WINTHROP—The U.S. Forest Service announced on Wednesday that a popular road in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest will be temporarily closed to repair damage caused by a recent wildfire.
The Falls Creek #5140 road will be closed from August 5 to August 23 to allow for repairs stemming from the Cub2 Fire. The closure affects an 11.5-mile stretch starting at the junction of the main #5100 Chewuch Road and the #5104 Falls Creek Road.
"Repair work will include re-establishment of drainage features to prevent ongoing damage and erosion to the roadway and stream channels, restoration of a safe road prism and travel way to promote re-stabilization of the landscape," the Methow Valley Ranger District said in a statement.
The closure will impact access to the Falls Creek Falls viewpoint and trails leading to Burch Mountain. However, officials confirmed that the main #5100 West Chewuch Road will remain open to public access during the closure period.
Funding for the project comes from the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act of 2021, which provides disaster relief recovery to federal agencies. The funds are earmarked for priority road and bridge repair, hazardous material removal, watershed restoration, and other critical recovery needs on National Forest lands.
The Methow Valley, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, has faced increasing challenges from wildfires in recent years. This closure represents ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of these natural disasters on the region's infrastructure and ecosystems.
Forest Service officials urge visitors to plan accordingly and seek alternative routes during the closure period.
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