We have been advised by On-Site Coordinator Joe Gibbens that work constructing the new hazmat access road from Mowich (below Barlow Pass on the Darrington side) will begin this week. It had been expected to begin as soon as snow and soil conditions allowed. Further, foot and bike travel into Monte Cristo should be possible through the end of September rather than “early summer” as originally forecast. Closure remains predicated on the completion of the new road three miles to its intersection with the existing county road at its mile post 2, atop Hap’s Hill. At this point it is unknown how this delay will affect the overall schedule for the cleanup, which was planned to be completed in 2014.