A landslide near Teton Pass in western Wyoming has caused the closure of Wyoming Highway 22, impacting the daily commutes of thousands of workers traveling between Jackson, Wyoming, and eastern Idaho. The landslide, which occurred over the weekend, resulted in both lanes of the highway collapsing into a ravine, leaving uncertainty about when the road will reopen.
While the closure of Highway 22 does not affect access to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, it is a critical route for commuters traveling between Jackson and eastern Idaho. The closure has forced commuters to seek alternative routes, adding significant time and distance to their daily journeys.
Key Points to Note:
- Signs of the highway slipping were observed prior to the landslide, prompting a temporary closure before the major collapse occurred.
- Commuters who work in Jackson but live in more affordable eastern Idaho are facing extended travel times and increased costs due to the highway closure.
- Local organizations, such as the Teton Raptor Center, are exploring short-term solutions to accommodate employees affected by the closure, including temporary housing arrangements.
- The Wyoming Department of Transportation is working on a plan to partially reopen the highway in the coming weeks, with the support of additional resources from the Federal Highway Administration.
The closure of Highway 22 serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by workers in the region, particularly those who rely on the route for their daily commute. Efforts are underway to address the immediate impacts of the closure and to develop long-term solutions to enhance transportation resilience in the area.
As the community navigates the disruptions caused by the landslide, residents and officials are working together to mitigate the effects on daily life and explore opportunities for rebuilding and improving the region's infrastructure.
