Highway 2 Reopens Near Skykomish, Boosts Local Business Outlook After Flood Damage

Highway 2 reopened Jan. 1 near Skykomish after flood closures, easing business losses. Gov. Ferguson and Senator Murray highlight recovery efforts.

Brian Henderson January 2, 2026 2 minutes read

SKYKOMISH — After nearly three weeks of flood-related closures, Highway 2 Reopens Near Skykomish on Thursday. Restoring access between Skykomish and Stevens Pass was essential for local businesses that experienced severe revenue losses.

Business owners in Skykomish reported revenue drops of up to 90 percent during the highway closure.

“I was happy to join them in announcing that Highway 2 between Skykomish and Stevens Pass will reopen on Sunday. That’s literally saving local businesses,” said Governor Bob Ferguson during his visit to the flood-affected areas.

Sponsor Message:
This Crash Report is sponsored by CrashLaw.NET, a legal resource for crash victims in Whatcom County. Learn more at CrashLaw.NET.

Federal Support from Senators Murray and Cantwell

U.S. Senator Patty Murray joined the governor alongside Senator Maria Cantwell and other state and local officials. “I’ll keep pushing in the Other Washington to make sure folks get the federal resources they need to respond and recover,” Murray said.

Officials emphasized the ongoing need for federal resources for collaborative efforts at sites such as the Skagit County Flood Wall. The wall became popular with out of town newscasters as they documented how it protected Mount Vernon during the flooding.

The wall was funded with federal support, which many in Whatcom County are starting to push for along the Nooksack River.

While the reopening restores travel for many, officials caution that some segments of Highway 2 east of Stevens Pass remain limited.

The reopening allows limited travel through a five‑mile pilot car‑controlled section east of the Stevens Pass summit. Repairs and debris removal will continue in other segments of the highway. Travelers are advised that full cross‑state access remains restricted and alternate routes such as I‑90 Snoqualmie Pass and U.S. 97 Blewett Pass are recommended for east‑west travel.

Local leaders and businesses say the reopening signals the first step toward economic and community recovery as crews continue work to fully restore the highway and surrounding infrastructure.