I get it I've run many sites over the years and I know exactly what goes on in the background. There are different reasons why folks are all over the place here.
The biggest issue by far is the lack of communication to end users. We had no idea what was going on. I had to search all over the Internet just to figure out what was going on. I'm sure there are many more like me who have no idea what's going on. A simple banner, disclaimer, redirect anything would be better than a time out.
I do appreciate your updates, now that I know you are part of the team I feel better about the situation. I'd I had know you worked for the site I probably wouldn't have said anything and stood by waiting.