Jan. 28, 2026 – Following an aggressive deployment of heavy machinery and contractor support, the City of Staunton Public Works Department reports that crews have now cleared at least one travel lane on 90 to 95 percent of city streets.
Crews will continue operations overnight, with the goal of reaching every remaining street in the city by the end of the day Thursday, Jan. 29.
Once every street has received an initial pass, crews will shift their focus to widening travel lanes and pushing back snow piles to improve access.
Heavy Equipment Strategy Pays Off
Recognizing that standard plows were insufficient to break the ice pack, the city continued its ‘break and clear’ strategy today, utilizing nearly 25 additional pieces of equipment from private contractors, including nine heavy-duty agricultural tractors, to support city forces.
“The reinforcement of heavy tractors and motor graders allowed us to physically break the ice bond on residential streets that standard plows couldn’t touch,” said Director of Public Works Dave Irvin. “With this increased power, we are closing in on the final 10 percent of uncleared roads.”
Hold Trash Until Next Week
To ensure all available heavy vehicles and public works staff remain dedicated to snow removal, trash collection is canceled for Thursday and Friday.
- Thursday and Friday Customers: Please hold your trash until your regularly scheduled collection day next week. Refuse crews continue to assist with snow and ice removal.
- Extra Trash Next Week: The city will collect extra bags and bins next week to accommodate the missed service.
- Return to Service: Commercial pickup in the Central Business District will resume Saturday, Jan. 31. Normal residential trash schedules will resume Monday, Feb. 2.
Important Reminders
- Stay Informed: Sign up for Staunton Alert Message and city news updates. Updates will also be shared on the city’s website and the city’s social media pages.
- Keep snow out of the street: Do not shovel snow from sidewalks or driveways into the roadway. Businesses are reminded not to move snow from their parking lots onto the sidewalks.
The city thanks residents for their patience as crews continue working around-the-clock to clean up after this winter storm.
Contact Us
- Emergency: Call 911
- Public Works: 540.332.3892
- Staunton Public Library: 540.332.3902
- City Hall: 540.332.3812
