STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — Drivers in Staunton are asked to exercise caution when traveling through work zones as Columbia Gas of Virginia upgrades natural gas infrastructure in the area. The project, which begins in February 2026 and is estimated to wrap up in February 2027, will help ensure the continued delivery of safe, reliable and efficient natural gas in the area for years to come.

During the project, Columbia Gas will replace underground pipeline in Staunton along a significant number of roadways including Spring Hill Road, Donaghe Street, Hendren Avenue, Glen Avenue, Parkview Avenue, Selma Boulevard, Spruce Street, Pinehurst Road, Pine Glen Road, Belmore Avenue, Ridgeway Drive, Terrace Street, Skymont Circle, Skymont Road, Westover Drive, Norwood Road, Nottingham Road, Robinhood Road, Boddington Road, Nathan Lane, and Chesley Place.

Work will take place between the hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with weekend work possible.

As a part of the project, Columbia Gas will carry out restoration work which may include temporary hard-surface patching on public and private property. Permanent restoration work will follow upon completion of the project.

When traveling through Columbia Gas work zones, be prepared for slowed or temporarily stopped traffic. If you encounter Columbia Gas work crews, follow these tips:

  • Stay alert and minimize distractions – Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving.
  • Expect the unexpected – Normal speed limits may be reduced; traffic lanes may change; and people may be working on or near the road.
  • Slow down – Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.
  • Keep your distance – Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you, and don’t tailgate.
  • Pay attention to the signs – Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you’ve left the work zone.
  • Obey road crew flaggers – A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying directions.