Chelan, WA – A full 17-day closure of the Knapps Hill Tunnel on US 97A is scheduled to begin Monday, impacting traffic between Chelan and surrounding areas.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the tunnel will close 24 hours a day from Sept. 8 through Sept. 24 to accommodate lighting system upgrades as part of a $1.8 million project. The project aims to modernize aging infrastructure and improve driver visibility inside the tunnel.
The Knapps Hill Tunnel is located approximately six miles southwest of Chelan on US 97A. During the closure, WSDOT recommends two alternate routes:
- For travel between Entiat and Chelan: US 97A to SR 971 via Navarre Coulee Road and Lakeshore Drive.
- For travel between Wenatchee and Chelan: US 97 north to SR 150 at the Beebe Bridge, then east to US 97A.
There are no weight restrictions on either detour.
WSDOT engineers say the current lighting system is outdated, with many panels no longer functioning. The new system will adapt to ambient brightness, allowing tunnel lights to automatically adjust based on outside conditions.
Originally slated for 2024, the tunnel work was delayed due to supply-chain issues, according to WSDOT. In addition to lighting, contractors will update scaffolding, wiring, and conduits throughout the tunnel.
Travelers are encouraged to check the WSDOT real-time travel map for current road conditions and updates on the project timeline.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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