved because changing a sewer line involves high risk and complexity: it can create wastewater spills, requires bypass pumping and dewatering, and introduces significant regulatory and health concerns. Keeping the sewer in place and adjusting the water main’s alignment to avoid it is usually the safer, more economical approach. Electric, gas, and telecommunications lines are more commonly relocated because their relocation is often less risky to public health and can be done with outages or rerouting that have manageable impacts.