Interchange – April 2023

Buyer Beware

WYDOT, AG’s Office warn about recent online scam

By Jordan Achs

When most people think of The Wyoming Department of Transportation protecting the public, they might think of a Wyoming Highway Patrol Trooper or a snowplow operator, but the agency’s Compliance and Investigation program also works to keep people safe.

The program regulates vehicle industries in the state, including vehicle dealers, salvage yards, towing companies, Wyoming-based commercial trucking companies, ignition interlock device service centers, among others. Work includes investigating cases of fraud or other crimes relating to vehicles and dealerships in the state and training for businesses, law enforcement agencies, county clerks and treasurers on how to spot potential fraud.

WYDOT’s Compliance and

Investigation program, in partnership with the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection and Antitrust, recently alerted the public about an ongoing online scam.

The state received reports of a business named “J&P Trailers” reportedly based in Cheyenne advertising trailers for sale on websites like Facebook or Craigslist. Customers never received any trailer, even after sending funds.

“Our investigations show no business named J&P Trailers registered in Wyoming,” said Shane Fox, senior investigator with WYDOT’s Compliance and Investigation program. “We are certainly seeing an increase in online scams, especially relating to buying, selling or trading vehicles or trailers.”

As online commerce becomes more ubiquitous, it’s easy for scammers to pose

as a legitimate business looking to sell trailers, boats or other types of vehicles. Often these scammers use popular buy, sell and trade sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or similar sites to find potential victims.

Beyond fake sales ads on social media sites, popular vehicle- or dealer-related scams include:

• Vehicle Identification Number fraud, where a vehicle has the VIN altered to mislead consumers, dealerships, law enforcement and more. It often occurs in conjunction with vehicle theft.

• Title Fraud, which is when a vehicle’s title is altered in a way that misrepresents the true condition or worth of the vehicle.

• Odometer fraud, where the vehicle’s odometer is tampered with to change

SCAM SCAM

Consumers need to be aware of fraudulent websites that may be spoofing real businesses in order to gain trust and trick the unsuspecting. Fraud

Interchange is published for employees of the Wyoming Department of Transportation by its Public Affairs Office and a number of field correspondents.

Interchange invites submissions from all employees. Please send them to either your district correspondents or to Carlie Van Winkle, Interchange editor 5300 Bishop Blvd., Cheyenne, Wyoming, 82009-3340 or send an email to carlie.vanwinkle@wyo.gov.

Staff

WYDOT Director, interim

Darin J. Westby, P.E.

Public Affairs Manager

Doug McGee

Editor

Carlie Van Winkle

Contributors

Jordan Achs Public Affairs

Matt Groth Public Affairs

Mark Horan Public Affairs

Carlie Van Winkle Public Affairs

Andrea Staley District 1

Jeff Goetz District 2

Stephanie Harsha District 3

Laura Dalles District 4

Cody Beers District 5

Sgt. Jeremy Beck Patrol

Be sure to check out the online version of Interchange at http://issuu.com/ wydot.pao or click on the link found on the employee’s internal website home page.

the number of miles indicated.

• Vehicles from locations experiencing extreme weather (flooding, hurricane, etc.) that are sold in another state without disclosing all damages, especially weather-related damages.

If anyone has also fallen victim to the recent trailer scam or other types of scams, contact WYDOT’s Compliance and Investigation program using their complaint form online at: https:// www.dot.state.wy.us/home/vehicle_ bus_regulation/vehicle-dealerships/ dealer_compliance.html or 307-777-3815 and/or the AG Consumer Protection unit via their complaint form online at: https://ag.wyo.gov/law-office-division/ consumer-protection-and-antitrust-unit/ consumer-complaints or at (307) 7778962.

In WYDOT’s 2021 Annual Report, Compliance and Investigation noted recent accomplishments, including seeing a 99 percent overall satisfaction rate from trainees throughout the year, assisting a Wyoming town with a title brand fraud case involving a licensed Wyoming dealer, an odometer fraud case that resulted in a Wyoming dealer’s license revocation,

and helping a county clerk with a title alteration case and providing relevant training.

Compliance and Investigation has a

Headquarters office and investigators in three regions: southeast, northeast and western.

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMS

• Check that the business is included in the Wyoming Secretary of State’s list of registered businesses: https://wyobiz.wyo.gov/Business/FilingSearch.aspx

• If buying from an automobile dealer, salvage yard or rental vehicle agency, check that they are included on WYDOT’s List of Licensed Vehicle Dealers, which can be found on WYDOT’s website: https://www.dot.state. wy.us/home/vehicle_bus_regulation/new-business.html

• Ask to inspect the vehicle or trailer in person or have a neutral third-party inspect in person. If the seller refuses, it could be a sign of a scam.

• Research the company; do an online search of their phone number, address and other company information to ensure the information matches the online ad or information given by the seller/buyer

• Ask for a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), license plate number or other registration information to use to confirm with the county directly and ensure they match.

• Use extreme caution if the seller or buyer insists on using money wiring services like Zelle, Venmo, Western Union or other unconventional methods like gift cards, but refuses alternative means of payment, including a personal check or meeting in person to exchange cash.

WYOMING DEALERSHIPS – AVOID HAVING YOUR COMPANY SPOOFED ONLINE BY SCAMMERS:

• Do regular internet searches for your business to see if results match your legitimate contact information

• Avoid sending a photo of your dealer license via the internet, instead point customers to the WYDOT licensed dealer’s page. Scammers sometimes use these photos on spoof websites.

Be sure to check with WYDOT’s List of Licensed Vehicle Dealers on the Compliance and Investigation page of WYDOT’s website before buying autos or trailers.

District Briefs

Headquarters Commission awards nearly $9.6 million in contracts in March

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Transportation Commission awarded almost $9.6 million in contracts for five Wyoming Department of Transportation construction projects during its March 16 regular business meeting.

The commission awarded a $6.17 million bid to Gillette-based S&S Builders, LLC, for a project involving bridge rehabilitation, traffic control, paving and other work in various locations within Johnson, Laramie, Natrona and Niobrara Counties. The contracted completion date is October 15, 2024.

Afton-based Avail Valley Construction-WY, LLC, was awarded a $1.18 million bid for a project involving grading, seeding, erosion control, traffic control and other work on Wyoming Highway 351 in Sublette County. The contracted completion date is October 31, 2024.

A nearly $1.26 million bid was awarded to Cowley-based S&L Industrial for a project involving paving, concrete work, traffic control and other work at various locations within Albany, Big Horn, Campbell, Carbon, Crook, Fremont, Goshen, Johnson, Laramie, Natrona, Niobrara, Park, Platte, Sheridan, Sweetwater, Washakie and Weston Counties. The contracted completion date is October 31, 2023.

The commission awarded an $800,076 bid to Casper-based 71 Construction for a project involving grading, paving, seeding, erosion control and other work on Wyoming Highway 789 in Fremont County. The contracted completion date is November 30, 2023.

Also based in Casper, Modern Electric Co. was awarded an $180,310 bid for a project involving electrical work, traffic control and other work on Wyoming Highway 238 and US Highway 89 in Lincoln County. The contracted completion date is June 30, 2024.

All of this month’s awarded projects are primarily funded with federal dollars.

Almost all WYDOT projects are awarded to the lowest bid.

WHP K-9 assist law enforcement in finding Fentanyl

CHEYENNE – A Wyoming Highway Patrol K-9 handler was called to assist special agents with the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation March 9 near Evanston. The special agents had contacted an individual at a gas station and became suspicious of criminal activity.

The WHP trooper arrived and deployed his K-9 partner. The handler observed a positive, trained final response to the odor of drugs inside the vehicle. A vehicle search resulted in the trooper seizing 1,349 M30 Fentanyl pills, 3.89 pounds of methamphetamine, and a pistol.

The arrested subject was a convicted felon and was not allowed to have firearms. Agents believe these drugs were destined for communities within Wyoming.

This case marks the first significant Fentanyl seizure since the WHP K-9 teams were trained and certified on fentanyl at the end of February.

WHP offers incentives to new applicants

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Highway Patrol is offering new applicants a hiring incentive. If employment is initiated with the WHP by June 30, troopers will get paid 80 extra hours at the hourly hire rate after the first month. This limited-time incentive is only available to new hires and rehires.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol is the agency for those applicants looking for a rewarding and challenging career. Patrol has many positions in various areas, including law enforcement, communications, administration and technology. Excellent benefits and pay offered for all jobs.

To take advantage of the incentive, apply today for any current position openings by visiting www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wyoming and searching the keywords Highway Patrol.

WHP train additional K-9s to detect Fentanyl

CHEYENNE – The process of training canines to detect Fentanyl has been a long, careful, and deliberate one. In July 2022, The Wyoming Highway Patrol trained and certified Wyoming’s first fentanyl-detection canine. The safety and success of this pioneering effort have led the Wyoming Highway Patrol to expand this program to the rest of our narcotic detection canine handler teams.

We began this training with the safety of our canine officers and their handlers first and foremost. This has been an extensive process, requiring time and resources from many companies to ensure the process is safe. The results have been overwhelmingly positive, with no incidents occurring that have endangered our canine partners or handlers throughout this training process.

In early March, nine additional Wyo-

Total number of employees: As of March 7, 2023

1,781

One month ago

1,787 One year ago

1,819

ming Highway Patrol canine teams across Wyoming were trained and certified to detect Fentanyl. This is a significant milestone for the Wyoming Highway Patrol as they add these teams to their force.

Five of these trained canines were purchased using federal grant funds through the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program.

The Wyoming Highway Patrol now has ten Fentanyl-trained canine teams across the state to help assist our statewide effort to take this dangerous drug off our streets and out of our communities.

District 1

Work to begin on I-80 near Pine Bluffs

CHEYENNE – Crews with Simon Contractors and the Wyoming Department of Transportation will begin work on Interstate 80 near Pine Bluffs on April 10.

The project spans the interstate from mileposts 393.4 to 400.5, both east and westbound lanes.

Work will begin with concrete slab replacements and then move to asphalt paving operations later in the summer.

Motorists on the I-80 should expect possible delays due to single lane shifts through construction zones and lowered speed limit. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place for interstate traffic during this project.

The public is encouraged to obey all posted signs, signals, flaggers and other traffic control and avoid distractions like cell phones while driving through work zones.

Structure, paving work underway on WYO 223/ Terry Ranch Road

CHEYENNE – Crews with Reiman Corp. and the Wyoming Department of Transportation began structure and paving work on Wyoming 223/Terry Ranch Road on March 20.

WYO 223/Terry Ranch Road runs between Interstate 25 and US Highway 85 south of Cheyenne.

Work began with a total bridge replacement over the Union Pacific Railroad at milepost 0.86. The new structure will be longer to accommodate future

UPRR tracks and widened to accommodate 12 foot lanes and 4 foot shoulders. WYO 223/Terry Ranch Road was closed to through traffic for the duration of the bridge construction. Motorists needing to get to Interstate 25 will need to use detours on US 85 to either College Drive or I-80. A map of project detours is shown below.

Other work includes milling, asphalt pavement overlay and a chip seal. Approaches will receive a mill, overlay and fog seal. The I-25 service road running from WYO 223/Terry Ranch Road south to the Colorado border will receive a chip seal. Work will also include delineation replacements and sign upgrades.

All accesses to residences and businesses will remain open throughout the project. During paving operations, flaggers will be present to maintain traffic flow through the residential and business areas.

The work is scheduled to be completed by late 2023.

Preparations underway for Curtis Street Bridge replacement in Laramie

LARAMIE – Crews with Reiman Corp. and the Wyoming Department of Transportation began preparations for the Curtis Street Bridge replacement along Interstate 80 in Laramie.

The Curtis Street Bridge spans I-80 at milepost 310 and will be demolished and replaced this summer. Demolition is scheduled to take place on May 16.

Preparations for the demolition are currently underway along I-80. Preparations include removal of the cable rail, building crossovers, dirt work and other miscellaneous work.

Motorists on the interstate should expect possible delays due to single lane shifts through construction zones and

lowered speed limits. A 14-foot width restriction will be in place for interstate traffic during this project.

Power lines relocated over I-80 near Cheyenne

CHEYENNE – Travelers on Interstate 80 near Cheyenne experienced delays as Black Hills Energy utility company moved power lines over the Interstate on March 31.

The delays occurred at milepost 366.08, just east of Cheyenne near the Campstool Interchange. The temporary stoppages began the morning of March 24 and lasted no more than 10 minutes at a time.

Traffic control was in place, with Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers stopping traffic as power lines were moved across the interstate. Once the wire was across, traffic was allowed to flow freely. Drivers in the area encountered brief delays while the movement happened.

Multi-year bridge and paving work underway on I-80 in Cheyenne

CHEYENNE – Crews with Simon Contractors and the Wyoming Department of Transportation began a multiyear project along Interstate 80 on March 20.

The project started with a bridge rehabilitation at the Roundtop Interchange at milepost 357.66 in both east and west bound lanes, and ending at milepost 362.

This is a multi-year project split into two phases, starting with structure work and slab replacements with paving work to follow. The structure work and slab replacements are expected to be completed

Briefs continued on page 6

Photo: Google Earth

The Curtis Street bridge in Laramie is to be demolished May 16.

Photo: WYDOT

Briefs continued from page 5 by 2023. Paving operations for the project will resume in 2024, with an August 2024 completion date.

Motorists on the interstate should expect possible delays due to single lane shifts through construction zones and lowered speed limits. A 12-foot width restriction will be in place for interstate traffic during this project.

Concrete slab work near Burns/Carpenter I-80 interchange

CHEYENNE – Crews with S&S Builders and the Wyoming Department of Transportation began repair work on concrete slab March 6.

Work took place in the westbound lane of Interstate 80 at milepost 385.5 near the Burns/Carpenter interchange. Repair work is due to a crash that damaged the roadway last summer.

Heavy equipment producing loud noise is required to complete the work. Lane closures are expected.

Motorists encountered lane closures and reduced speed limits. The public were encouraged to obey all posted signs, signals, flaggers and other traffic control and avoid distractions like cell phones while driving through work zones.

This project had an expected completion date of two weeks.

Cheyenne pedestrian bridge reopens temporarily

CHEYENNE – The pedestrian bridge over Interstate 25 near McCormick Junior High School reopened in March. The bridge was temporarily closed on Feb. 6 due to concerns about the worsening condition of one of the concrete pillars.

Crews with Reiman Corp. and the Wyoming Department of Transportation worked quickly to design and install temporary shoring that ensured safe, unrestricted usage of the bridge for the remainder of the school year. Bishop Boulevard will also be fully reopened to traffic.

The pedestrian bridge will be closed again this summer for scheduled rehabilitation. More information about schedul-

ing will be released once details have been finalized.

District 3 Work continues on Green River Signal project

ROCK SPRINGS – The Wyoming Department of Transportation, along with contract crews from Casper Electric, continued work along Uinta Drive as part of the signal and intersection upgrade project. On March 29, crews installed the overhanging signal arms at the intersection of Uinta Drive and Riverview Drive and Astle Ave.

This work required traffic to be moved to one side of Uinta and placed in a single lane in each direction near the intersection. The traffic signals were shut down and the intersection was controlled by flaggers. These closures took place in the evening hours.

Local traffic was advised to avoid the area, if possible, but did encounter brief delays.

Similar work will take place on the intersection of 2nd Street and Uinta Drive and will be handled in a similar fashion in the first weeks of April.

Total number of highway fatalities: As of March 27, 2023

31

One year ago 18

as part of the signal and intersection upgrade project in District 3.

WYDOT initiates project for WYO 22 corridor

JACKSON – The Wyoming Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, in cooperation with the town of Jackson and Teton County, have initiated an environmental and design project on WYO 22. The WYO 22 Corridor Project extends from the Y-intersection with Broadway Avenue through Wilson.

This section of WYO 22 has the dubious distinction of being Wyoming’s

busiest and most congested two-lane highway. In 2014, WYDOT worked with Teton County and the Town of Jackson to complete a Planning and Environmental Linkages study for WYO 22 that also included WYO 390. The study, which involved considerable public and stakeholder engagement, established a vision for the two highways and an ‘implementation plan’ that prioritized different improvements. The highest priority identified –the Snake River Bridge replacement – is scheduled for construction starting spring of 2023. The WYO 22 Corridor project is part of WYDOT’s larger plan to implement recommendations from the PEL study, as funding allows.

WYDOT originally had planned to start the environmental and design project in 2026 but decided to advance the project to start sooner. Bob Hammond, WYDOT’s Resident Engineer, said that daily traffic on WYO 22 has increased by 20 percent over the last 10 years. He added that traffic growth during peak travel hours were even higher during this time frame, with approximately 30 percent growth in the morning peak hour and 17 percent in the evening peak hour.

Work continued along Uinta Drive

Photo: WYDOT

“I’m constantly receiving complaints about congestion on the highway, ranging from parents unable to pick up their kids from school to frustrated skiers on a powder day. One of my biggest concerns is our emergency providers not being able to quickly respond to calls because of congestion,” Hammond said.

Last September, after a competitive process, WYDOT awarded a contract to a consulting team to provide technical support for the project. Transportation needs and improvements to WYO 22 will be identified over the next year—working with an advisory committee comprised of stakeholders representing different interests. WYDOT will hold public meetings and provide various other ways for the public to offer their opinions.

Hammond commented that this project will examine multi-modal aspects, like pathway and transit improvements with the highway enhancements.

“WYDOT wants to improve mobility through the corridor,” Hammond said.

He added that this project will build off other studies and identify a corridor-wide approach to improving wildlife connections across the corridor.

“Wildlife mitigation is definitely a priority for us. This project provides a great opportunity for us to look broadly and implement the best measures, including fencing, underpasses, and/or overpasses, to help facilitate wildlife movements,” Hammond added.

This past fall, WYDOT leadership approached Teton County staff to discuss folding the County-led Tribal Trail project into the WYO 22 project. The County Commissioners held a workshop in December to discuss various scenarios for this merger and, on December 19th, sent a formal request to WYDOT to begin developing a cooperative agreement detailing this merger. On March 21st, the Commissioners voted to approve the agreement.

“Combining the two projects helps respond to comments from some members of the public that the Tribal Trail project should be analyzed along with the WYO 22 project,” Hammond said.

Over the next year, WYDOT will conduct various technical studies and public outreach—all geared toward honing in on the problems and solutions. This work will be used to support the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process

that WYDOT hopes to initiate in 2024. Timing for construction remains uncertain, as WYDOT does not currently have construction funds programmed in its 6-year State Transportation Improvement Plan. Hammond noted that with NEPA work going into 2025, any future project would not be planned for construction until 2028 at the earliest.

Project information is available on the project website: www.WY22corridor.com.

Snow plow rear-ended on I-80 west of Rock Springs

ROCK SPRINGS – On the morning of March 5, the Wyoming Highway Patrol was notified of a snowplow collision. A WYDOT snowplow was removing snow from the roadway near milepost 125 on Interstate 80 when it was hit by a commercial vehicle. The commercial truck driver was trying to pass another car in the left lane and collided with the back of the snowplow, causing both vehicles to enter the median. The snowplow driver was transported to Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County with minor injuries from the crash.

The commercial truck driver was issued a citation for speeding too fast for the conditions and careless driving.

So far this winter, WYDOT has had 22 of its snowplows hit. A total of 18 plows were struck in the winter of 2021/2022, 26 in 2020/2021, and 23 in 2019/2020.

District 4

WYDOT begins work on Sheridan’s Main Street

SHERIDAN – The Wyoming Department of Transportation will begin work on the Downtown Sheridan Main Street project on Monday, April 3.

Oftedal Construction will close the intersection of Main Street and Dow Street to begin the resurfacing and utility upgrade project. This is the first phase of five that will be completed this construction season.

The traveling public who use the Dow Street intersection will be detoured to 1st Street, Mandel Street, Alger Street, Brooks Street or Gould Streets during this time. This intersection is expected to be closed until late May.

WYDOT will be hosting weekly public meetings beginning April 12 at 1:30 p.m. at the ERA/Carroll Realty second floor conference room located at 306 N. Main Street. The public is encouraged to attend if they are interested in the progress of the project.

In addition, information will be available via social media outlets and websites:

• Facebook and Instagram: Sheridan Main Street Project

• https://www.sheridanwy.gov/ government/public_works/ engineering/projects

• https://sheridanmedia.com/

Briefs continued on page 8

An aerial view of a commuter-filled WYO 22.

Photo: WYDOT

A commercial truck struck a WYDOT plow while it was clearing snow from the left-hand lane of westbound I-80 near Rock Springs.

Photo: WHP

WYDOT reminds citizens to apply for forage permits

SHERIDAN – The Wyoming Department of Transportation reminds citizens wishing to harvest hay from the state rights-of-way must first obtain a forage permit from WYDOT.

The forage permit allows permit holders to mow and collect the forage free of charge through Oct. 1.

Adjacent landowners to WYDOT’s rights-of-way have until April 1 to file for a forage permit, after that permits will be issued on a first come, first served basis. All permit applications are scrutinized closely for right-of-way field conditions and requirements before a permit is issued. The permittee is required to obtain and show proof of liability insurance coverage.

Offering the public the opportunity to apply for a forage permit allows farmers and ranchers to obtain free livestock forage. It also creates a beneficial relationship that reduces costs to maintain the public roads and provides free forage for agricultural operations.

Removal of tall grasses and other plants from the rights-of-way is a safety issue as well as an appearance issue. Wildlife and other animals often move to highways when other food sources become scarce. This results in animals being struck by vehicles. Predators and scavengers then inhabit these areas and are involved in other vehicle/wildlife crashes.

Tall vegetation along highways also presents fire danger. Fires can be started by motorists discarding burning cigarettes or vehicles with faulty exhaust systems or brakes. Fires in proximity to highways can also jump across roadways and impact adjacent property.

Persons wishing to obtain a forage permit are urged to contact WYDOT maintenance offices in Sheridan, Buffalo, Gillette, Moorcroft, Wright, Hulett, Sundance and Newcastle.

Downtown Sheridan Main Street resurfacing, utility upgrade project

SHERIDAN – The long awaited resurfacing and utility upgrade project of Sheridan’s downtown Main Street is a month out.

In December 2022, the Wyoming Department of Transportation Commission awarded Oftedal Inc. a $17.8 million contract to resurface Sheridan’s Main Street from 1st Street to the Burkitt/ Coffeen Avenue intersection. This award also includes a utility upgrade component valued at $8.4 million which is funded by the City of Sheridan.

A public meeting was held March 7, to hear more about the details of the closure sequence and detours.

Phase I will run from Dow Street to Brundage Street. Phase II, which runs from Brundage Street to Coffeen Avenue will be completed in 2024. This schedule is dependent on weather, materials and unforeseen circumstances and is subject to change.

Main Street was originally paved in 1970. In 2003, Main Street from Dow Street to Brooks Street/Coffeen Avenue was upgraded. Those upgrades included diamond grinding the concrete surfacing, installation of new curb and gutter, and sidewalks, street-scape enhancements and decorative lighting as well as selective safety improvements such as bulb-out curb and gutter to allow pedestrians and drivers better visibility while also providing a decreased pedestrian crossing distance.

WYDOT opted to partner with the City of Sheridan and delay the planned resurfacing of the roadway at that time due to the City’s funding constraints and inability to combine underground utility upgrades.

This project will be completed over two years in two phases.

Lighting system upgrades underway at Diversion

Dam Rest Area

RIVERTON – A $292,000 project is underway to upgrade overhead lighting at Diversion Dam Rest Area, 38 miles west of Riverton on US Highway 26/287.

The project includes the replacement of 16 overhead lights and poles with newer and more cost-efficient LED luminaries and poles. New concrete bases and wiring will also be installed, along with new electric service points.

Motorists using the rest area should expect construction between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., five to six days a week.

“During this time, motorists will encounter workers and equipment in the rest area,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation project engineer Douglas Etsinger of Riverton.

“The rest area will remain open during the upgrades, and lighting will be maintained. A 2-day shutdown is expected when the old lights are phased out and the new ones are made operational,” Etsinger said.

The project has a completion date of Oct. 31, 2023.

Highway settlement repairs start on US 14/16/20 west of Cody

CODY – A 5.28-mile highway settlement repair project began the week of Feb. 26 west of Cody, adjacent to Buffalo Bill Reservoir.

The $5.9 million project is located on US Highway 14/16/20 between Trout Creek (milepost 36.41) and Buffalo Bill State Park Campground and Boat Launch (milepost 41.69).

Project work includes settlement repair at four locations, rotomilling of existing asphalt pavement surfacing, placing 2-inches of pavement overlay, chip sealing, minor slope flattening and other work.

Prime contractor is Mountain Construction Co., of Lovell.

All work, except reclamation and other work, is required to be complete by Aug. 31.

A rancher cutting grass in the state’s right-of-way in June 2022.

Photo: WYDOT

“The contractor started work this week on the settlement areas, and all work is dependent upon favorable weather,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer Todd Frost of Cody.

Motorists should expect a maximum cumulative delay of up to 15 minutes during all work on the project, and there will be a 12-foot width restriction on the project.

With settlement repairs beginning at four locations, Frost said traffic is being narrowed to one lane and is controlled by temporary traffic signals or flaggers, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with reduced speeds of 20 mph.

“There will be a gravel surface during this work, and one settlement area will be worked on at a time,” Frost said. “Dirt work will be completed to a full width gravel surface, and normal two-way traffic will be returned to that area before starting work on the next settlement area.”

Motorists should expect a 2-minute delay during non-working hours at these four settlement locations.

“Milling of the remainder of the project and paving are tentatively scheduled toward the end of May,” Frost said. “Chip sealing is tentatively scheduled in midJune.”

Frost said motorists can expect a paved

driving surface during shoulder flattening, paving and chip sealing. Traffic will be controlled with pilot vehicles and flaggers during pavement milling, shoulder flattening, paving and chip sealing.

Pipe work kicks off WYO 294 project near Ralston

RIVERTON – A $5.6 million pavement improvement project began on Wyoming Highway 294 (Badger Basin Road) near Ralston.

The project includes rotomilling of existing pavement surfacing, a 2-inch asphalt pavement overlay, chip sealing, minor slope flattening, guardrail replacement, and other work on 9.84 miles of WYO 294.

Project work starts at the intersection of US Highway 14A and WYO 294, south of Ralston, and extends 9.84 miles northwest to milepost 9.84 on WYO 294.

Prime contractor is Mountain Construction Co., of Lovell.

All work, with the exception of chip sealing, is required to be completed by Oct. 31. Chip sealing is scheduled in June 2024.

“The contractor started work on pipes Feb. 28, and all work is weather permitting,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer Todd

Frost of Cody. “Motorists will see reduced construction speed limits of 45 mph and shoulder work at isolated locations throughout the project for pipe work.”

Frost said guardrail replacement near the WYO 294/US 14A intersection this spring will require a one-lane roadway, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, during work with a reduced speed limit of 20 mph, and there will be a 12-foot width restriction.

“Traffic will be controlled during working hours with flaggers, and after hours, with a temporary traffic signal,” Frost said. “Delays for this work will be about 10 minutes for the guardrail replacement area.”

Motorists should expect a paved surface and short delays during the guardrail and pipe work. Frost said pipe work and guardrail replacement are scheduled for completion by April 15.

Delays are expected on US 14A during guardrail work at the WYO 294/US 14A intersection.

Shoulder flattening, asphalt pavement milling and paving are tentatively scheduled to begin Aug. 1.

“During shoulder flattening, paving and chip sealing, motorists should expect delays of up to 20 minutes,” Frost said. “Traffic will be controlled with a pilot vehicle during this work.”

New Interim Director announced

Darin Westby appointed to lead WYDOT

By Mark Horan, with contributions from the Wyoming Governor’s Office and the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources

On March 24, the Wyoming Governor’s Office announced that Darin J. Westby was appointed Interim Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation.

Westby was one of five names submitted to the Governor from the Wyoming Transportation Commission to fill the position following the retirement of Luke Reiner.

Previously, Westby was the Director of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources, a position he held since 2016 after serving 15 years with the agency and 18 years in State government.

He has more than 28 years of experience in the environmental, architectural, engineering, construction and management fields. Westby earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Wyoming and holds a civil professional engineering license and a certificate in public management.

“After interviewing all five candidates, it was clear that each was well-suited to lead this important agency,” Governor Gordon said. “Darin’s background in state government, his experience as a professional engineer and with contracting, and his previous work managing a complex state agency complete with law-en-

forcement personnel, made him the ideal candidate for this critical interim position.”

“I am honored to be nominated by the Transportation Commission and appointed by the Governor to fill the interim director position,” Westby said. “I am excited to work with all of the agency’s commissions, programs and employees to further the mission of supporting Wyoming’s economy by providing a safe and effective transportation system.”

In addition to his work with the state, Westby has served on numerous community service boards including the Cheyenne Building Code Board of Appeals. He has also served for over 25 years as a volunteer for Cheyenne Frontier Days, known as the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo and Western Celebration. In that capacity he’s held positions as Committee Chairman (Executive Vice President) and General Chairman (Chief Operating Officer).

As Interim Director, Westby will be responsible for overseeing Wyoming’s largest agency, with roughly 2,000 employees.

In an email to WYDOT staff Westby introduced himself and said his first day on the job was a bit of a whirlwind.

“I got the first day under my belt and it definitely felt like I was drinking from the fire hose,” Westby told his new employees. “Thanks for what you do for the agency and the state. I’m looking forward to meeting all of you in the coming weeks.”

Westby will serve as Interim Director while the Wyoming Transportation Commission conducts a search for a permanent director.

WYDOT HQ hosts pop-up career fair

By Jordan Achs

Despite Mother Nature’s best efforts to scare folks away with some falling snow, the pop-up career fair hosted by Human Resources and the Wyoming Department of Transportation at the headquarters lobby in Cheyenne was successful. There was a steady stream of interested job seekers; of the 39 who signed in when they arrived to the fair, 20 have submitted applications.

A variety of WYDOT programs and job fields were available to talk to potential applicants during the fair, including WHP, dispatch, engineers, telecommunications, District maintenance and equipment and more. Current employees answered questions and explained why they enjoy working for WYDOT.

Human Resources representatives were also present with laptops and other equipment to help attendees apply for a job on site if they were interested.

Know someone interested in working for WYDOT? Don’t forget about a few hiring incentives going on right now:

• Referral bonus: For every applicant that starts employment with any State of Wyoming agency, and puts your name as a referring employee, you will receive $250 on your check following the month of hire.

• New hire bonus: For a limited time, new hires and rehires will qualify for eighty (80) additional hours of incentive pay at the hourly rate of hire. This incentive pay would be paid out at

the end of the successful candidate’s first month of employment. The person must begin employment before June 30, 2023 to qualify.

Anyone with questions about the above incentives can reach out to HQ Human Resources at 777-4467 or your local district representative.

talks to a prospective employee about working for WYDOT during the pop-up career fair at headquarters at the end of March.

Westby

Highway Development program manager Christina Spindler, right,

Photo: WYDOT

WHP Sgt. Jeremy Beck, left, talks with a prospective applicant during the headquarters pop-up career fair.

Photo: WYDOT

Noteworthy

WYDOT guardian angel

On Sunday, February 26, Sheridan Maintenance Foreman Andrew Conrad was returning from Rawlins in the transport hauling the Kodiak rotary blower that had been sent south to help out with plowing operations in the Rawlins area. He was northbound on Wyoming Highway 220, which was closed at the time with a WAT in place, about 25 miles south of Casper when he noticed a vehicle was off the roadway.

As he approached, he noticed the vehicle was on the driver’s side which indicated it had rolled over 3/4 of a turn. As he stopped next to the vehicle, he noticed there was exhaust coming from the vehicle’s tailpipe which was pointed toward the sky.

Andrew hurried to the windshield of the vehicle which was shattered and

found a lady and her daughter still inside. They said they were “OK” although it was obvious they were quite shaken by their ride. He radioed TMC with his location and description of the incident. A sheriff’s deputy arrived on scene within minutes. They were able to open the rear hatchback area on the vehicle at which time the two occupants exited.

The mother sat with the deputy and the daughter sat in the transport with Conrad until an ambulance arrived.

It should be noted that the female driver did get proper authorization to be on that section of highway, although the authorization did not keep her safe while driving on the closed road.

WYDOT Maintenance Foreman Andrew Conrad came upon this rolled vehicle and stopped to help.

Photo: WYDOT

Adrianne Balcom forwarded the above gem of a tourism handout to the Public Affairs Office after she found it cleaning out her mom’s house. She thought the Department would like to have it. It’s seen a bit of wear, but it is a fun reminder of days gone by.

PSCC PSCC Quarterly Update

By Emergency Communications, edited by Mark Horan

Meeting Held in February

The Public Safety Communications Commission met on February 8 for its first quarterly business meeting of 2023. The commission received updates from the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s Emergency Communications Program, approved WyoLink applications, and developed strategies regarding WYDOT’s and the State of Wyoming’s mission-critical and emergency communication systems.

Current Projects and system upgrades underway

Legislative Update

Governor Gordon signed HB0001/HEA No. 37 on February 24, which will provide general funds for the operations and maintenance of WyoLink.

New Program Manager

At the PSCC’s last quarterly business meeting, Mark Kelly was introduced as the WYDOT Emergency Communications Program Manager. Mark has been in the Emergency Communications industry for 30 years, the last 16 with WYDOT as a communication technician and supervisor.

“I look forward to working with everyone as the Emergency Communications Program Manager, and to continue the level of customer service that the program provides across WYDOT and to all of our customers,” Kelly said.

American Rescue Plan Act Funding Awards

Local Agency ARPA funding awards have been announced, which can be used to purchase of WyoLink-compatible equipment. Equipment ordering is now underway for local agencies. This has been a collaborative effort with members from the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security’s Senior Advisory Committee, the PSCC, and WYDOT’s Emergency Communications Program. One-hundred-sixteen applications were received totaling almost $19 million dollars in request, for a total award allocation of $4.5 million in funds. The hard work and time put in by these individuals is greatly appreciated and will benefit many first responding agencies across Wyoming.

PSCC Workgroups

Upon the recommendation of WYDOT, efforts are underway to begin drafting a plan to develop PSCC working groups, which would focus on WyoLink and Next Generation 911. The details for the working groups will be forthcoming in the plan. Bringing together subject matter experts from across Wyoming will provide many benefits to the PSCC on these two very important topics.

System Upgrades

WyoLink system upgrades include the replacement of outdated and end-of-life equipment:

• GTR Base Repeater replacement, 30 sites upgraded last year. WyoLink has 76 VHF radio sites; 41 of those are now using the new GTR repeaters and 35 are still on the old Quantars.

• Site expansion, additional channels to be added to accommodate high usage. Five of the seven sites adding channels have been completed. Copper Mountain and Lander remain.

• Two new additional tower sites – Northern Sheridan County and Saratoga.

• Dynamic System Resilience; adding redundancy and reliability to the system. This is dependent on the replacement project and a system upgrade.

• Microwave system upgrades. Twenty sites are getting powerful microwave routers, all of those sites have been installed. We are planning to activate and optimize them.

• New mobile and portable radios for WYDOT. Emergency Communications have begun installing new radios in Districts 2, 4 and 5.

• WHP is currently testing new radios, which includes a repeater to allow for greater operational range on portable (handheld) radios. Four units are currently being installed by the contractor; after field testing and approval, 75 radios, for Districts 3 and 5, will be scheduled for installation in Rock Springs and Thermopolis.

• Inter-Subsystem interconnection – Critical Connect. This will allow for the WyoLink system to be inter-connected with other neighboring state radio systems as well as cellular networks. It will be an agnostic connection to cellular providers and will allow for WyoLink users to communicate with cellular devices and vise-versa. Critical Connect will expand coverage and usage for mission-critical communication in the state of Wyoming. The initial functionality testing has taken place successfully. The WyoLink Office is currently working with cellular providers and the State of Montana to provide operational interoperability.

During the February 8 meeting, Verizon presented its Verizon Frontline product which is similar to First Net’s product that allows group push-to-talk to first responders with priority and preemption across their network.

• Smart Connect.

This allows Motorola APX radios already on WyoLink to connect and operate via LTE or Wi-fi when radios go out of range of a WyoLink site. Smart Connect will allow users an alternate communications path through WyoLink, helping ensure critical traffic gets to the user. This could be a more cost effective solution in many locations such as schools, government buildings and basements.

The Cheyenne Police Department has successfully been using

Kelly

this feature for several months, and WHP Division O has started to use this as well. The feature provides a great benefit when operating outside of Wyoming.

*Critical and Smart connect provides an additional method for interoperable communications for multiple agencies. WyoLink is the platform that allows these technologies to converge.

brought forward that some of the telephone companies providing cell service in the state are not meeting the Federal Communications Enhanced 911 requirements by providing calls to the Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in the State of Wyoming as required.

The FCC E911 requirements for Phase 1 and Phase 2 calling data:

Phase 1: Requires that a phone number must be displayed with each wireless 911 call, allowing the PSAP operator to call back if the call is disconnected, as well as the location of the cell tower associated with the caller.

Phase 2: Requires carriers to deliver more specific latitude and longitude location information, which must be accurate to within 164 to 984 feet (50-300 meters) of the caller.

A brief snapshot survey, with a limited number of PSAPs across Wyoming resulted in discovering a need to inform and work with wireless carriers to expand Phase 2 capability and compliance.

The top 20 talkgroups were predominantly law enforcement spread across the state.

System Statistics

System usage shows the first fiscal quarter statistics. They show some seasonal changes but are consistent with previous yearly and monthly statistics.

Next Generation 911 Update

State workgroups are meeting to discuss our planned initiatives of NG911 Projects from the State NG911 plan relevant to each topic. The Geographical Information Systems Workgroup is working on a draft of best practices and model data documents. The Technology Workgroup is working to provide input on the NG911 2023 Survey for Public Safety Answering Points in Wyoming, which were sent to the PSAPs March 1 for responses by May 1.

Representatives from NG911 workgroups (Rick Hawkins from Sweetwater County, and Steve Morgan from Albany County), along with staff from the Emergency Communications Program, presented topics during a meeting with the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs & Chiefs of Police on February 3 in Cheyenne. This was a great opportunity to educate, and answer questions from stakeholders about the status and planning for 911 across Wyoming.

Technology is changing the way that we access 911. Nationally, 85 percent of all calls coming into a PSAP are through wireless services (Cell Phones) and Wyoming sits right about that average, which can present some challenges.

The Wyoming Association of Public Safety Communication Officials and members of the National Emergency Number Association informed the PSCC that there have been concerns

WYOLINK 16 Site Expansion Project Status

In 2018, WYDOT secured $16 million in Federal Highway Administration funds for enhanced build-out expansion of 16 tower sites. All tower development and design will follow the FHWA construction requirements. WyoLink end user experience, coverage testing, and overall benefit to WyoLink were factors used to determine the site locations, and priorities for improved coverage.

The following represents a brief update on the status and noteworthy accomplishments for each site location into the month February 2023.

• Buffalo: Site active (3/24/20) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Orin Junction: Site active (4/20/20) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Wright: Site active (6/26/20) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Jackson: Site active (announced 1/11/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Greybull: Site active (announced 1/11/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

PSCC continued on page 12

PSCC continued from page 11

• Lusk: Site active (announced 4/21/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots

• Alcova: Site active (announced 4/21/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Alva: Site active (announced 6/3/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Rock Springs (Blairtown-Tank Hill): Site active (announced 10/8/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

• Rock Springs (14 Mile Hill): Site active (announced 10/8/21) with reported coverage improvements in previous known trouble spots.

Training

• Ten Sleep (Meadowlark): Construction resumed 7/21/22 and is underway throughout summer. Shelter and generator delays will affect site turn-up. Generator on-site, shelter construction continues.

• Northern Goshen County: Working on commercial backhaul provider installation with Enterprise Technology Services, then site testing.

• Newcastle: On hold until access opens.

• Evanston: Site under testing.

• North Big Horn County (Little Sheep Mtn.): On hold until access opens. Fiber being installed to the site. Tower equipment issue needing to be addressed.

• Bondurant: On hold until access opens.

WYDOT’s tuition reimbursement policy

Are you up to speed on WYDOT’s recently updated tuition reimbursement policy? Eligible employees can be reimbursed up to 75 percent of the cost of eligible employee-requested external courses offered by accredited universities, community colleges, and technical training schools, with a limit of $5,250 per employee per calendar year. This is a great opportunity for WYDOT employees to learn new skills and make progress towards their educational and professional goals.

The application for fall classes (starting between August-December 31, 2023) is May 1, 2023, so there’s still time to apply using the following process:

1. Talk to your supervisor about your educational and career goals. Discuss the skills you’d like to develop and explain how this additional education or training will benefit you in your position at WYDOT.

2. Create an online Education Plan for upcoming courses and include it with the online Tuition Reimbursement Application (Form PER-4). Both forms can be found on the Training Services Intranet Page.

3. Submit your online Tuition Reimbursement Application (Form PER-4) BEFORE the course(s) enrollment date(s) so you know if you’ve been approved. Only applications for the present enrollment period will be accepted.

4. The online application will automatically route to your supervisor, who will review your application and upon approval, will continue to the tuition reimbursement administrator.

When your application is received, the tuition reimbursement administrator will verify your application for completeness, follow-up with your supervisor, if necessary, and send your application to the Tuition Reimbursement Committee (TRC) for review. The TRC meets twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring, and will review each application individually. They will take the following into consideration:

1. your most recent PMI;

2. the nature and purpose(s) of the course(s) you selected;

3. potential benefits to WYDOT as a result of your training;

4. potential time or productivity loss as a result of your participation in the training; and

5. your performance in any course(s) for which you have been previously reimbursed.

Applicants and their supervisors will be notified after the TRC has made their selections from the applicants.

After completion of the training, you must submit to the tuition reimbursement administrator documentation of completion and achievement of at least a C grade (or equivalent) or a “pass” in a pass/fail course within 60 calendar days of the course’s completion. You must also provide an itemized billing statement and proof of payment from the provider for the reimbursable costs. Your reimbursement will appear on your paycheck following the process.

Do you need external training to help you reach your educational and professional goals? Check out WYDOT’s Tuition Reimbursement program on the Training Services Intranet page.

Training@aGlance

Training@aGlance

*All new supervisors are assigned the WY Supervise Learning Plan and should register for one of the Cohort groups in the WELL

Are you interested in improving your professional and personal communication skills through public speaking?

Bring your lunch and bring a friend to see how you can:

• Improve your confidence and public speaking skills

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON

• Build your leadership skills and increase your networking opportunities

• Receive feedback in a supportive environment

• Practice writing and giving speeches

• Access a mentor

You will have access to all this and more for less than $10.00 a month. Roadmasters Toastmasters invites you to join us for our lunchtime meetings held every Monday at the WYDOT Training Complex, building 6568, from 12:05-12:55 p.m.

If you are a seasoned speaker who is interested in sharing your knowledge and experience with others, consider being a Roadmasters’ Toastmasters Club Mentor. Interested but live outside of Cheyenne? Check out Toastmasters International at www.toastmasters.org for a club location and time that works for you.

For additional information: Brian Rentner, brian.rentner@wyo.gov; Cliff Spoonemore, cliff.spoonemore@wyo.gov; or Tiffanie Young, tiffanie.young@wyo.gov.

Game & Fish

Cold temperatures, deep snow taking a toll on Wyoming wildlife

Breanna Ball, Wyoming Game & Fish

Much of Wyoming is experiencing an increase in snowfall and extremely cold temperatures this winter. Wildlife managers across the state are actively monitoring the impact on big game and are seeing increased mortality in some areas of the state.

“Wyoming is used to tough winters, but it has been a while since we have had a winter where severe conditions were so widespread across the state,” said Doug Brimeyer, Wyoming Game and Fish Department deputy chief of wildlife. “Wildlife managers throughout the state are acutely aware of the effects winter is having on big game populations.”

Harsh winters are not uncommon in the West. Wyoming’s big game have faced difficult winter conditions in the past, most recently in 2017. Game and Fish wildlife managers will incorporate winter severity and mortality as they formulate hunting season recommendations for the 2023 seasons.

“Game and Fish has a proven track record of adaptively managing the state’s wildlife through setting hunting seasons that take into account the challenging conditions wildlife face in the winter,” Brimeyer said. “The public is encouraged to attend their regional season setting meetings to learn more about winter loss in their areas.”

At this time, one of the biggest concerns is with public safety as some big game herds cross roads and highways as they move to lower elevations and habitats in search of forage. Research shows that slowing down by just 5 miles per hour can greatly increase a driver’s reaction time to avoid a wildlife-vehicle collision.

Across the state reports detail early-winter impacts on big game, but much of the winter season’s outcome still remains to be seen. Wildlife managers will have a better understanding of winter impacts and mortality in the coming months.

Casper Region

The Casper Region is experiencing moderate winter conditions in the northeastern portion of the region in Thunder Basin and the Black Hills. In these areas deer and pronghorn populations will likely experience normal winter survival as snowpack and temperatures have been moderate. However, much of the rest of the region is experiencing relatively harsh winter conditions. Areas around Lusk, Pine Ridge north of Casper/Glenrock, northern Laramie Range, southern Bighorns, Rattlesnakes and low-elevation basin areas are experiencing heavier than normal snowpack. Unlike most winters in the Casper Region, snow has persisted on the landscape for the past three months, with the exception of some wind-blown areas.

In particular, mule deer and pronghorn in the Casper and Glenrock areas have the highest potential for above-normal winter mortality, but this will depend on how the March weather unfolds. Currently, it appears collared deer and pronghorn are experiencing normal winter survival south of Casper in the Bates Hole area despite higher-than-normal snowpack and prolonged cold temperatures. While the Casper Region still expects some-

what higher than normal deer and pronghorn losses in some areas, this will heavily depend on weather conditions throughout March and early April.

Cody Region

Winter severity varies widely in the Big Horn Basin, with conditions milder in the north and more persistent snow cover occurring in the southern portion of the basin. On the west slope of the Bighorns conditions have been colder and snowier than average and lower-elevation winter ranges have been covered in snow since early winter. South-facing slopes are slowly beginning to open up, but this is only true of areas below 7,000 feet. Despite the persistent snow and cold snaps, mule deer survival has been relatively good so far in the Worland and Greybull districts. However, wildlife managers expect to see deer mortality peak in April and May, as it has in previous years.

The northern portion of the Big Horn Basin has experienced a relatively mild winter, with the winter range experiencing periodic sub-zero temperatures and low levels of snowfall. Game and Fish biologists anticipate deer survival could be higher than normal if the area does not receive high amounts of spring snow.

Green River Region

An early onset of winter coupled with continuous snow storms and below-zero temperatures has resulted in severe winter conditions in most of the Green River Region. Snow depths range from 1 to 3 feet deep across lower elevations with some snow drifts several feet in depth. The Red Desert area has been hit extremely hard with heavy snow and wind resulting in deep, crusted and drifted snow. Big game in this area are moving long distances in search of food and relief from the deep snow. As a result, many big game animals have died and wildlife managers expect winter mortality to continue for the next few weeks. The movement of big game animals to more accessible habitats has been especially evident with elk in places where they haven’t been seen in many years. Due to the increase in damage by the elk and the risk of co-mingling with livestock, Game and Fish officials have initiated emergency supplemental elk feedings in the Cokeville and Kemmerer areas.

Photo: WYDOT

Jackson/Pinedale Regions

These regions experienced an early onset of winter beginning in late October with about average snowfall to date in the mountains, but above-average snow levels on lower-elevation winter ranges and consistently colder than normal temperatures. Wildlife managers can access near real-time mortality information through GPS-collared animals, which are currently showing greater than 50 percent mortality of collared mule deer fawns in the Wyoming Range herd, and currently average mortality of collared adults in the Sublette and Wyoming Range deer herds. Juvenile mortality typically averages about 25 percent in these herds. When inspected nearly all of the mortalities were found to have gelatinous bone marrow signifying malnutrition. By all accounts, managers are expecting to see above-average mortality for both mule deer and pronghorn. However, an accurate assessment of loss won’t be known until later this spring as many animals, particularly adults, won’t succumb to winter until April or May.

The larger ungulates such as elk and moose aren’t typically as affected by winter compared to pronghorn and mule deer, and will likely experience average mortality. However, wildlife managers are responding to an increased number of elk causing damage on private lands as they seek forage at livestock feeding operations. Due to the increase in damage by the elk and the risk of co-mingling with livestock, Game and Fish officials have initiated emergency supplemental elk feeding in Star Valley.

Lander Region

Winter severity throughout most of the Lander Region has been extreme, with sub-zero temperatures, high winds and record snowfall producing deep-crusted snow cover across the region. The exception is the Dubois area where the winter is not as severe. The winters of 1983 and 1992 are memorable as far as severity, and this winter is at a minimum on par with those years — if not worse. The Rawlins area is, by some data sets and accounts, worse than the winter of 1949 with regard to snow accumulation and cold temperatures.

To help illustrate the impact winter conditions are having on wildlife, 33 adult doe pronghorn in the Red Desert herd were still collared and alive at the end of December 2022. Movements recorded from these animals show extreme migrations, often outside the herd unit. During the past eight weeks of severe weather and deep snowfall, 14 of these 33 collared, adult does have died. Wildlife biologists are expecting more pronghorn to succumb to starvation and exposure. In addition, wildlife biologists are responding to calls concerning dead elk that have been hit on the interstate and railroad corridors as they try to move to more accessible habitats.

Laramie Region

Winter severity throughout the Laramie Region is variable depending on location and timing of winter storm events. Winter conditions in the Laramie Valley are minimal and the east slopes of the Snowy Range are at average snow levels. North-facing slopes contain forage and many east and south-facing slopes are mostly open. Snow conditions in the Laramie Mountains are average to above-average. Wind events have opened up slopes to allow ungulates to browse and eat critical shrub species needed to meet their dietary needs for survival. The majority of winter

loss in this area has been juvenile deer.

Winter conditions in the Platte Valley are average to severe. The western slopes of the Snowy Range and the entire Sierra Madre Range have well above-average snow levels. Above-average snowpack levels will be crucial for spring runoff and increased plant production necessary to meet the dietary needs for lactating ungulates.

Sheridan Region

Overall, winter conditions in the Sheridan Region are more severe this year than in the past several. Near Kaycee and Buffalo there are open slopes where snow has melted on warm days, but most of the region is experiencing persistent snow cover. In most areas of the region, significant snow cover has been in place since November, particularly east of Sheridan and Buffalo. Snow water equivalents in the Tongue and Powder river drainages at the end of February were 118 percent of the median amount.

The deep and hard-crusted snow in this region makes it difficult for animals to dig through. Wildlife biologists and game wardens have started receiving calls from concerned members of the public and landowners reporting dead animals, particularly fawn deer, along with animals that are alive but are weak and in poor body condition.

The Remaining Winter

Game and Fish wildlife managers will continue monitoring winter conditions across the state. Wildlife managers encourage the public to help wintering wildlife by:

• Avoid disturbing wildlife during this critical time. During the winter wildlife survive on a diet lower in nutrition and will migrate to lower elevations where the habitat is better, more available and contains less disturbance to avoid burning unnecessary calories.

• Resist the urge to feed wildlife to help them through the winter. It is natural for people to feel compassion for struggling wildlife, but feeding can result in increased disease transmission and do more harm than good. Deer in particular have specialized digestive systems that are not adapted to hay, apples or corn.

• Leaving gates open where possible to allow unimpaired movement of animals across the landscape, especially along roadways, may reduce potential wildlife-vehicle collisions. This also can help reduce damage to fences and prevent animals from getting entangled and dying. Many landowners have modified their fences to make them more wildlife-friendly by replacing the bottom wire with a smooth wire and lowering the top wire or adding a pole to the top.

• Avoid snowmobiling or recreating on low-elevation winter ranges. Opt for the high country with deeper snow where animals are less likely to be found.

• Motorists should plan to drive slower and pay close attention to animals along our roadways. Wildlife-vehicle collisions occur at a higher rate during the winter months. Research has shown that slowing down, even just five miles per hour, can greatly increase a driver’s reaction time to avoid a collision. This is especially important at dawn and dusk when animals are more active and harder to see.

District News

Headquarters

Welcome

Samantha Brown, Patrol-Support Services-Dispatch; Ismael Gallegos, Driver Services-Laramie; Charles Glaser, Patrol-Support ServicesDispatch; Melony Hodgeman, Fuel TaxAdministration; David Hood, Financial Services-General Ledger; Aspen Joiner, Highway Development-Administration; Beau Kelley, Geology; Caylee King, Port of Entry-Cheyenne I-25; Patricia Rock, Fuel Tax-Administration; Erik Wagner, Bridge-Operations Inspection; and Forrest Zwieg, Highway DevelopmentPhotogrammetry/Survey.

Services-Administration; Brent Burgess, Planning-Counter Shop; Kyle Creswell, Materials-Pavement Management System; William Earnest, Patrol-Capitol Services Protection; Denis Girardin III, GIS/ITS; Troy Grandpre, Highway Development-Project Development; Tommy Kennedy, Patrol-Capitol Services Protection; Benjamin Kiel, Patrol-Capitol Services Protection; Daniel Kindsvater, Emergency Communications-WyoLink; Jana Molland, Motor Vehicle ServicesRegistration/Title WYDOT Headquarters; Jennifer Nordwick, Highway Development-Project Development.

Service Awards

Bryan Wenger, EquipmentAdministration – 30 years; Chelsey Lindsay, Budget – 15 years; Melissa Palka, Construction Staff – 5 years.

Promotions and Transfers

Colton

Archuleta, Driver Services-CheyenneAdministration; Mia Belving, Procurement

Retirements

Cristy Bigelow, senior accountant in Cheyenne, retired in February with 11 years of service to the state, including about five and a half years with WYDOT.

Gerald Collicott, fabricator at the Rigging shop at WYDOT headquarters, retired in February after 20 years of service with the state.

Collicott first started with the mechanic shop in Cheyenne.

After 29 years of service to the state, project engineer Paul Smith with WYDOT project development

in Cheyenne retired in February.

Smith first started with WYDOT as a planning/inventory engineer technician and also spent time as a design engineer for project development.

He graduated from the University of Wyoming’s College of Engineering and even spent time working for UW as a lab technician and as a graduate assistant and researcher.

Cheyenne man represented Wyoming in tri-state contest

On Saturday March 18, Cliff Spoonemore, of Cheyenne, took first place in the Toastmasters District 26 Northern Division

Table Topics contest. In this contest he was pitted against other toastmasters from around the state and western Nebraska. All were given the same topic and required to deliver a 1-2 minute speech on the subject of “Is it better to be Loved or to Love others?”

Spoonemore was judged to have given the best speech and will represent the Northern Division of District 26 which encompasses all of Wyoming except Uinta, Lincoln and Teton counties and the Nebraska panhandle. He will compete against the rest of the District at the District 26 spring conference to be held in Breckenridge on April 29.

Spoonemore is a member of Roadmasters Toastmasters who meet at the Wyoming Department of Transportation training building every Monday at noon. He has been a member of this club for five years.

Currently, he is a maintenance operations engineer at the Department where he has been employed for 39 years. He and his wife, Jeri, have two daughters.

The Rigging shop welcomed Daniel Nesvik to their ranks in January.

Photo: WYDOT

Belving

Wenger

Kennedy

Collicott

Spoonemore

Burgess

Lindsay

Kindsvater

Kiel Smith

District 1

Welcome

Larretta Ackerman, Driver ServicesRawlins/Baggs; David Gordon, Cheyenne

Maintenance; Stephen Kruhmin, Emergency Communications-Microwave; David Polzella, Rawlins Mechanics; Peter Tyler, Medicine Bow Maintenance; and Lamar Williams, Laramie MaintenanceGuardrail.

District 2

Welcome

Russell Eason, Douglas Maintenance; Shay Herrera, Port of Entry-Casper; Curtis Roper, Douglas Maintenance; Justin Skinner, Douglas Maintenance; Charles Stephens, Wheatland Maintenance; and Daniel Taussig, Lusk Maintenance.

Service Awards

Samual Blaney, Port of Entry-Lusk

years; Claudia Cartwright, Douglas Construction – 5 years; and Larry Murphy, Lusk Maintenance – 5 years.

Promotions and Transfers

Wyatt Houston, Elk Mountain

Maintenance; Dustin Macy, District 1 Construction Staff; and Caleb Pimmel, Rawlins Construction.

Service Awards

Mark Urban, Cheyenne

Construction – 25 years.

Debra Cain, Driver ServicesTorrington/Lusk – 25 years; Jeffrey Mueller, Torrington Maintenance – 25 years;

Joshua Simonson, Casper Maintenance –15 years;

Marc Wheeler, Traffic-Electrical – 15 years;

Wade Wintermote, Douglas Construction – 15 years;

District 3

Welcome

Adam Benton, Traffic-Electrical; Amanda Chadwick, Rock Springs

Mechanics; Alan Micklich, Farson

Maintenance; Brooke Pollard, Pinedale

Construction; Rocky Sanchez, Emergency Communications-District 3 Radio Shop; and Fallon Schwab, Afton Construction.

Promotions and Transfers

Ty Jereb, Rock Springs TrafficStriping.

Service Awards

Kurt Anselmi, Jackson Construction – 25 years; and Tonia Spurrier, Rock Springs Construction – 5 years.

Retirements

Becky Hager, senior staff technician with Rock Springs

Construction, retired in February after more than 40 years of service with the state.

Bill Johns Afton striping technician

Bill Johns retired in February after 27 years of service with the state.

A frosted WYDOT plow in the wild of District 1.

Photo: WYDOT/Marty Mayfield

Macy Urban

Houston

Gordon Polzella

Williams

Tyler

Blaney

Mueller

Wheeler Simonsen

Wintermote

Cartwright Murphy

Anselmi Hager Johns

District 4

Welcome

Parker Tiffany, Sheridan Mechanics.

Promotions and Transfers

Stephan Charles II, Buffalo Construction; Kayla Hardesty, Sheridan Construction; Joseph Lambert, Newcastle Mechanics; Andrew Reimers, Buffalo Maintenance; Charles Schuler III, Gillette Mechanics; Kerry Welch, Buffalo Construction; and Robert Williams, Sheridan TrafficStriping.

Service Awards

Lawrence Konetzki, District 4 Maintenance Staff – 45 years; William Torrance, Emergency Communications-District 4 Radio Shop – 25 years;

Brian Brownell, Sheridan Mechanics – 20 years;

Retirements

Shane Pugh the retiring Riverton maintenance foreman, retired in February after more than 31 years of service with the state.

Pugh started with the striping crew out of Lander, and also spent time as a maintenance technician and HEO in the Lander and South Pass areas. He also previously worked in the Wyoming Game and Fish construction/maintenance and sign shop.

Joseph Yalowizer, Port of EntrySheridan – 10 years; and

Dea Koch, TrafficElectrical – 5 years.

District 5

Promotions and Transfers

Bryce Gilbert, Thermopolis Maintenance; and Scott Nolting, Riverton Construction.

Service Awards

Chad Shaffer, Shoshoni Maintenance – 20 years;

Barbara Archibald, District 5 Maintenance Staff –15 years;

Brian Martin, Lander Construction – 15 years; and Crystal Gullickson, Driver Services-Cody/Lovell – 5 years.

Beyond his work with the state, Pugh served with the US Air Force. In his spare time, Pugh loves hunting, fishing and woodworking.

After 30 years with the state, the retiring heavy equipment operator Neil Thomas retired in February.

Thomas started with WYDOT as an equipment operator in Worland and also spent time as a maintainer in Midwest. He graduated from Hot Springs County High School in 1986.

In his spare time, Thomas enjoys hunting, fishing and collecting rocks.

Tiffany

Konetzki

Welch

Hardesty Reimers

Brownell

Charles II

Torrance

Williams

Lambert Schuler III

Yalowizer

Koch

Archibald

Shaffer Martin

Pugh

Thomas

retirement luncheon at the Wyoming Department of Transportation office in Riverton. Pugh is the retiring Riverton maintenance foreman and Thomas the retiring heavy equipment operator. Both men leave WYDOT after serving as state public servants for decades, working to make Fremont County roadways safe during all seasons of the year.

Plow driver and a little sand got commercial driver going

To whom it may concern,

This evening (Feb. 25) I spun out in my semi hauling fuel climbing a hill on South Pass. The top of the hill was a solid sheet of ice and put me, and other drivers, in a very dangerous situation.

One of your plow operators named Fred (I didn’t catch a last name) came to my rescue. He got sand put around my vehicle to get me moving and cleared me a path using sand to get me to safe roads. I wanted to give a huge thank you for employing such a wonderful helpful human being. He deserves all the praise in the world for saving what could have ended up in potential lives being in danger. In my long history of driving on Wyoming roads commercially and responding to these roads as a firefighter, tonight’s situation was the most dangerous one I have ever been in and Fred truly saved the day.

Casper area snow maintainers recognized by citizens

District 2 Public Involvement Specialist, Jeff Goetz, wrote up this Facebook post about a group who recognized the good work of our maintainers.

Every significant snow storm brings challenges and frustrations. Closed roads, closed businesses and schools - it can be very stressful on all of us.

Our snow plow operators face their challenges head-on, working long hours to open roads and keep them as clear and safe as possible. Often this work is criticized, and it’s nice for our folks to get a pat on the back from the community we all serve and are part of. Such was the case during this most recent storm for our Casper plow drivers.

Some thoughtful residents brought us food and snacks, drinks and even one pretty cool thank you card! HQ BBQ was very generous in their efforts – our drivers really appreciated that!

So we wanted to say thank you for thinking of us, and for everyone’s generosity. And to everyone, when the next storm buries us all deep in snow, a simple gesture whether it’s a handdrawn card, or helping someone clear out their driveway, can really make a person’s day, and help to bring our community a bit closer together. Thank you Casper!

Wyoming Strong – Don’t crowd the plow

Edie Reed, a CDL examiner in the Rock Springs Driver Services office, created this work of art featuring a WYDOT snowplow. Beyond using the plows as a muse for

art, Reed has even volunteered to help plow this year amid staff shortages. Thank you Edie, and buckle up buttercup!

Chad Bieber, via email

Casper-area snow plow drivers were brought many thanks and a few treats for their efforts this winter.

Photo: WYDOT

Photo: WYDOT

Centennial family thankful for snow plow crew

A local family expressed their gratitude to maintainer Edwin Leyba and supervisor Al Branscom in Laramie. From their note:

“Dear Edwin and Alan,

We are a family that lives in Centennial, and we wanted to tell you how thankful we are for you plowing Highway 130 between Laramie and Centennial. I’m sure you’ve put in a lot of hours keeping that open and we didn’t want your efforts to go unnoticed.

Thank you again! With gratitude,

The Demoret family – Kyle, Maria, Wyatt, Madelynn, Cordell and Lucienne.”

Each of the Demoret children drew or colored their own version of thank you for Leyba and Branscom.

WTDEA

WTDEA District Contacts

Headquarters

Justin Mordahl, President

Chelsey Lindsay, Vice President

Pam Fredrick, Treasurer

Audrey Hobbs, Secretary

District 1

Rich Barber, President; Laramie

Brandon Strannigan, Vice President; Saratoga

District 2

David Cullison, President; Casper

Zach Miller, Vice President; Douglas

Debbie Herbold, Secretary/Treasurer; Casper

District 3

Paul Schurman, President; Rock Springs

Michael Kennedy, Vice President; Afton

Ember Brown, Secretary; Evanston

Christina Kindler, Treasurer; Rock Springs

District 4

Erik Brannigan, President; Sheridan

Laura Dalles, Vice President; Sheridan

Keri Griffith, Secretary; Sheridan

Paul Miller, Treasurer; Sheridan

District 5

Christa Hauser, President; South Pass

John Farr, Vice President; Lander

Cole Mosegard, Secretary/Treasurer; Basin

WYOMING TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION

We are looking for employees to join us in our fellowship

Thanks for being “on it”

To whoever is in charge of plowing our main roads – you do an amazing job!

I’m always remarking to my kids that it’s remarkable that with any size storm, you’re always “on it.” We can get all the places we need to go thanks to you.

Thank you!

April Mason

You can become involved by signing up with your local District chapter, attending meetings, joining the board of officers and participating in planning events and fundraisers that can help keep all of our employees connected. The more members we have that are willing to step up – the further our mission can spread.

The WTDEA was founded in 1956 with a primary purpose of encouraging harmony, promoting employee morale and serving as a liaison between employees and staff.

From WYDOT employees’ ideas and suggestions, WTDEA has facilitated department policies and changes such as:

• Sick Leave Donations

• Military Leave

• Employee recognition programs

• Changes to hardhat policy

• WYDOT Employee Relief Fund

• Maintenance equipment safety upgrades

• AM/FM radios in equipment

• Mechanic tool allowance

• Employee’s Memorial

• Clothing allowance

We strive to maintain and improve morale in the department by hosting events to create an atmosphere of harmony and friendship among employees. We also promote fundraisers to maintain the WYDOT Employee Relief Fund, helping our employees in times of unexpected circumstances. We also hold fundraisers to fund WTDEA Scholarships awarded to undergraduate students throughout the state.

Contact

WTDEA

Photo: WYDOT

Outdoors

This is Matt Sanders’ deer from last fall. His son, Mark, was with him and is in the background. This harvest is another Fremont County deer.

Photo: Matt Sanders

Philip Flores, with Environmental Services, snapped this action shot of a fox that was running through the Headquarters complex parking lots when he was out on an afternoon wellness walk.

Photo: Philip Flores

Lisa Sanders (kneeling between the kids) with her moose from Sublette County last fall. Matt Sanders (standing) and grandsons (from left) Braxton, Weston and Emmitt were all present for the photo op.

Photo: Matt Sanders

Matt Sanders and son, Mark, were out on another hunting excursion and found this Fremont County bull elk last fall. This bull was harvested with a bow.

Photo: Matt Sanders

Break Time

Try your hand at a Sudoku puzzle. A puzzle with numbers, but no math!

How to play Sudoku:

• Fill each 3 x 3 set with numbers 1-9.

• Fill cells until the board is complete. Numbers in sets, rows or columns cannot repeat.

• Note: Each number can only appear on the board 9 times.

Answer to the March 2023 Break Time Photo Search:

9 1 3 2 5 9 3 7 6 2 6 8

3 6 2 8 3

9 4 1 3 4 5 6

Name change, I am a family member of a deceased employee, but I would like to continue receiving Interchange.

Wyoming Department of Transportation 5300 Bishop Blvd. Cheyenne, Wyoming 82009-3340

Address Service Requested