WSDOT will partially reopen WA's Highway 2 on Monday
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 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.
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.
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.
The Source: Information in this story came from the Office of Governor Bob Ferguson and original reporting by FOX 13 Seattle.
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