LOS ANGELES, — October has unparalleled significance for the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), whose professionals plan, manage and build the nation’s most vital infrastructure projects. With roots dating back to October 1934, this month represents International Right of Way month, and IRWA is celebrating its milestone 75th anniversary with events honoring the nation’s most vital infrastructure projects.
Last month, the Honorary Fred Upton of Michigan paid tribute to IRWA in the House of Representatives. As recorded in the Congressional Record of the 111th Congress, first session, he noted, “Right of way professionals play a leading role in the development and advancement of our transportation, water and energy projects, while advancing America for future generations. . ..These professionals improve the lives of citizens across our nation through the building of infrastructure projects that transform our community. . .the highways we drive on, utilities in our homes, and telephone towers that enable us to communicate.”
Earlier this year, the 10,000-member association announced its Top 10 Infrastructure Projects of the past 75 years. Some were well-known projects, such as Hoover Dam, Trans Alaska Pipeline, Golden Gate Bridge and Interstate Highway System. Also ranking in the Top 10 were the Austin Clean Water Program, 2nd Tacoma Narrows Bridge, I-10 Katy Freeway Expansion, Confederation Bridge, Phoenix Metro Light Rail and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise Suncoast Parkway.
“We are excited to share the impact of our profession with the public,” notes Sandy Grigg, SR/WA, IRWA’s International President. “Right of way professionals are a multi-disciplined group, and all of them may be required at one phase or another when a major infrastructure project is undertaken. We handle everything from selecting sites, preparing feasibility studies, dealing with zoning, utilities, environmental reports, government approvals, deed restrictions, utility easements and project management. Our members range from acquisition agents and appraisers to lawyers, relocation experts and surveyors, to name a few. The nation’s infrastructure projects employ thousands of professionals and often span over years and even decades.”
For the past 75 years, IRWA has focused on continuing education and maintaining the high ethical standards of its members. IRWA offers more than 50 specialized courses covering all aspects of the right of way profession. To become a member or learn more about IRWA programs and the right of way industry, visit www.irwaonline.org or call 310-538-0233 – International Right of Way Association
