Staunton: Work to begin on Downtown Tunnel Repairs project on Feb. 17

The contractor for the Downtown Tunnel Repairs Project will begin mobilization for Phase One of the project on Tuesday, Feb. 17, the City of Staunton announced on Wednesday.

This initial phase focuses on the repairs to the creek tunnel that runs under Byers Street. Mobilization will mark the official start of onsite construction activity.

Traffic, parking impacts

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• Wharf Parking Lot: The eastern portion of the Wharf Parking Lot (that is currently open) will close 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 (photo).
• Parking Garage: The Johnson Street Parking Garage will remain open, free of charge.
• Street Closures: Byers Street will be closed at the intersection with West Johnson Street.
• Pedestrian Access: The Wharf area will remain open. Pedestrian access to all residences and businesses will be maintained throughout construction.
• Perimeter Fencing: Crews will establish perimeter fencing and signage around the construction zone to ensure public safety.

“Mobilization is the first visible step in this critical infrastructure project,” said City Engineer Lyle Hartt. “Starting next week, the public will see the contractor setting up the perimeter, bringing in equipment, and preparing the site. Actual demolition and structural work on the tunnel roof is scheduled to begin later in the month.”

Phase One Construction Sequence

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Once mobilization is complete, the contractor has outlined a preliminary schedule for the Byers Street tunnel, subject to weather conditions:

• Late February: Initial demolition and tunnel roof removal begins
• March-April: Relocation of sewer lines
• April-July: Wall removal and excavation for footers
• July-August: Installation of precast tunnel sections

Updated construction timeline

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The city has received an updated timeline from the contractor for each phase of work. The goal is to reopen Byers Street to through traffic by September 2026.

• Phase 1 – Byers Street Tunnel: February-September 2026
• Phase 2 – West Johnson Street Tunnel: Late summer 2026-spring 2027
• Phase 3 – New Street Tunnel: Completed by late spring 2027

A comprehensive detour plan will route traffic around closures, and wayfinding signage will help guide visitors to 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. We are committed to keeping the Wharf accessible and welcoming throughout this process, and we appreciate the public’s cooperation as work gets underway.”

For detailed project phases, maps and FAQs, visit the newly updated project webpage at www.staunton.va.us/tunnelrepairs.