Wyoming State Highway 22, Teton Pass, is set to reopen this Friday with an interim detour around the Big Fill landslide at milepost 12.8. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) began work on the detour immediately after the collapse on June 8. Crews from Evans Construction and WYDOT personnel have been working tirelessly over the past three weeks to construct a paved, two-lane detour to reconnect the communities in the Teton Valley.
Governor Gordon praised WYDOT’s quick response and dedication to motorist safety. The road will open with a 60,000 lbs gross vehicle weight restriction, but trailer traffic will be allowed. Drivers are advised to proceed with caution, adhere to the reduced speed limit of 20 mph, and follow all traffic signs. More information about driving Teton Pass is available here.
WYDOT’s professional geologists have evaluated the stability of the detour, confirming that it meets or exceeds Federal Highway Administration guidelines with a factor of safety for stability exceeding 1.2. WYDOT will continue to monitor the area using real-time subsurface movement data and ground-based radar detection, along with regular personnel inspections.
The detour is approximately 600 feet long with a grade of 11.2 percent and sharper curves. Crews are currently striping and placing barriers, with the road expected to open around midday on Friday, June 28. Drivers are encouraged to sign up for 511 Notify alerts here to receive a text alert when the roadway is open.
At the mudslide location at mile marker 15.5, crews have installed a box culvert and are preparing for paving operations. This work will continue after the temporary detour opens to ensure traffic on Teton Pass is not impacted. The Wyoming Transportation Commission has awarded the emergency bid to Avail Valley Construction LLC, which will conduct the work under two-way traffic conditions.
WYDOT thanks the US Forest Service and the Idaho Transportation Department for their support in facilitating quick planning and repairs. Drivers are reminded to obey all roadside signs, traffic control devices, and closures. For alerts on road conditions and closures, sign up for 511 Notify alerts here.
