With some people cut off from their homes by a major flood-water washout of SR 206 near Spokane, Gov. Chris Gregoire said this afternoon that she'll issue an emergency proclamation to draw federal dollars to help pay the $1 million-plus repair bill. Nearly a quarter-mile of road was destroyed by fast-melting creeks that roared over their banks and washed away large stretches of the roadway.

"With some residents living in this area now completely cut off from their jobs and schools, it is imperative that emergency repairs get done quickly," Gregoire said today on a trip to Spokane.

State engineers closed the highway from about the Mount Spokane state park gates to the summit. There are no detour roads. A contractor has been hired to immediately start rebuilding the ruined road.

Appearing with Gregoire were state Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, D-Spokane, and fellow Sen. Chris Marr, also D-Spokane. Both praised the quick response.

The road crews hope to have a single-lane route open within two or three days for local residents and park staff.

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