WSDOT performs repairs on Chumstick Highway

Cracked pavement is visible along Chumstick Highway as crews address road damage while the route serves as a detour for U.S. 2 during the Tumwater Canyon closure. The Washington State Department of Transportation began repairs Monday, with traffic reduced to flagger-controlled lanes in work areas. (Photo courtesy of Chelan County Public Works)

Posted Monday, January 5, 2026 1:45 pm

By TAYLOR CALDWELL
Ward Media Staff Reporter

LEAVENWORTH — A contractor for the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is repairing several sections of failing pavement on Chumstick Highway.

The work started Monday morning and is expected to continue through mid-day Tuesday. Traffic is being flagger-controlled in work areas, and travelers should expect delays.

Chumstick Highway is a detour for US-2 through Tumwater Canyon, which is currently closed from Coles Corner (milepost 85) to Leavenworth (milepost 99). According to Chelan County Public Information Officer Jill FitzSimmons, WSDOT assumes responsibility for Chumstick Highway, including repair work and snow removal, when Tumwater Canyon is closed to traffic.

WSDOT started repairs to the section of US-2 in Tumwater Canyon on Dec. 23. There is no estimated time to reopen. Other sections of US-2 have reopened after sustaining significant storm damage in mid-December, allowing through-traffic over Stevens Pass. However, pilot-car operations remain in place for 5 miles east of the summit (mileposts 66 to 71) from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Overnight closures are intended to expedite emergency repairs.

In a social media post, Chelan County Public Works reminded travelers that over 26,001 pounds gross vehicle weight (gvw) are restricted from using the Chumstick Highway detour. Exceptions are made for trucks making local deliveries or are contracted by WSDOT for its emergency repairs.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media