Highway 35 opens to local traffic with restrictions; expect delays

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has revised the evacuation status for residents between mile markers 9 and 11 along Highway 35 who were displaced by the Boulder 2700 Fire.

Effective Wednesday morning, residents in the area are under state 2 status, which warns there is significant danger and residents should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.

Additionally, Highway 35 will reopen to local traffic. The speed limit is reduced to 35 mph from mile markers 6 to 13 for public and firefighter safety.

The Montana Department of Transportation will escort local traffic through the two-mile stretch of the highway with pilot cars from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Drivers need to be aware of existing hazards in the fire area including suppression and tree felling activities, rolling rocks and debris, smoke, firefighter engines and crew vehicles, aircraft and utility vehicles.

Officials ask that drivers not stop in the fire zone.

Both Mission Valley Power and CenturyLink continue to restore power and internet services to the area. Power could be intermittent as infrastructure repair and replacement work continues.