Workers break up a sizable block of stone blocking access to Zimovia Highway on January 19. A rockslide the previous evening temporarily blocked off access to traffic in both directions, but contractors working for the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities were able to clear the obstruction by Friday evening.
A sizable rock slide along Zimovia Highway Thursday evening temporarily blocked off access to traffic.
The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities was notified of the slide at 7:30 a.m. Friday morning, and arranged with local contractors to remove the debris. One lane was opened to traffic by 9 a.m., with workers on the scene coordinating with traffic to allow movement through the area.
Drivers passing through the temporary chokepoint should be prepared for a slight delay while the crew breaks up and clears the stony debris. Emergency signage has been posted to warn traffic approaching from either side, but for their own safety and that of workers on the scene drivers ought to stay alert and approach slowly, cooperating with the foreman's directions.
The DoT is still assessing the situation as the pile clears. While it is hoped the material can be cleared from both lanes by Friday evening, it is possible the fallen rock may have damaged the road surface on at least one side of the road.
DoT has reported that, as of noon, both lanes of the highway are now clear, though untrammeled access may still be intermittent throughout the day as roadside clearing continues. Drivers are still asked to drive slowly and alertly through the work zone.
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