Why Marking Underground Utilities Is Essential for Fiber Internet Installation

December 10, 2024

Why Marking Underground Utilities Is Essential for Fiber Internet Installation

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.

By Amy Ensley January 8, 2026
Cleveland, Tenn.- December 22, 2025 — The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Cleveland Utilities are proud to announce a significant energy efficiency milestone at the Horizon Square Preservation Apartment Complex. This is a multi-family complex located on Georgetown Road NW. In recognition of the property’s commitment to reducing energy use and improving resident comfort, TVA and Cleveland Utilities are awarding a $31,500 rebate following the replacement of 63 HVAC systems at the complex. Horizon Square Apartments is now recognized as the largest residential multi-family energy efficiency project completed in the TVA service territory to date. DynaMech Heating, Cooling, Electrical & Plumbing completed the project. The HVAC upgrade is expected to deliver substantial energy savings, with an estimated 46,256 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of gross energy savings in the first year alone. This rebate underscores TVA and Cleveland Utilities’ shared commitment to advancing energy efficiency across the region—helping property owners lower operating costs while providing residents with a more comfortable and sustainable living environment. “We are proud to support projects like Horizon Square Preservation that not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also contribute to a more sustainable future,” said Dan Pratt, TVA Senior Vice President of Customer & Stakeholder Relations. “This collaboration showcases our commitment to energy efficiency and highlights the substantial savings we can achieve together.” We are proud to partner with TVA to award this rebate to our customer and recognize their commitment to energy efficiency,” said Tim O. Henderson, President/CEO of Cleveland Utilities. “Projects like this deliver meaningful energy and cost savings that will benefit both the property and its residents for years to come.” DynaMech, the contractor responsible for the HVAC installations, played a critical role in the success of the project. Their technical expertise and dedication to quality ensured that the upgrades were completed efficiently and to a high standard. “We are excited to see the positive impact of our work at Horizon Square,” said Austin Blanchard, Owner. “This project reflects our dedication to delivering energy-efficient solutions that benefit both property owners and residents.”  Horizon Square Apartments’ investment in energy efficiency demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability in the Cleveland community. The successful partnership between TVA, Cleveland Utilities, contractors and property owners highlight what can be accomplished when organizations work together to support energy-saving initiatives that promote long-term environmental and economic benefits. About Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to more than 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA has one of the most diverse energy systems – including nuclear, hydro, coal, gas, solar and advanced technologies. TVA is making significant investments in its power system toward new generation and transmission. TVA is a corporate agency of the United States, receiving no taxpayer funding, deriving virtually all of its revenues from sales of electricity. TVA maintains some of the lowest energy costs and highest reliability in the nation. TVA’s residential rates are lower than those paid by 80% of customers of the top 100 U.S. utilities, and its industrial rates are lower than those paid by over 90% of customers of the top 100 U.S. utilities. In addition, TVA provides flood control, navigation, and land management for the Tennessee River system, and assists local power companies and state and local governments with economic development and job creation. Learn more at tva.com. About Cleveland Utilities Cleveland Utilities is a multi-service utility company in Cleveland, Tennessee providing electric, water, wastewater and fiber services. It strives to be an organization of the highest quality and meet the evolving utility needs of the community. Since 1939, Cleveland Utilities has consistently contributed to the local community and is committed to excellence and professionalism while serving their customers. About DynaMech HVAC, Electrical, and Plumbing service company based in Cleveland, TN and serving the surrounding area. Visit https://calldynamech.com to learn more.
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