There's new information tonight on the size and scope of the I-40 rock slide.
The Department of Transportation now says it will have to clearly nearly 500,000 tons of rock, or one billion pounds, from the roadway.
That's bigger than originally expected, which means they're also pushing back the timeline for reopening the road.
The DOT estimates it will be four months before even two lanes are open.
Some nearby businesses owners say it could force them to close as well.
Motels, gas stations, and mechanic shops near that section of Interstate 40 depend on the customers brought in by passing traffic.
The owner of the Midway Motel at exit 24 fears she may have to shut down, at least temporarily.
Today, repair and clean-up crews returned to the site of the slide. They're working only daylight hours for now, because it's too dangerous to work at night.
Once unstable rocks are removed, they'll begin working around the clock.
By Heather Graf
Slide Hurts Mountain Businesses
Posted: Thursday, October 29 2009, 04:17 PM CDT
