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Date: October 21, 2009
Contact: Sarah Ehlen, 360 854-7305, ext. 13

The National Park Service will be conducting erosion control and abutment work on Tumwater Bridge along the Stehekin Valley Road in North Cascades National Park. The construction will temporarily close the Stehekin Road to all vehicle, bicycle, and foot traffic above Tumwater Campground beginning October 26, 2009. Work is expected to be ongoing through mid-November. The Tumwater Bridge endured flood damage and erosion during and since the 2003 flood.

"We need make these repairs to prevent erosion from further damaging the up-valley abutment, and maintain access and visitation to this portion of the Stehekin Valley," says Chip Jenkins, North Cascades National Park Superintendent.

Hikers wanting to access the upper Stehekin Valley should use the Old Wagon Trail (Pacific Crest Trail) from High Bridge. Tumwater Campground will remain open during the project. Drivers on the Stehekin Valley Road should be aware of the potential to encounter increased vehicle traffic before and during the project, as trucks will be transporting rock and materials to the work site.