Highway Developments at the Papoose

[Tyrone Brett]

The Highway 99 construction contractor has felled alot of trees on the rock buttress separating the Papoose from the highway. This is in preparation for blasting which will take place in the not too distant future. The blasting will be significant, and while the actual main Papoose cliff will not be physically affected, an unfortunate permanent result will be a significantly changed ambiance (sightlines and increased noise). The climbs on the rock closer to the highway will likely be no more. The approximate blast line will hug the southern-most hydro tower and angle northwest.

There will be closures in the short term and we are working with the area manager to ensure appropriate notice and signage to clearly indicate to climbers what the scoop is at any given time.

Background note: During the consultation phase with recreational groups, the Ministry of Transportation did not foresee impacts of this magnitude in the area, as the original plan was for three lanes. The decision afterwards to move it to four lanes has resulted in a much changed scenario which unfortunately will alter the experience at the Papoose.

Tyrone Brett, Squamish Access Society