Movement has been observed on the escarpment along Robert Service Way in recent days. According to a post on the City of Whitehorse’s Facebook page, the recent warmer weather has caused thawing, resulting in tension cracks. The cracks began to form on the evening of April 24.
On April 25, the escarpment experienced a minor slide of less than 100 cubic metres.
The Facebook post also notes that crews have detected “an acceleration of water seepage throughout the slope” and that the city’s geotechnical consultants are “closely monitoring” the escarpment.
The city has credited its comprehensive monitoring plan with crews’ ability to respond quickly and has “implemented the response plan to mitigate the impact of any potential small slides.”
As of March 20, a slope scanner has been deployed to monitor movement on the escarpment in real-time.
“Through the use of visual inspections, high-definition imagery, the slope scanner, and the proactive purchase and deployment of jersey barriers and lock blocks, the City is able to keep this important artery open. However, road and trail users should continue to exercise caution in the area and plan accordingly as conditions can change quickly,” the Facebook post reads.
The post additionally notes that existing barriers have been relocated along Robert Service Way and that a lock block wall is being prepared for deployment for smaller slides if conditions worsen.
News staff have witnessed city crews using an excavator to relocate concrete barriers at the base of the escarpment on the afternoon of April 26.
(Matthew Bossons)