The hook
Route surveys serve linear infrastructure: highways, pipelines, transmission lines. The deliverable is alignment + profile + cross-sections + ROW, all referenced to stationingfrom a defined start point. Different from boundary work in workflow but governed by the same legal principles.
Memorize these
Concepts that show up on the exam
Stationing
Linear measurement along the alignment from a defined start. 1+00 = 100 ft from start; 12+50.00 = 1,250 ft. Stations are HORIZONTAL distance, not slope.
Centerline alignment
The horizontal centerline of the corridor. Composed of tangents and curves (horizontal and vertical).
Profile
The vertical profile of the centerline as a function of station. Shows existing ground + design grade + vertical curves.
Cross-section
A view perpendicular to the centerline at a given station. Shows existing + design surfaces.
Right-of-way (ROW)
Strip of land dedicated for the route (typically 50-200 ft wide). Width set by the project authority; often surveyed and platted as part of the route survey.
Construction stationing
Original stationing follows the alignment exactly; equations are introduced when alignment is revised. "STA EQ 12+50.00 BACK = 12+45.00 AHEAD" handles geometry changes mid-corridor.
Test yourself
How well did it stick?
A quick 5-question check on Route Surveys (Alignments + Utilities). See where you stand and what to review.