Drivers and pedestrians can expect traffic and walking path disruptions - asked to exercise caution
Chester, VA – Beginning Monday, June 16, Columbia Gas of Virginia will be installing new underground natural gas infrastructure on and around the campus of James Madison University in Harrisonburg. The new infrastructure will better enable Columbia Gas to continue to provide safe and reliable natural gas service to customers in the area.
The Columbia Gas installation work will take place between the hours of 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting at Newman Drive, along Greek Row, Bluestone Drive, crossing under Interstate 81 and paralleling Duke Alley to the 1600 block of Driver Drive. Weekend and night work are also possible, with the project estimated to wrap up in May 2026.
When traveling or walking through Columbia Gas work zones on and around campus, be prepared for slowed or temporarily stopped traffic and potential walking path detours. If you encounter Columbia Gas work crews, please follow these simple tips.
For drivers:
- 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.
For drivers and pedestrians:
- Pay attention to the signs – Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you’ve left the work zone.
- Obey traffic flaggers – A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying directions.
- Stay alert and minimize distractions – Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and walking path and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving.
Information on Columbia Gas of Virginia’s commitment to safety, including the importance of contacting 811 before you dig, home and appliance safety and steps to take if you smell natural gas can be found at www.columbiagasva.com/safety/natural-gas-safety.
About Columbia Gas of Virginia
Columbia Gas of Virginia delivers clean, affordable and efficient natural gas to approximately 290,000 customers in 98 communities across the Commonwealth. With headquarters in Chesterfield County, it is one of six regulated utility companies of NiSource (NYSE: NI), one of the largest fully regulated utility companies in the United States. NiSource employees are focused on our mission to deliver safe, reliable energy that drives value to our customers. More information about Columbia Gas of Virginia and NiSource, including our record of leadership in sustainability, investments in the communities we serve, and how we live our vision to be an innovative and trusted energy partner, is available at www.ColumbiaGasVA.com and www.NiSource.com.
