Franklin County approves master agreement with Alabama Power for utilities on county right-of-way

Franklin County commissioners on April 20 approved a Master Agreement with Alabama Power Company to govern the installation, operation and relocation of utility facilities on county rights-of-way.

The agreement requires Alabama Power to submit utility permit applications and project drawings for county approval, to complete permitted projects within 12 months unless extended, and to restore county roadways and drainage to the county's reasonable satisfaction on completion. The agreement allows the county to request a performance bond to secure completion of a particular project and establishes that Company will indemnify the County for third-party liability caused by Company's negligent construction, operation or maintenance of facilities on the rights-of-way.

County staff noted the agreement is intended to streamline routine permitting and establish consistent safety, environmental and construction standards when Alabama Power installs or relocates overhead or underground electric or broadband facilities across county roads. Commissioner Greg Hovater moved to approve the master agreement and Commissioner Grayson Murray seconded; the motion carried unanimously.

Why it matters: The agreement sets expectations for permitting, bonding, restoration and relocation when utilities occupy county right-of-way, including processes and cost allocation if Alabama Power is required to relocate facilities due to county road projects.

Next steps: County staff will file executed copies and use the agreement as the standard process for future County-Company utility projects; individual projects will continue to require county permits and project-specific drawings and approvals.