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Clearwater Commute Chaos After Crews Slice Gas Line At Keene And Drew

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Published on June 25, 2026
Clearwater Commute Chaos After Crews Slice Gas Line At Keene And DrewSource: Google Street View

A construction crew hit a gas line this morning near the busy intersection of Keene Road and Drew Street in Clearwater, triggering road closures, a big slowdown for drivers and a quick response from police and utility teams.

Shortly after 10:18 a.m. Eastern, the Clearwater Police Department posted an alert on X urging motorists to steer clear of the area. As a result, Drew Street is shut down between Keene Road and Corona Avenue, and traffic on northbound Keene Road is moving slowly while emergency and utility crews secure the scene.

What Officials Posted

In its advisory on X, the Clearwater Police Department said construction workers had struck a gas line and confirmed that Drew Street was closed from Keene Road to Corona Avenue, with northbound Keene Road traffic also affected, according to Clearwater Police Department. Officers urged drivers to avoid the area while utility crews and first responders work to make the scene safe.

Who’s Handling The Fix And Safety Guidance

The city-owned gas utility, CGS Energy, operates the natural gas mains in north Pinellas County and handles gas emergencies, according to the utility’s safety information. CGS advises anyone who thinks they smell gas to leave the area immediately and call the CGS emergency hotline or 9‑1‑1 if the odor is strong; the company also warns people not to use cell phones, start vehicles or operate equipment near a possible leak, per CGS Energy.

Traffic Impacts And Alternatives

Drivers moving through central Clearwater should plan for delays while crews work on the damaged line. To dodge the bottleneck, consider using US‑19, Gulf‑to‑Bay Boulevard or other nearby east–west routes that bypass the affected block. Check local traffic apps and official accounts for real-time updates before heading into the area. Hoodline will monitor official channels and update this story as new information comes in.

Tampa-Transportation & Infrastructure