Elwha Rivermouth Closure June 1-October 31, 2009

Hello Surfrider's
My name is Ross Tyler and I am the County Engineer for Clallam County. Having perused your web site, it appears that you are most current with your information regarding the soon to be removed Elwha Dams. Although I did not see this item identified in my quick review of your site, my National Park Service contact has informed me that you are aware of the pending work on the levy's on both the East and West side of the Elwha River.
Not wanting to inadvertently leave anyone out of the information loop, I just wanted to let you know, or remind you that the National Park Service has requested that the Elwha Dike Road be closed to public access from it's intersection with Place Road, easterly to it's terminus at the levy. The length of closure requested is from June 1, 2009 to October 31, 2009. This closure is necessary to allow improvements to the levy prior to removal of the Elwha River dams.Property owners who access their properties from the Elwha Dike Road will allowed continued access, subject to minor delays.
During holidays, weekends, evenings, or other periods when equipment is not operating, foot access to the river and, presumably the beach may be possible. However, as most of you know, this is an area of very limited work size and if there is any equipment working at all then it is considered an area of extreme danger and the contractor will be supported in requesting a person or people to leave the work area. The contractor may also be staging equipment and material in the small parking areas therefore areas available for parking may be non-existent even during periods when the contractor is not working.
While it is only speculation on my part, I believe that it may be possible for the contractor to complete this project in less time that we will be approving in this road closure. If that is the case, I (and perhaps even the NPS) will notify that the area is again fully open and ready for the enjoyment of all users.
Again, thank you for your cooperation. Spreading the word would be much appreciated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at this e-mail address or at (360) 417-2448.
Sincerely,
Ross Tyler, P.E.
County Engineer
Clallam County Public Works Department