YOSEMITE (KMJ) — Yosemite National Park’s Big Oak Flat Road is now open once again. It follows months of disruption caused by severe winter storms washing the surface away.
“We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the gateway communities and visitors for their support and understanding during the repair process,” says Acting Superintendent Chip Jenkins, “We would also like to thank the Federal Highway Administration and the contractors for their great work and support.”
It was February of this year when an underground spring first damaged the road, with over 200 feet of it sliding downhill. The route was blocked off while work to repair commenced. It meant vehicles trying to enter Yosemite National Park from Highway 120 were forced to enter via a different way, adding delays to the usual journey time.
“It’s been wonderful to have the rain and the snow. We certainly need it,” says the park’s Scott Gediman. “But the biggest impact has been on the park roads.”
While the road was closed entrance fees for those entering via Big Oak Flat Road were waived. But now with the highway open, entrance fees will be charged at the station there once again.
However the disruption is not over completely. Visitors using Big Oak Flat Road are being warned to prepare for one-lane traffic closures with possible delays of up to 15 minutes, as well as overnight road closures, to allow final repair work to be carried out.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
