NJ A4609

Requires public utilities and cable television companies to accommodate and relocate their facilities (pipes, conduits, cables, wires, poles, towers, telecommunications equipment) when necessary for Department of Transportation infrastructure projects, following DOT's final project work plan and schedule.

Utility companies must respond to DOT requests for facility verification and location information within 60 days, and acknowledge project work plans within 30 days, or face liability for impact costs caused by delays.

DOT will reimburse utility companies for relocation costs, but utility companies must pay for pre-engineering, field location testing, engineering design and review, and any costs resulting from their own delays.

Utility companies are liable to both DOT and contractors for impact costs if they fail to complete accommodation work on schedule, provide incorrect facility information, or delay project design by not responding timely.

The bill takes effect on the first day of the third month after enactment and applies to projects bid 180 days after the effective date, excluding projects with existing engineering or construction agreements.