SKYKOMISH, Wa \u2014 State officials are working diligently to reopen Highway 2 access to Stevens Pass by Sunday, following a significant closure after December’s catastrophic flooding.<\/p>\n
Gov. Bob Ferguson announced Tuesday that all lanes between Skykomish and Stevens Pass are expected to open in both directions, though the highway will not operate 24 hours a day and some restrictions will remain in place.<\/p>\n
WATCH HERE:<\/p>\n
The highway has been closed since Dec. 10 after mud, water, and debris severely damaged the road, with some sections completely washed out.<\/p>\n
Initially, Ferguson had indicated on Dec. 16 that the highway might remain closed for months due to the extensive damage. A bridge east of Skykomish, particularly affected, required crews to clear feet of debris around Milepost 54 earlier this month.<\/p>\n
The closure has significantly impacted communities on both sides of the mountains, as the highway serves as a crucial winter corridor. It provides access to the Stevens Pass Ski Resort and the town of Leavenworth, which depends heavily on winter tourism.<\/p>\n
While the west side of the highway remains closed, a limited reopening began Monday, allowing skiers and snowboarders to access Stevens Pass from the east. A pilot car is escorting vehicles for the final seven miles to the summit, operating from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., weather permitting. This operation is expected to continue for about a month, after which the state hopes to open one lane in each direction.<\/p>\n