Don't count on the restrictions being lifted. Most projects take longer than planned, and their adding the second layer of asphalt to the pavement seems to be stalled. After that occurs, they still have to add all the line painting and such, so I expect this project will run clear to the end.
Hitching is really easy.
Psyko: Good luck on your ambitious peak bagging trip! I once planned that trip, but we ended up bailing after tagging Tyndall and Willi in the same day, then spending the most miserable, windiest night ever in the Sierra at Lk Helen of Troy. (The wind was only part of the reason for bailing.)
Steve - should be a good trip. Weather tends to be pretty stable around that time of year so hopefully all will go well there. Going to make it a 5 day trip. Up to Shepherds Pass on Day 1 after an early start, Tyndall & Willi day 2, Trojan and Barnard day 3, Russell via east ridge, up Whitney via MR down to Muir on the main trail, then back down the MR and camp at Iceberg Lake on day 4, and hike out on day 5.
How was the going up the Russell-Carillon Pass from the north side? I know you were up there at the beginning of the month.