May 30, 2023 3:40 a.m.

The Roseburg Public Works Department wants to let residents and business owners know that natural gas pipeline replacements are underway.

Avista Utilities and its contractor Michels Corp. will be replacing aging natural gas mains that are in the public right-of-way, streets, and alleys.

Construction is expected to be complete by the end of October. To minimize traffic impacts, most work on arterial roads will take place between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Mondays through Thursdays.

The project is beginning at the intersection of Northwest Edenbower Boulevard and Northwest Broad Street. It will continue south on Northwest Edenbower Boulevard to Northwest Stewart Parkway. The project will then continue on Northwest Stewart Parkway and then move west on Garden Valley Boulevard to Northwest Newcastle Street.

The pipe replacement is part of Avista’s twenty-year plan natural gas replacement program which began in 2012. The program focuses on replacing pipe that is 1.25 inches to 4 inches in diameter and was installed before 1987, or manufactured before 1985. Replacement is required for natural gas utilities across the country.

During construction, the use of prior notification, reader boards, traffic control and prompt response to customer requests will be used to enhance customer experience. Customers with questions or concerns can contact Avista at 800-227-9187.