http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/134009
"The current prayer area will remain open, supported by pillars, while a new area will be added underneath, at the level at which worshippers at the ancient Temple stood in the past."
(Jerusalem)—Israel National News (INN) reports that Israel is planning a major archaeological dig under the Western Wall (Kotel) plaza, opposite the Temple Mount, which will result in the creation of an archaeological park directly underneath the area where worshippers currently stand while praying at the Kotel. (Photo: INN)
As noted in the report, the current prayer area will remain open, supported by pillars, while a new area will be added underneath, at the level at which worshippers at the ancient Temple stood in the past.
Contrary to accusations that the dig will harm other structures in the area, engineers reportedly told journalists that, in fact, the excavations have improved structural stability in the Temple Mount area, as they led to the discovery of, and strengthening of, areas in which there was a danger of collapse.