By Peninsula Daily News news sources
PORT ANGELES — Recent heavy rains and flooding along the Elwha River has eroded key parts of several roads, and Olympic National Park officials have decided to close Olympic Hot Springs Road west of Port Angeles for emergency road repairs.
The road is closed at the park boundary and is expected to remain closed through the long Presidents Day holiday weekend as construction equipment operates in and along the road.
The closure applies to vehicle, foot and bicycle access, park officials said Friday (Feb. 13).
“We regret the inconvenience this may cause for would-be visitors to the Elwha Valley this weekend and encourage people to consider exploring other park destinations during this fee-free weekend,” Olympic National Park Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum said.
“Our crews had hoped to have the road re-opened in time for the holiday weekend, but it is simply not safe to do so.”
Creachbaum said the road repairs are needed at several sites along the road, including three sites near the park boundary.
A combination of rain and flood damage along with pavement damage from an uprooted tree led to the need for emergency repairs and stabilization, she said.
Free day at the park
Olympic National Park joins other parks across the nation in celebrating the Presidents Day weekend with free park entry through Monday (Feb. 16).
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VIDEO of the flood-swollen Elwha River on Feb. 6, taken by John Gussman (SEE fact box at left)
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