Over the weekend, a snowmelt in the Teton Range caused a major disruption on the Teton Pass Highway connecting Wyoming and Idaho.
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) reported that initial diversion efforts by workers were thwarted as the moving landslide caused additional damage, fortunately without endangering crews. The highway closure is expected to last a significant amount of time.
Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg termed the road damage caused by storms as a “major disrupt.”
Highway 22 has suffered a landslide near the WY/ID Border, causing major travel delays. Our DOT team is aiding Wyoming authorities in repairs. If you’re planning to travel over Teton Pass, make sure your route is planned ahead. https://t.co/bFqjtQEPtR
— Secretary Pete Buttigieg (@SecretaryPete) June 9, 2024
An urgent situation was declared by Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon due to the “catastrophic failures” on the highway, impacting Teton County’s residents, regional commuters, and the local economy.
The Executive Order issued allows for necessary actions to be taken by state agencies in response to the incident, including securing additional funding for substantial repair from the Federal Highway Administration.
WYDOT’s Darin W. Westby emphasized the importance of the Teton Pass highway for commuters, deliveries, healthcare, tourism, and more, especially with limited alternative routes available.
Efforts are ongoing to restore connectivity in the Teton Valley, urging residents to avoid the area for safety reasons. No timeline for completion has been set, though a detour via US-89 and Hoback Junction to Jackson Hole is advised.