The Fallacy of Extending Service Connections to the Curb Line Previous to Paving

Abstract

If there is one thing upon which municipal engineers are united, it is in an effort to minimize the destruction of pavements by tearing them up for the purpose of laying subsurface conduits, piping, etc. The principal difficulty in the solution of this problem is due to the fact that it is impossible to ascertain beforehand to just what extent and in what manner unimproved property will eventually be improved. Probably the most common method of overcoming these difficulties, and strange to say one that meets with general approval, is often embodied in a clause in the official order under which the work is done which reads about as follows: And that all water, gas and sewer service pipe, where not already in, be extended to the curb line, and the cost thereof be assessed to the property benefited. In compliance with an order of this kind there is practically but one thing to do and that is install a connection to every platted lot or piece of ground upon which a building may be constructed in the future. Thus, assuming the average width of lot as 35 feet, the water main will be tapped on each side and a service connection extended to the curb at intervals of that distance. The cost of making such connections will vary widely according to the width of the improvement and the character of the excavation, but may in general be considered at about $18 for a f-inch pipe complete. The pavement surface necessary to disturb at a later date to install a similar connection we will estimate as 6 square yards. It is then apparent that the expenditure at the time of paving to insure the surface against being molested is approximately $3 per square yard, less whatever value the connection itself may have. In view of the fact that the above price is very nearly