Highway 2 Reopens Early, Reviving Local Economy and Access

The stretch of Highway 2 between Skykomish and Stevens Pass has reopened as of 6 a.m. this morning, three days ahead of schedule. The early reopening is attributed to the diligent efforts of construction crews and favorable weather conditions. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced the resumption of traffic, utilizing a pilot car to guide vehicles through a critical five-mile section of the highway that remains under construction to ensure driver safety.

Highway 2 serves as a vital route for local transit and is the primary access point to the popular Stevens Pass Ski Resort. Its closure had significant economic repercussions for nearby businesses. Skykomish Mayor Henry Sladek reported an astonishing 80 to 90 percent drop in revenue at his inn, while Glenn Edburn of LouSkis Deli experienced a loss of around 60 percent. Both business owners expressed gratitude for the support they received from visitors during the closure. “We thank you for your support,” Edburn said in an emotional interview with MyNorthwest.

The highway’s closure stemmed from severe flooding in December that caused roads to become overwhelmed and resulted in landslides burying significant sections of the highway. WSDOT crews worked tirelessly to clear debris and repair the damage. Julie Meredith, Secretary of Transportation, reported that a bridge at milepost 54, previously obstructed by five feet of debris, has been made safe for vehicles.

Despite these advancements, Governor Bob Ferguson warned that full restoration of Highway 2 could take several months due to the extensive damage. Certain sections, particularly in the Tumwater Canyon, have been completely destroyed and will necessitate significant reconstruction efforts. “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,” Ferguson stated to MyNorthwest.

As traffic resumes, WSDOT is advising drivers to consider alternative routes, such as I-90 Snoqualmie Pass, and to be prepared for typical winter travel conditions. The reopening of this crucial connection signifies more than just the resumption of vehicle movement; it is a lifeline for communities like Skykomish, which have faced economic hardships due to the closure.

The highway had been closed since December 10, 2023, causing significant disruptions for commuters, residents, and local businesses. With ongoing construction and the reopening of the road, there is a sense of cautious optimism for a return to normalcy. WSDOT continues to remind travelers to heed signage and follow the instructions of pilot car operations until the highway’s complete restoration.