Longhouse Scenic Drive will be open for Memorial Day weekend, but the Allegheny National Forest said drivers may need to follow detour signs to reach sites on either side of the closure.

Federal officials were aiming to have Longhouse Scenic Drive open to through traffic by Memorial Day weekend.

Weather delays, though, are the primary culprit for why that will no longer be the case.

A statement from the ANF said the road remains closed between Elijah Boat Ramp and Kiasutha Campground.

“All recreation sites along Longhouse Scenic Drive will be open for Memorial Day weekend but drivers may need to follow detour signs to reach sites on either side of the closure,” according to the ANF. “A contractor is replacing two large arch culverts in the vicinity of Mudlick Run. Heavy rains this spring slowed construction and delayed project completion until early June 2021.”

“We planned to have the road open to through traffic by Memorial Day weekend, the weather this spring resulted in an unfortunate delay,” Public Affairs Officer Christopher Leeser added.

“We apologize for the inconvenience to travelers on Longhouse Scenic Drive and appreciate everyone’s patience while we get this road project completed. Please consider making an extra effort to support local businesses in the area that may be impacted by the road closure.”

Two “aquatic organism passages” are at the heart of the project, connecting Mudlick Run and its tributary. Officials say the project will improve upstream habitat for native species of trout.