Columbia Gas of Virginia relocates, upgrades natural gas infrastructure in Petersburg

PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- Columbia Gas of Virginia will begin relocating and upgrading underground natural gas infrastructure in Petersburg next week -- a project expected to cause traffic disruptions through late fall.

The work, tied to the city’s road-widening project, is scheduled to begin the week of Sept. 8 and continue through the end of November. Crews will be on-site between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m., though some night and weekend work may occur.

Traffic impacts are expected along Hickory Hill Road northbound toward Sustainment Avenue, including Armistead Avenue and Breckenridge Avenue.

The pipeline upgrades are intended to improve long-term safety and reliability for customers in the Petersburg area, Columbia Gas said.

Drivers are urged to use caution in work zones. Columbia Gas offered the following safety reminders:

• Expect the unexpected: Speed limits and traffic patterns may change.
• Slow down: Speeding is a major cause of work zone crashes.
• Keep your distance: Maintain space between vehicles and avoid tailgating.
• Watch for signs: Follow posted instructions until you leave the work zone.
• Obey flaggers: Their directions carry the same weight as regulatory traffic signs.
• Stay alert: Avoid distractions like cell phones or adjusting radios while driving.

You can find out more about Columbia Gas of Virginia’s safety initiatives here.