STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — The City of Staunton will begin onsite construction for Phase One of its Downtown Tunnel Repairs Project on Tuesday, February 17, as contractor Virginia Infrastructure of Lexington mobilizes crews and equipment in the downtown area.

Phase One focuses on repairs to the creek tunnel running beneath Byers Street. Mobilization marks the first visible stage of construction and will include setting up perimeter fencing, signage, and staging areas in preparation for demolition and structural work later this month.

As work begins, several traffic and parking changes will take effect. The eastern portion of the Wharf Parking Lot, which is currently open, will close on Feb. 17 to serve as the primary staging area for construction equipment and materials. The western side of the Wharf Parking Lot will remain open, and the Johnson Street Parking Garage will continue to be available free of charge. Byers Street will be closed at its intersection with West Johnson Street, while pedestrian access to the Wharf area, residences, and businesses will be maintained throughout construction.

City Engineer Lyle Hartt said mobilization represents a key milestone for the long-planned infrastructure project. “Starting next week, the public will see the contractor setting up the perimeter, bringing in equipment, and preparing the site,” Hartt said. “Actual demolition and structural work on the tunnel roof is scheduled to begin later in the month.”

Following mobilization, the contractor’s preliminary schedule for the Byers Street tunnel includes initial demolition and tunnel roof removal in late February, sewer line relocation in March and April, wall removal and excavation for footers from April through July, and installation of precast tunnel sections between July and August. The schedule is subject to weather conditions.

The city has also released an updated overall timeline for the multi-phase project. Phase One, covering the Byers Street tunnel, is expected to run from February 2026 through September 2026, with the goal of reopening Byers Street to through traffic by September. Phase Two, addressing the West Johnson Street tunnel, is planned for late summer 2026 through spring 2027, while Phase Three, involving the New Street tunnel, is expected to be completed by late spring 2027.

City officials emphasized their commitment to minimizing disruption in the downtown area. A comprehensive detour plan and wayfinding signage will help direct traffic and visitors around closures and toward the Wharf district.

“As we move from planning to active construction, our priority remains the safety of our residents and visitors and the success of our local businesses,” said City Manager Leslie Beauregard. “These repairs are essential to prevent future infrastructure failures, and we are committed to keeping the Wharf accessible and welcoming throughout this process.”