Construction closes cliff dwellings

MIMBRES, N.M. (AP) - Officials say the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument in southern New Mexico will be temporarily closed while crews repair a bridge that leads to the site.

The work is expected to last up to two months, but officials say traffic will be allowed to cross the bridge once the repairs allow for safe passage. That could be as soon as Nov. 24.

The visitor's center will remain open while the repairs are made. Visitors will be able to walk to recreation sites by crossing the river on foot.

Free guided tours of the TJ Ruins will also be available while the bridge is closed.

Officials say the closure will begin Monday.

A contractor will repair the north approach to the bridge, which was damaged by flooding in 2008 and 2010.