Date: June 28, 2017
Contact: Penny Wagner, 360-565-3005
The final phase of storm damage repairs on Mora Road involving repaving and sealing operations is finishing up this week. Park officials anticipate the road to reopen to the public for the upcoming holiday weekend.
“We understand the public’s desire to visit Rialto Beach, especially for the upcoming holiday weekend,” said Acting Superintendent Lee Taylor. “The road work is crucial for continued long-term access to Rialto Beach and we look forward to visitors enjoying the area once again."
Mora Road was reduced to one lane after winter storm flooding in 2015-2016 caused a major wash-out. The road slumped and continued monitoring of the pavement cracks indicated ongoing downward movement of the road sub grade. Geotechnical engineers determined the road could not support vehicle loads safely. Further erosion led to increased undermining of the road bed.
Flood damage repair work on Mora Road began six weeks ago. This project has restored the flood-damaged road to two lanes and addressed additional slope instabilities. Due to the nature of the road repair, there is no access to Rialto Beach until the completion of the road work.
In addition to the necessary work to reinforce the road and repair the pavement and current slope failures, this project also proactively stabilized adjacent sections along the river side of the Mora Road which were showing signs of instability. This preemptive work will help protect against future issues.
For current road and travel information, visitors should consult the park website at www.nps.gov/olym or call the recorded Road and Weather Hotline at 360-565-3131. For questions about backcountry permits contact the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles at 360-565-3100.
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