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A road right of way is a legal concept that refers to the land area designated for the construction and

maintenance of a road or highway. It is a strip of land, typically ranging from 10 to 66 feet in width, that
is publicly owned and reserved for the use of transportation.

The right of way area typically extends beyond the physical width of the road or highway to
accommodate the necessary features such as ditches, drainage structures, and utility easements. It is
important to note that a road right of way is not the same as the actual paved road surface but includes
the land on which the road is built.

Road right of ways are established through various means, including public acquisition, dedication, or
easements granted by property owners. They are essential for ensuring safe and efficient movement of
vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles along a roadway. Additionally, the road right of way provides access
to adjacent properties and allows for the installation and maintenance of necessary infrastructure, such
as streetlights, signs, and signals.

In summary, a road right of way is the land area designated for transportation purposes and is publicly
owned to ensure safe and efficient movement of people and goods along a roadway.

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