The port in Skagway, Alaska operated by the Alaska Marine Highway System is currently shut down due to significant structural damage to the docking facility. Consequently, all ferry operations to and from Skagway have been halted.
Moreover, the South Klondike Highway, connecting Whitehorse and Skagway, has been closed daily from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. between Carcross, Yukon, and the B.C. border following several rock slides last Tuesday.
Gabe Strong, the public information officer for the Alaska Marine Highway System, reported that the port’s vehicle bridge and passenger walkway exhibited initial cracking on Thursday. Subsequently, Alaska Department of Transportation engineers deemed it necessary to close the terminal on Saturday due to further cracking.
To manage the situation, officials from the Alaska Department of Transportation are on their way to Skagway to supervise the response efforts and aid local staff. Commercial divers will soon inspect the damage underwater, including the anchor chains, while electricians are in the process of disconnecting all electrical power to the float. The removal of the damaged bridge and walkway is expected to be completed by Wednesday.
Assessments are underway to identify the cause of the incident, with more details to be shared once investigations are concluded. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries.
Emphasizing passenger and crew safety, Gabe Strong highlighted that operations will resume only after a thorough inspection and full security assurance of the facility. Although there is no set timeline for when services will resume, updates will be provided post the completion of the damage assessment.
The Alaska Marine Highway System has been actively reaching out to passengers with existing reservations to facilitate refunds and assist in arranging alternative travel plans.
