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Kansas City Ordinance Will Pluck Unsightly Utility Line Marker Flags

Excavation safety group - dlickr.com

An ordinance advanced by a Kansas City Council committee on Wednesday would require contractors to pluck the unsightly markers when their work is done.

Utility line excavation markers are required by law,  but the fluttering swatches of yellow and orange that  line lawns along roadways often remain long after they have served their purpose. 

Their wire stems may pose mowing hazards for several years to come.

Public Works Director Sherri McIntyre said the ordinance will require the removal of the flags before the contractor can close the permit on the job site.

McIntyre allowed that though some residents object to the orange and yellow paint marks often sprayed on lawns, streets and sidewalks, there is no practical method for its immediate removal.

“I know sometimes it is considered unsightly,” she said, “but if you see the grass the grass does grow and after a couple of mowings it will probably be gone.  And if it is on the sidewalk and the road it eventually does wear off.”

Councilman Scott Taylor said even after the flags have bleached white and fallen off, the support wires may still be in a lawn after several years if they are not removed.

The full council is expected to approve the ordinance.

Steve Bell is afternoon news anchor and business news reporter for KCUR.  He may be reached at 816-235-5173 or by e-mail as steveb@kcur.org

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