STANLEY, Idaho — The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced that they will reopen State Highway 21 between Lowman and Stanley on September 20.
ITD said that traffic will be managed with a pilot car or flagging operations to safely guide people through areas where crews are working on repairs. ITD is engaged in repair work and likely will be until further notice due to road damage along State Highway 21 from the fire.
The Wapiti Fire has brought significant damage to the highway from eroded hillsides, hazardous trees, and damaged guardrails. The rain from the previous days did help fire suppression efforts but also led to slides and boulders falling on the highway from the burn scar flooding. ITD also said they are working alongside emergency contractors to address the damage.
ITD advises drivers to avoid unnecessary trips through SH-21 and tells drivers not to stop along the highway.
Drivers traveling through the affected area should expect:
- Traffic being guided by a pilot car or flaggers during road work.
- A temporary reduced speed limit of 45 miles per hour.
- Significant delays when crews are working on the highway.
- Repair work continuing until weather conditions make further progress impossible.
ITD also advises drivers to check 511.idaho.gov before heading out to make sure the road will be accessible.
With SH-21 being closed, driving to Stanley was more difficult with drivers instead having to take Highway 75 to get to Stanley. Highway 75 goes through Ketchum and Hailey which leaves a longer drive from the Treasure Valley.
