Highway One Closure Update #2, 1/24/12
Spoke with Collins Jones, PIO for Cal-Trans sometime between 4 and 4:30, but I was on the road, and this is the first opportunity I have had to post this update.
Resident geologist, John Duffy, and his climbing team went up today and did some “scaling.” Scaling is taking the loose stuff down from the top. That operation revealed that the top is still geologically unstable, so they will be going back tomorrow for more scaling. After that operation, Cal-Trans believes they will be able to give a definitive answer about when the road can be re-opened.
Based on my 23 years of experience dealing with rock, dirt, and mud slides here on the South Coast (I’m guessing probably over 100), my view of the photo Cal-Trans provided, my conversations over the years with old-time Cal-Trans workers, as well as more current ones, I suspect the highway may be open on Friday.
That section is the Monterey County what Devil’s Slide is to San Mateo County.
We respect the depth of your experience and insight Kate. Undoubtedly, you will be proven correct!
Will there be an update soon on the voting for your photographic contest?
A new era! Big Sur Kate moves on to predictions! What fun! Should we take bets? =]
But seriously, Kate, many thanks for this amazing service you provide us all. I appreciate the commitment to integrity and clarity you have shown in your information collecting and disseminating. You’re great!