Reconstruction of Rock Creek Road Underway

Plan for Delays and Parking Restrictions

Major reconstruction on the Rock Creek Road has started and is planned for the duration of the 2014 and 2015 seasons.

Survey work, fencing, and erosion work have been completed thus far with minimal delays. Ground breaking activities that will reduce traffic flow to one-lane are expected to start the week of May 12 and will begin the longer (up to 30 minute) delays.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is overseeing the project that will improve the road, widen it, and provide a bicycle lane along a nine-mile stretch between the Rock Creek Pack Station and Crowley Lake Drive.

This year, re-building of utilities and culverts is planned. Additionally, the reconstruction will begin along the upper part of the project (near the Rock Creek Pack Station).

While the road will remain open to traffic throughout the project, visitors may experience delays of up to 30 minutes. Additionally, at certain times, the road may need to be closed for longer periods of time, Monday through Friday. These closures will be planned approximately two weeks in advance so that recreationalists can plan their visit.

Parking will be extremely limited in the canyon and prohibited within the active construction zone. This includes trailhead parking areas for the Hilton Lake trailhead. Please carpool if possible. When roadside parking, ensure that your vehicle is entirely off pavement.

“This project addresses a desire of the visiting public to have safer access up to the popular recreation areas along Rock Creek,” said District Ranger Margaret Wood. “We request your patience in the short-term during this project that will dramatically improve the experience in the long-term.”

Construction will be suspended for Memorial Day weekend, the Independence Day holiday, and Labor Day weekend in order to minimize delays.

This (other than the temporary PITA delays) can only be a good thing, esp. the bike lane.