As we work to expand fiber to more Cleveland Utilities electric customers, you may notice colored markings or flags in the ground throughout the area. These are signs of progress, indicating that CU Fiber internet lines are expanding throughout the city!

When installing underground facilities, utility companies will mark their lines to identify where underground utilities are located. The colors of the markings follow the American Public Works Association’s standardized color code to signify different utility types:

• Blue: Drinking water
• Green: Sewer and drain lines
• Orange: Communication lines
• Pink: Survey markings
• Purple: Reclaimed water and irrigation
• Red: Electric power lines
• White: Planned excavation
• Yellow: Gas, oil, and hazardous materials

Marking underground utility lines is a critical part of the fiber construction process. CU utilities are marked too so our crews can work safely and to help avoid any interruptions in service.

Underground utilities can pose significant safety risks if damaged during excavation. Gas leaks, internet outages, and water main breaks are just a few examples of potential hazards that can result from hitting buried lines. Accidentally damaging underground utilities can also lead to costly repairs, fines, and project delays.

Tennessee’s Underground Utility Damage Prevention Act (TCA 65-31-101) requires everyone who digs to contact Tennessee 811 at least three working days before starting a project and to mark underground utilities prior to the excavation. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in penalties and legal consequences.

At Cleveland Utilities, following all state and federal regulations is a top priority. These standards help ensure we maintain safe, efficient, and compliant operations while delivering reliable services to our community.

So, if you see colored markings or flags in your area, that’s good news! It means we are expanding our CU Fiber network and bringing rapid, reliable internet to your neighborhood soon.

To learn more about CU Fiber, including when you can expect to have access in your neighborhood, go to https://www.clevelandutilities.com/fiber and search your address.