Residents along Watauga Street, brace yourselves for the sight of survey crews come the new year, according to an announcement from the City of Kingsport, as Atmos Energy sets its sights on upgrading gas lines in the area. Beginning January 5, crews will descend upon Watauga Street, marking out the right-of-way with stakes, a heads-up for locals who might be curious about the sudden influx of survey tapes and personnel on their turf.
The energy company has laid out a six-month plan starting January 5, splitting the work into two distinct three-month phases to ensure the least possible disruption. A schedule obtained by the City of Kingsport indicates that the first leg of this gas line renaissance will transform the stretch between the Watauga Street roundabout and Linville Street, followed by the second act that takes the upgrade baton from Linville to Lamont Street.
Construction is poised to primarily tango with the space between the sidewalk and the road, however, there's the occasional interlude that may push workers to pivot behind the sidewalk though still snugly within the public's embrace of the right-of-way.
While no road closures are forecasted, motorists are encouraged to stay vigilant, keeping an eye out for the flagmen who will populate the work zones. Bustling with a caution worth heeding, this advisory, reinforced by local authorities, serves to preempt any potential roadside confusion or mishap. For those seeking details, the well of information runs deep courtesy of Operations Supervisor John Bradley, reachable at 423-791-4996.
