Better hurry if you want a close look at the Watts Towers

Public tours of the Watts Towers will be restricted beginning Monday for nearly a year to repair rain and wind damage sustained during the storms of 2004-05. The $569,000 project will target damage to the nearly 100-foot-high central tower, which will be encased in scaffolding until repairs are completed, officials tell The Times' Lynell George.

“The rain and the wind cause cracks to open up," said city historic curator Virgina Kazor. “If there is damage beneath the decorative layer, it will be carefully removed and the steel replaced.”

The towers, created by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia over a period of more than 30 years, were virtually off limits from 1994 to 2002 to retrofit the landmark following the Northridge earthquake. This current repair job, however, is scheduled to be completed by next February.

Meanwhile, the grounds, including the Watts Towers Art Center, will remain open and visitors will be able to tour the perimeter outside the security fencing. Read the full story for details.

-- Jesus Sanchez

Photo: Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times