WSDOT will partially reopen WA's Highway 2 on Monday
Part of Highway 2 to reopen Monday with pilot car access to Stevens Pass
A section of Highway 2 between Leavenworth and Stevens Pass will reopen Monday with a pilot car guiding traffic through flood and mudslide-damaged areas
LEAVENWORTH, Wash. - Gov. Bob Ferguson announced Friday that there will be a limited reopening of a section of U.S. Highway 2 Monday, more than a week after severe floodwaters washed out a 42-mile stretch of the highway.
What we know:
The Washington State Department of Transportation will reopen a 20-mile stretch on the east side of the highway between Leavenworth (near milepost 85) and Stevens Pass (milepost 64) starting Monday, Dec. 29 at 6 a.m.
The move will allow Stevens Pass ski resort operations to resume, though officials noted that travel will differ from normal conditions. Motorists should expect to follow a detour and a pilot car through the area.
"We certainly understand how important the ski area is to local communities and to our economy," Ferguson said.
Governor Ferguson announces partial reopening of State Route 2
Gov. Bob Ferguson announced Friday that portions of U.S. Highway 2 will reopen Monday, more than a week after severe floodwaters washed out a 42-mile stretch of the highway.
What's next:
As for the west side, Ferguson said it's going to take more time to reopen as crews continue to clear debris.
Inspections have been ongoing to determine when it'll be safe for travel or if repairs are needed.
Ferguson plans to give an update to the community on this side of the highway on Tuesday, Dec. 30.
"Today is a great first step. It's good news that folks can access the area from the east side and hopefully get better news or get at least a better assessment about the west side. The ski area business is huge for us, for the whole Skykomish valley," Skykomish Mayor Henry Sladek said.
US 2 washout (WSDOT)
U.S. 2 was closed between Skykomish and Leavenworth earlier this month after stormwater and debris washed out several sections of the highway. Since the closure, traffic has been detoured via U.S. Highway 97 over Blewett Pass and State Route 28 through Quincy.
During a news conference Dec. 16, Ferguson said the state originally anticipated the highway would be closed for months. WSDOT continues to assess damage along the corridor and urges drivers to remain aware of closures still in effect.
WSDOT officials are also advising travelers to prepare for delays and check mountain pass conditions before heading out.
In a statement, officials from Stevens Pass and Vail Resorts told FOX 13:
"It’s time to start the season – something I’ve wanted to say since the snow started to fall. Stevens Pass plans to officially open for skiing and riding on Monday, Dec. 29.
"WSDOT announced today that road access will be partially restored from the East side starting Monday morning. We understand this still impacts our skiers and riders traveling from the East, and that those traveling from the West will still face significant challenges until access is restored, which we should know more about next week.
"For our impacted Pass Holders, we anticipate sharing an update with you early next week on our plans to address the impact to your season.
"In the meantime, please expect to hear from us over the weekend regarding Monday’s terrain offerings, what to expect driving up to the Pass, and more information leading up to opening day. Before then, we want to express our sincere appreciation for our staff, community partners and the teams working around the clock at WSDOT, Hurst Construction, Chelan County PUD, PSE & Granite Construction.
"The snow has piled up, our power supply is holding steady, and our mountain and operational teams are ready to go. This is the first needed step on our path to returning to full operations for our community and our employees. Stay tuned for more details to follow, and we look forward to welcoming skiers and riders back to Stevens Pass on Monday."
The Source: Information in this story came from the Office of Governor Bob Ferguson and original reporting by FOX 13 Seattle.
MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE
‘She’ll never be gone’: Memorial held for fallen WSP Trooper Tara-Marysa Guting
Renton, WA residents expect long cleanup in Cedar River flooding aftermath
VIDEO: Elderly couple robbed, attacked in Lynnwood, WA parking lot
Washington State Ferries begin winter schedules, additional routes adjusted
Driver fleeing police hits family of four in Puyallup, WA
To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter.
Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news.