US 2 between Skykomish and Stevens Pass set to reopen ahead of schedule

There is relief in sight for businesses in the town of Skykomish.

US 2 between Skykomish and Stevens Pass is set to open Sunday, January 4, Governor Bob Ferguson announced at a press conference Tuesday.

“When I say it’s open on Sunday, it’ll open as in all lanes, no restrictions from here to the pass. So it’s incredibly, incredibly good news,” Ferguson said.

The stretch of highway has been closed for weeks after historic flooding caused severe damage and debris buried the road.

The closure had a significant impact on Skykomish’s economy, as businesses lost vital income during their normally busiest time.

Skykomish Mayor Henry Sladek lost 80 to 90% of revenue at his small inn, and Glenn Edburn, the owner of LouSkis Deli, lost about 60%. Even so, both were pleasantly surprised by out-of-towners who made a point of visiting just to support local businesses.

“We thank you for your support,” Edburn said at the press conference, holding back tears.

Ferguson said his team is working to secure additional federal aid to help individuals and businesses across the state.

“We will do everything we can to make sure we get those federal dollars,” he said.

Crews continue to work on eastern side of US 2

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Secretary of Transportation Julie Meredith said crews are working around the clock to make repairs and have opened at least 90 roads since flooding swept the region. She noted every decision is made with safety in mind, and WSDOT won’t open roads unless deemed safe.

Crews are still working on a key bridge east of Skykomish, though WSDOT said it’s safe for vehicles.

“There was at least five feet of debris over the bridge here at milepost 54,” Meredith said. “We had to remove debris above and logs and debris stuffed underneath the bridge.”

On the eastern side, US 2 between Leavenworth and Stevens Pass has partially reopened to Coles Corner, with a pilot car guiding drivers. However, officials cautioned the route should not be used for through travel, and drivers should still rely on I-90.

Meredith urged people driving along the highway to adhere to signs and follow the pilot car. She also recommended people prepare for typical winter weather and to have a full tank of gas.

Ferguson: It will take months to fully restore highway

Ferguson said that while the early reopening of the western side of US 2 is welcome news, full restoration of the highway is still months away. Several sections of US 2 were completely washed away, including 16 sections of Tumwater Canyon.

“It’s still going to be, I think it’s fair to say, months, that is a certainty, before the highway is restored to what it was before this natural disaster,” he explained.

Crews will continue to do maintenance on the highway during the summer.

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