The proposed action was developed to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts, including the acquisition of highway right-of-way for future construction of the project. Reconstructing Powers Boulevard as a freeway would require acquisition of additional highway right-of-way from land adjacent to the existing expressway, particularly in the vicinity of proposed interchanges where freeway ramps or frontage roads are needed.

Although most right-of-way acquisitions required are small slivers of existing property, 23 duplexes, 1 freestanding residence and commercial buildings consisting of 17 businesses will have to be acquired entirely. Based on the current funding outlook, these acquisitions are not expected to occur before the year 2020.

The state follows a set of federally mandated procedures to acquire property. Depending on the circumstances, this may also include procedures to assist in relocating residents and businesses.

Some land has already been purchased for right-of-way near the Powers Boulevard/Airport Road intersection. CDOT saved money in this area by buying vacant land before development could occur.