Commuters traveling from Idaho to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, are expressing their frustration over the lengthy detour through the Star Valley area after the recent collapse of Highway 22 on Teton Pass. The closure has resulted in significantly increased commute times, with some drivers reporting journeys of up to four hours or more.

One commuter, Mary L., revealed that her once manageable 40-minute commute from Idaho to Wyoming has now ballooned to approximately three hours. She described the traffic congestion that backs up into the canyon, forcing her to leave as early as 6 a.m. for a 9-to-5 shift. Previously, she would leave just an hour earlier and arrive in approximately 40 minutes. Now, the detour adds an extra hour to her journey, unless traffic is particularly heavy, which can further extend travel times.

Rachel Cisto shared a similar experience, leaving her Idaho home at 5:45 a.m. for a 9 a.m. shift, anticipating ample extra time. However, due to the increased congestion caused by the detour, she did not reach her workplace until 9:15 a.m. Cisto highlighted a particular bottlenecked 6-mile stretch between the Idaho state line and the Broulin Grocery Store, which alone took her 40 minutes.

Teton County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Jesse Willcox, a commuter himself, warned that the traffic situation is becoming increasingly intense. With major traffic influx from the Star Valley area, Teton Valley in Idaho, and beyond, bottlenecks have emerged as multiple lanes merge into a single lane. Willcox advised drivers to exercise patience, mentioning instances of road rage observed on the roads, with some individuals attempting to speed past multiple vehicles, putting themselves and others at risk.

The traffic situation has even caused accidents near the intersection of West Highway 22, South Highway 89, and Broadway in Jackson. Temporary traffic diversions have been challenging, with traffic flow exceeding the capacity of regular city streets.

Desperate to find alternate routes, some drivers have been exploring unconventional paths never intended for regular highway traffic. Complaints have been received regarding drivers cutting through a forest service road that connects South Highway 89 to Wilson. However, this approach presents its own set of challenges, including reduced speed limits, gravel sections, and poorly maintained surfaces.

The increasing burdens of the lengthy detour have begun to take a toll on commuters, both psychologically and financially. Mary L. highlighted the tripled expenses she now faces, including gas and the need to rely on outside food due to longer commute times and exhausted evenings. She expressed concern about the impact this could have on Jackson's already strained workforce, particularly for those living paycheck to paycheck.

As the closure of Highway 22 on Teton Pass continues, Wyoming-Idaho commuters are urged to remain patient and consider alternative routes if possible. The Teton County Sheriff's Office advises drivers to exercise caution and be mindful of the safety of themselves and others on the road.

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