SEQUOIA AND KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS, Calif., 3 August 2023 –

Hi there neighbors!

I have a couple updates to share with you all today.

• After much discussion and consideration of risks, impacts and more, the decision has been made that Mineral King will not open to public access this 2023 season. 
  • Administrative and Residential access will continue.
    • We expect some access restrictions during specific portions of the project, notifications will go out when the time comes.
  • Wilderness permits will be cancelled for the remainder of the season.
  • The two boulders that were on the road have now been blasted and removed.
  • The FHWA contractor is expected to mobilize and begin work in the coming weeks.
  • The latest we’ve heard is that the road project will be completed this year.
• Significant work will be taking place at the One Shot Rock damage location on the Generals Highway between Hospital Rock and Giant Forest.
  • 30-minute maximum delays can be expected beginning Monday, August 7.
  • Flaggers will be in place to manage traffic flow.
• Pavement preservation work continues in Grant Grove.
  • There will likely continue to be disruptions to parking areas as the work continues. 
  • This work is critical in preventing more serious damage long-term.
• Shuttle Service in Giant Forest Suspended Until Further Notice
  • No updates on when the strike may end.
  • Congestion has gotten worse in the last couple weeks with increased visitation and expected to continue for at least another week or two.
  • A social media post has gone up this morning warning visitors to expect congestion throughout the parks.
  • For awareness, SEKI is not involved in negotiations, and does not work directly with Transdev, the shuttle driver provider.
  • SEKI’s partnership is with City of Visalia, and City of Visalia then contracts Transdev to provide shuttle drivers for all their public transportation in Visalia, to include Sequoia Shuttle.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Have a great rest of your week!

Sintia

[SOURCE: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks]