The Wyoming Department of Transportation’s Maintenance Staff program plays a critical role in supporting maintenance operations across the state. In a recent interview, Maintenance Staff Program Manager Marc Anderson provided an overview of the program’s responsibilities and key initiatives.
Maintenance Staff consists of 13 employees based at WYDOT’s Cheyenne headquarters, including a three-person Winter Research Team and two maintenance equipment trainers.
“We are the liaison between the districts and HQ programs, other state agencies and outside entities,” Anderson explained.
“Our main task is the management of AgileAssets – WYDOT’s Maintenance management system – to review the system for consistent and correct work entries and to provide accurate reports to executive staff and others that request information.”
Maintenance Staff coordinates with almost all WYDOT divisions to some extent, and partners with Wyoming agencies (such as Homeland Security, Environmental Quality, and Game and Fish among others) on issues ranging from maintenance management to snow fence inventory to natural disaster response.
“We work with anyone within WYDOT that uses AgileAssets,” said Anderson, noting that their group also works with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation
Officials Committee on Maintenance, the National Highway Institute, Clear Roads, and other federal maintenance groups.
“We even have an impact nationwide and internationally through National Cooperative Highway Research Program technical panels and Transportation Research Board subcommittees,” Anderson said.
Anderson and his staff offer equipment training on most WYDOT heavy equipment. They also provide AgileAssets and Maintenance Management training, and they coordinate with NHI to hold the Maintenance Leadership Academy, which is expected to replace the Maintenance Management course.
In addition, the Maintenance Staff program handles oversize vehicle and weight restriction administration, public record information and legal request coordination, road segment quality control and assurance, design/repair contract administration, and winter weather/snow fence research. They also update manuals, standard sets and other documents related to maintenance and inventory.
Some of the program’s recent accomplishments include a major upgrade to the AgileAssets system, establishing a commercial driver’s license training program for WYDOT employees, and hosting the first WYDOT Equipment Rodeo as part of the
Photo:
Duard Dilday/WYDOT
Maintenance Staff’s Winter Research Team studies the effectiveness of different types of snow fence, such as vertical fence pictured above.
Interchange is published for employees of the Wyoming Department of Transportation by its
and a number of field
Interchange invites submissions from all employees. Please send them to either your district correspondents or to Carlie Dakins, Interchange editor 5300 Bishop Blvd., Cheyenne, Wyoming, 82009-3340 or send an email to carlie.dakins@wyo.gov.
Andrea Staley District 1
Jeff Goetz District 2
Stephanie Harsha District 3
Laura Dalles District 4
Cody Beers District 5
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statewide crew leaders meeting that the Maintenance office puts on every two years.
“The crew leaders meeting is my favorite event that our office puts together,” Anderson noted. “It takes about six months of planning, but it’s a great team activity for our group; there’s a lot of satisfaction to hear from attendees that they enjoyed the meeting and learned a few things in the process.”
Looking ahead, Anderson noted that an aging workforce presents a challenge, with seven of his staff eligible to retire within a year. He also highlighted unique issues the program faces in rural Wyoming, such as private landowners wanting snow fences
removed from their property.
Anderson has seen lots of changes and has had a lot of interesting experiences over 17 years with the Maintenance Program, with five and a half of those as Program Manager.
“One of the oddest things we’ve participated in was the transport of new COVID-19 test kits and medical supplies out statewide to county health departments, and the transport of used COVID-19 test kits from statewide hospitals and the state penitentiary back to the state health lab in Cheyenne,” Anderson said. “That was a weekly event for about three months in 2020.”
Maintenance Staff continued from cover
Maintenance Staff continued on page 4
The Winter Research Team. (From left) Staff Tech II Duard Dilday, Senior Staff Tech Kathy Ahlenius and Staff Tech I Justin Fehlberg.
Photo: Mark Horan/WYDOT
Above: Maintenance Equipment Trainer Tim Devoss teaching a class about snow plow safety.
Photo: Matt Groth/WYDOT
Maintenance Program staff gathered in their office hallway. Front row l-r: Senior Staff Techs Curtis Olson, Laura Schei and Cori Hastings. Back row l-r: Program Manager Marc Anderson, Staff Engineers Wayne Shenefelt and Chris Romo. Winter Research Team pictured separately.
Not pictured: AgileAssets System Administrator Lisa Ayers, Senior Staff Tech Vince Birkle and Equipment Trainers Larry Pavone and Tim Devoss.
Photo: Mark Horan/WYDOT
More on winter research and snow fence
• In 2005, the Maintenance Program started the Snow Fence Inventory as a pilot project for asset management around Lander and South Pass. That project has expanded, and today they are able to visualize all their snow fence assets in the state through their Snow Fence Viewer. That equates to over 458 miles of snow fence and 130,101 panels.
• Last year, Maintenance contracted with the Laramie engineering firm Trihydro to do an efficiency study on vertical vs. standard A-Frame snow fence to see if they were storing the same amount of snow. Taking into consideration the limitations of that study, researchers saw a reduced storage capacity of vertical fence. Because of that, the study is continuing this year in coordination with District 1 Maintenance and Survey.
• In addition to vertical and A-Frame snow fence, the Maintenance Program works with county conservation districts through the State Forestry Office to fund and build “living snow fences” at strategic locations along WYDOT routes to help reduce the blowing snow impact on the road. Plantings usually include evergreen trees, juniper bushes and other shrubbery that have a good track record of survival in the district where they are planted.
• The Winter Research group has championed several projects through AASHTO’s Research Advisory Committee. Notable past projects were: Historical Winter Weather Assessment for Snow Fence Design using a Numerical Weather Model, which modeled the winds and precipitation statewide; and Characterization of Blowover Risk in the Wyoming Highway System, which has led to changing how WYDOT notifies freight and high profile vehicles of their risk of traveling on windy roads.
• There are two research projects currently underway: Evaluation and Forecasting of Winter Road Conditions Associated with Blowing Snow for the Wyoming Highway System and Developing a Collision Warning and Collison Avoidance System for WYDOT Snowplows
• As part of their research, the team goes out during or after a storm period with specialized weather recording equipment to survey the road surface and ambient conditions.
1. They collect data such as wind speeds, prevailing wind direction, geographical profile of the corridor, and any obstacles that may be causing drifts.
2. The team also has a state of the art surface monitoring system on the vehicle that measures road temperature, ambient temperature, dew point and humidity, as well as the state of friction of the road surface and how much water is on the road.
3. These instruments take detailed images and videos of the conditions that are present – down to the millimeter. They also take detailed measurements throughout the drive and plot them on a map so staff can see where these problems are occurring and if they can be solved by snow fence placement.
4. Instrument data will be used to create a map of the entire
corridor with fences in place where they need to be, how long and how high they need to be, and the angle set to give the road the most protection.
“We’re basically looking at the effectiveness of our road treatment and snow fence,” Anderson said. “We’re always trying to determine how and if our methods are making a difference and finding ways to improve.”
Senior Staff Techs Laura Schei and Curtis Olson look over a work order in AgileAssets.
Photo: Mark
District Briefs
Headquarters
WYDOT conducting Customer Satisfaction
Survey; we want to hear from you!
CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation is conducting its biannual Customer Satisfaction Survey and wants to hear from you!
The survey asks questions about residents’ experiences with WYDOT and Wyoming Highway Patrol services and asks for ways the agency can improve.
The Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center at the University of Wyoming is conducting this survey. WYSAC will be contacting Wyoming residents through a random sampling process by phone and/ or by mail from Nov. 6 through Dec. 31, 2024. WYDOT is not accepting responses outside of the WYSAC process.
The survey is expected to take about 15 minutes. If you receive a phone call or a letter from WYSAC during this time, we thank you in advance for taking your valuable time to tell WYDOT how we can be better.
This survey will not ask for personal information and does not offer any payment. If you receive a call from someone claiming to be WYDOT asking for personal information, payment information or other suspicious requests, please hang up; it is likely a scam.
WYDOT thanks you in advance for your time in making WYDOT a better agency for our Wyoming citizens. Previous iterations of the Customer Satisfaction Survey can be found here: https://www.dot.state.wy.us/home/ administration/strategic_performance/ survey_results.html
Wyoming, Colorado join forces for impaired driving enforcement
CHEYENNE – When the University of Wyoming Cowboys took on the Colorado State Rams in football Nov. 14, it marked the 116th game in the historic
Border War rivalry. One of the oldest rivalry games in college football, this year’s Border War took place in Fort Collins. More than 32,000 fans of both Colorado State and Wyoming descended upon Canvas Stadium for the game.
To help make sure every fan arrived at the game and back home safely, law enforcement from Wyoming and Colorado were out en masse conducting a bi-state, multi-agency impaired driving enforcement operation.
Coordinated enforcement efforts were conducted in Albany and Laramie counties in Wyoming, as well as Larimer and Weld counties in Colorado, before, during, and after the game. Agencies involved in Wyoming included the Wyoming Highway Patrol, Laramie Police Department, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, University of Wyoming Police Department, Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, Pine Bluffs Police Department, and the Cheyenne Police Department.
Agencies involved in Colorado included the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Collins Police Department, Loveland Police Department, CSU Police Department, and the Colorado State Patrol.
“More than 38 percent of fatalities on Wyoming’s highways last year involved impaired driving,” said Col. Tim Cameron of the Wyoming Highway Patrol. “We want that percentage to be zero. That’s why it’s so important that fans, and all drivers, be responsible and not drink and drive. Have a plan if you plan to drink. Designate a sober driver, use a ride share service and know that if you do choose to drive impaired, law enforcement will have zero tolerance for your behavior.”
In 2023, there were 144 lives lost on Wyoming’s highways. Of those, 55 involved impaired driving. So far in 2024, there have been 91 fatalities on the state’s highways.
The Wyoming Highway Patrol urges drivers to help keep Wyoming’s roadways safe by calling the Report Every Drunk Driver Immediately hotline at (800) 4429090 to report suspected drunk drivers. Callers should be prepared to provide the dispatcher with a description of the vehicle, its location, and the direction of travel.
District 1 WYO 130 through the Snowy Range closed for winter season
LARAMIE – Wyoming Highway 130 through the high country of the Snowy Range has officially closed for the season.
Wyoming Department of Transportation crews in Laramie and Saratoga decided current road conditions warranted closing the section of WYO 130 for the season.
Also known as the Snowy Range Scenic Byway, the 12-mile section of WYO 130 tops out at more than 10,800 ft. in elevation and closes annually each fall when lack of travel and deep snow accumulations make plowing the highway impractical.
The closure spans mile markers 36-48, from the Green Rock trailhead in the east to just above Ryan Park in the west.
Last year, WYO 130 closed for the season on Nov. 26. In previous years, WYO 130 closed Nov. 10 in 2022, Nov. 11 in 2021, Nov. 14 in 2020, and Oct. 29 in 2019. WYO 130 is one of two high-elevation highways in District 1 that close for the winter annually.
Highway 130 will remain closed until WYDOT crews can work to clear the accumulated snow in the spring.
Summit Rest Area on I-80 near Laramie temporarily closed for repairs
LARAMIE – The Summit Rest Area near mile marker 323 on Interstate 80 east of Laramie was closed on Nov. 18 for repairs.
The closure began in the morning and lasted the day.
Facilities, including restrooms and tourist information areas, were closed to the public. Parking was available during the closure.
Briefs continued on page 4
District 2
Opening of the new F Street bridge in Casper
CASPER – The third of five bridges near downtown Casper is now open. Finishing touches on the F Street bridge over the North Platte River prior to its opening on Nov. 15 included new handrail, final asphalt work and work on the sidewalk leading to the bridge. The opening reopened a vital connection between the east and west sides of the river, making access to businesses along this street much easier.
The opening of the F Street bridge marks the third of five bridges to be completed as part of a two-year long bridge reconstruction project across and near the river that includes four Interstate 25 bridges (two over the river and two over Center Street) and the F Street bridge. Both northbound I-25 bridges have been completed and work continues on the two southbound I-25 bridges (one over the river and one over Center Street).
The nearly $58 million project began in 2023 and has a contractual completion date of November 2025.
District 3
I-80 median work
between Green River, Rock Springs
ROCK SPRINGS – The Wyoming Department of Transportation maintenance crews worked in the median of Interstate 80 near milepost 95 between Green River and Rock Springs. The work took place on Nov. 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Drivers encountered reduced speeds and a lane closure in the westbound lanes while the work was underway. The work and traffic control impacted traffic for one day.
Crews work at night on Teton Pass, weather permitting
JACKSON – The Wyoming Department of Transportation and contract
crews from Ames Construction resumed working at night on Wyoming Highway 22, Teton Pass, at milepost 12.8. Crews were focused on placing lightweight fill material, as weather allows. Crews hoped to get as much of the work done as possible before the seasonal shutdown at the end of the November.
Crews will resume work in the spring, with the goal of rebuilding the permanent road by July of 2025.
Rebuilding WYO 22 will be paused for the winter, but will resume in the spring.
Swinging bridge removal closure
JACKSON – The Wyoming Department of Transportation, along with contract crews from Reiman Corp., briefly closed US 26/89/189/191 near the Swinging Bridge Road south of Jackson the week of Nov. 5 for the removal of the last truss section of the old Swinging Bridge. The last section was moved to the Snake River boat ramp to join the other two sections that were already there. Crews set up traffic control at 9 a.m. and the move was scheduled to take place at about 10 a.m.
The closure was tentatively scheduled to last 30 minutes, which was the estimated time of travel to relocate the structure. Due to the size of the old Swinging Bridge structure and the difficulty with turning movements and travel, the highway must be free of traffic to move it. WYDOT sent out a 511 Notify alert prior to the 30 minute closure to relocate the structure.
WYDOT strongly encouraged commuters to avoid the area if possible, to be prepared for delays if traveling in the area, and sign up for 511 Notify alerts to receive updates on the project prior to the closure. Drivers can sign up for 511 Notify alerts at: https://www.wyoroad. info/511/511NotifyAnnouncement.html
The Swinging Bridge replacement project is part of WYDOT’s Bridge Replacement Off System program. The BROS program is a federally funded program to reduce the number of deficient off-system bridges. It applies to bridges owned by cities, towns and counties, located on a non-federal aid roadway. Once a new bridge has been constructed by WYDOT, the local agency maintains responsibility for all maintenance on the structure.
District 5
Haymaker Draw bridge closed north of Riverton
Riverton – Wyoming Department of Transportation geology crews drilled near the Haymaker Draw bridge north of Riverton on Nov. 5 through Nov. 7.
The bridge was closed to traffic between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on those days.
The 2027 bridge replacement project is a joint project between WYDOT and Fremont County, according to WYDOT Resident Engineer Robert Scheidemantel of Riverton.
Outage of tunnel lights west of Cody
CODY – Due to required maintenance and testing at the Shoshone Power Plant by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the power plant was offline from Nov. 4 through Nov. 7.
This caused an outage to the US 14/16/20 tunnel controls and lights west of Cody on those days.
During the four-day outage, motorists were encouraged to turn on headlights for safety. Signs were placed on each end of the tunnels, requiring headlights to be used in the tunnels.
Photo: WYDOT screenshot
LaPrele Dam ordered to be breached
The Office of Gov. Mark Gordon
DOUGLAS – Following ongoing monitoring and a recent thorough inspection of the condition of LaPrele Dam, Wyoming State Engineer Brandon Gebhart issued an order to breach the 115-year-old dam. The recent discovery of a large, new crack above the dam’s outlet works, the deterioration of previously identified structural deficiencies, and the operational limitations of the existing dam led to the decision.
“I want to commend the State Engineer and his staff for recognizing the significant risks of a potential dam failure and proactively addressing them before a disaster occurred,” Governor Gordon said. “This decision was not made lightly, and we recognize the impact this will have on those who rely on that water for irrigation.”
The LaPrele Dam is owned and operated by the LaPrele Irrigation District and located 20 miles west of Douglas. The deteriorating conditions of the dam had been identified and monitored by the State Engineer’s Office, the District, and the Wyoming Water Development Office, eventually leading the State Engineer to issue orders restricting water storage behind the dam in 2019. Currently there is little to no water behind the dam, and the dam’s outlet works are completely open and passing all inflows into LaPrele Creek.
“This dam has significant structural deficiencies and has exceeded its useful life,” Gebhart said. “Due to preemptive actions already taken, there is currently no risk or danger to the public downstream because there is little to no water stored and the outlets are able to pass inflows to prevent new storage. However, continued use of the dam to store water could cause catastrophic failure, which poses a threat to life and property. These threats need to be mitigated before the spring runoff, when flows are expected to exceed the dam’s ability to pass inflows.”
“I greatly appreciate the collaboration of my staff, the District,
the Water Development Office and their technical representatives all working together to identify and address this significant threat before something very catastrophic occurred.”
Given the age and condition of the structure, LaPrele Dam was already scheduled for replacement in the coming years. Planning for the replacement is underway. These plans include demolition of the dam which was set to occur as part of the replacement project. The Breach Order now requires the demolition to be completed prior to the upcoming spring runoff season.
“I appreciate the State Engineer’s foresight and agency expertise to detect a risk and prevent failure. A dam failure could have had major impacts to Interstate 25 and other transportation infrastructure like bridges and underpasses,” WYDOT Director Darin Westby said. “We will be monitoring the impacts of the decommissioning on all impacted WYDOT infrastructure.”
In a statement, the LaPrele Irrigation District expressed its appreciation for the collaborative efforts the state has undertaken to address the dam’s issues.
“The LaPrele Irrigation District has been working actively with our consultants and State Agencies to evaluate this new issue ever since it was brought to light. As members of the Board, we take the responsibility of safeguarding the District shareholders’ interests very seriously, and we have advocated accordingly throughout this process. Their livelihoods and ours depend on the LaPrele Reservoir. We also hold paramount our responsibility as owners of this high hazard dam to mitigate the threat it currently poses to life, property, and natural resources downstream.”
“We are grateful for the support and collaboration of the State Engineer’s Office and the Water Development Office in addressing the issue. We intend to comply with the State’s Order, and we continue our unwavering commitment to replacing the LaPrele Dam with a renewed sense of urgency.”
Photo: Courtesy of the Office of Gov. Mark Gordon
WYDOT, UW win AASHTO High Value Research Award
Winning research helps identify passing zones on two-lane highways more efficiently
By Jordan Young
A Wyoming Department of Transportation and University of Wyoming research project studying more efficient passing zone identification on two-lane highways was awarded a High Value Research Award by the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials Research Advisory Committee.
Every year the AASHTO RAC votes on recent research projects conducted around the nation and awards 16 of those projects High Value Research Awards.
This year, Wyoming was awarded a High Value Research Award for its recent project, “Developing Prototype Systems for Establishing Two-Lane Highway Passing and No Passing Zones”, conducted by researchers at the UW Civil Engineering Department: Ahmed Farid, Zephaniah Connell, James Mock, Suresh Muknahallipatna and Khaled Ksaibati. The WYDOT Project Champions for this project included Jeff Mellor at the Traffic Division, and the project was sponsored by the WYDOT Research Center.
The project’s goal was to replace the outdated equipment WYDOT used to determine locations for passing and no-passing zones on two lane highways with a new system that is more efficient and accurate.
Two-lane highways comprise a considerable percentage of the nation’s roads; Wyoming alone has more than 39,000 miles of two-lane highway. A critical component required in the design of two-lane highways is the passing sight distance. In cases where the site distance is inadequate, no-passing zones are established.
WYDOT uses the two-vehicle electronic method for determining limits of no-passing zones. The method uses two vehicles driving the speed limit with a gap between the vehicles that measures to the required passing sight distance for that speed. The observer decides when the lead vehicle has disappeared from view and marks this as the start of a no-passing zone with the press of a button. Similarly, the end of the no-passing zone is marked when the lead vehicle is observable again.
The agency’s previous two-car, radio-linked range tracker system is no longer functional due to its outdated Microsoft Disk Operating System and reliance on a 5.5 floppy disk drive.
Since these tools are inoperable, this project was aimed at proposing two state-of-the-art prototypes for the two-vehicle method. The first prototype, named Prototype 1, was replicated. The second prototype, Prototype 2, was designed to automate some of the functions of Prototype 1 by incorporating advanced intelligent transportation system devices. After the delivery of units from both prototypes to WYDOT, the Prototype 1 units were retrieved and upgraded such that their functionalities were similar to that of Prototype 2.
After testing both prototypes, the equipment proved not only efficient but also produced accurate results.
The research project provided two complete systems using a GPS, a Vehicle-to-Vehicle communication system, and a user interface providing the distance between the lead and follow vehicles while logging the limits and lengths of the detected no-passing zones. These limits are based on the input from the
observer in the follow vehicle. The units also provide a live map of the no-passing zones during data collection.
The final prototype determines no-passing zone locations based on US Geological Survey terrain maps and GPS coordinates; a machine learning algorithm, which uses images of the lead vehicle captured by a camera mounted to the follow vehicle; and, like the first two systems, manual input from an observer in the follow vehicle. Processing the collected data provides GPStagged images of the lead vehicle during the drive, enabling users to make accurate determinations of the no-passing zones continuously, even offline.
An additional third system was provided by the Wyoming Technology Transfer Center for use by local and county governments with improved capabilities for detecting no-passing zones.
All three systems require two personnel in the following vehicle: a driver and an observer. However, the third system provides an extra degree of confidence that the no-passing zones are marked appropriately by enabling post-processing inspection of GPS-tagged images of the lead vehicle near the locations where the human observer marked the limits of the no-passing zone during data collection.
The prototype units provided to WYDOT are being used by the districts to mark no-passing zones on construction projects that alter the original alignment or vertical grade, as well as to verify no-passing and passing zones are marked correctly.
Researchers are still refining the final prototype of the third system, working with UW to correct any glitches.
Photo: Rick Carpenter/ WYDOT
About the AASHTO High Value Research Awards
Acting on the strategic plan of the AASHTO Standing Committee on Research, the AASHTO RAC asks states each year to identify and document recently completed “high value” research projects.
RAC publishes an annual compilation of these projects, which provides substantial value to states, serves as a quick reference to high value research projects from a given year, and helps eliminate or reduce duplication of research.
Solicitation for high value research projects starts each year in January. From these submittals, each of the four RAC regions selects its top four projects to form
About the WYDOT Research Center
The Mission of the Research Center is to enhance the economic well-being and quality of life in Wyoming by working with public and private partners, and to produce a safe and efficient transportation system with the use of research.
Projects are chosen by the Research Advisory Committee, comprised of different WYDOT engineers and officials who meet quarterly to evaluate, review and prioritize research proposals and allocate funding.
The main source of funding for most research at the center is federal dollars, but sometimes funding is sourced from state dollars or National Cooperative Highway Research Program dollars through AASHTO and the
Communicating amid the chaos
How WyoLink assisted firefighting efforts in northeast Wyoming this fall
By Jordan Young
The Elk Fire in the Big Horn National Forest burned 98,352 acres before winter finally arrived and slowed it down to 100 percent containment. Wyoming Department of Transportation crews in District 4 spent many man-hours fixing burnt guardrail, fence, signs and other infrastructure after the blaze closed US Highway 14 and US 14A west of Sheridan.
WYDOT’s work was not just limited to highway maintenance; Emergency Communications also had a busy fire season. Emergency Communications maintains the statewide public safety interoperable radio communications system, called WyoLink, which allows different first responders and local, state and federal government agencies to communicate with each other seamlessly during large scale events, even across the state.
Most large firefighting crews with the US Forest Service bring their own radio networks when battling major fires like the Elk Fire, but WYDOT Emergency Communications crews can program them to be interoperable with WyoLink equipment.
Even though firefighters were using WyoLink sparingly, it was still vital to prevent systems from being bogged down by the increased radio traffic in the area. WyoLink had to maintain seamless connectivity for the typical day-to-day emergency response coordination in nearby communities, such as calls for emergency medical services.
There are 96 WyoLink towers (with more under construction) around the state, and three of those sites were within the path of the Elk Fire. District 4 Lead Emergency Communications Technician Chad Saeler spent much of his time this fall monitoring the fire’s progress, available fuels, wind direction and other factors to determine risk to WyoLink sites and equipment. Fortunately, no equipment or infrastructure was damaged and minimal cleanup was needed. However, crews were still kept plenty busy.
For example, at the Duncan Lake tower site near Burgess Junction, Saeler coordinated getting the backup generators enough fuel in case the power had to be shut off in the area.
“Keeping the tower online is critical, and not having that generator fueled up would put us on the clock,” said Mark Kelly, Emergency Communications program manager. “The batteries would keep equipment running for up to 12 hours, depending on
usage.”
Given the activity that tower was seeing, 12 hours would’ve been a stretch; statistics presented to the Public Safety Communications Commission in November showed a whopping 264 percent increase in usage at the Duncan Lake tower site during the Elk Fire. Data also showed a 123 percent increase in usage at the nearby Banner Ridge tower site and a 110 percent usage increase at the nearby Sheridan Kroe tower site during the same time period.
After getting the green light from the firefighters and Sheridan County officials, Saeler escorted the propane fuel truck on the closed roads to the site, fulfilling the mission while also maintaining safety for the driver, himself and the firefighters in the area.
Additionally, Saeler said he knew WYDOT maintenance was running propane generators at the Burgess Junction employee housing and well pump.
“I planned deliveries to those tanks as well, so a single trip would accomplish filling and supplying the needs of all WYDOT entities,” he said.
Fire-driven road closures and access limitations also affected construction activity at a new tower called KERNS, which is located north of Dayton. Saeler worked with officials to help coordinate what work could be done given the recent and forecasted fire activity, trying to keep the project on schedule ahead of the upcoming winter season.
When a Motorola technician from Texas needed access to the Duncan Lake site for required surveying, Saeler personally escorted the official to and from the site, ensuring safety while maintaining Motorola connectivity.
In addition to increased radio traffic, cell phone networks can be overwhelmed during emergencies like wildfires, especially in wilderness areas with limited service on a normal day. Emergency Communications personnel were diligent about relieving that load for firefighters at the Elk Fire.
WYDOT communicated with Sheridan County to offer assistance with communications and to offer one of the agency’s two FirstNet Compact Rapid Deployables, a portable device that adds capacity to an area’s cell phone network.
A CRD was requested, initiating a relay to get a device from Cheyenne to Sheridan, with assistance from Daniel Kinds-
Three WyoLink towers (included in circled area on the WyoLink tower map) were threatened by the Elk
A Compact Rapid Deployable like this one helped expand cell phone service at the Elk Fire Camp in Dayton this fall. Emergency Comms technicians from around the state helped coordinate the delivery of the CRD to the fire camp.
Photo: Mark Kelly/WYDOT
Fire this fall. Fortunately, no towers or other equipment were damaged.
Graphic: Carlie Dakins/WYDOT
The Elk Fire in the Big Horn National Forest burned 98,352 acres before winter finally arrived and slowed it down to 100 percent containment. While some highway infrastructure like fencing and guardrail was burnt to a crisp, no WyoLink equipment was damaged in the historic blaze.
Fires in District 5
Unfortunately, the Elk Fire was not the only fire ravaging Wyoming this fall. The Pack Trail Fire merged with the nearby Fish Creek Fire and burnt 89,930 acres of the Bridger-Teton National Forest near US Highway 26/287, also called Togwotee Pass.
The WINDY RIDGE WyoLink tower in the area saw a 125 percent increase in usage during the Pack Trail fire, and a 114 percent increase in usage during the Fish Creek fire.
Fortunately, no WyoLink equipment was damaged from the fires and minimal cleanup work was needed.
vater (WyoLink Technician) and Daniel Spencer (District 2 Emergency Communications technician).
Sheridan Emergency Communications Technician Grant Toth assisted in deploying the CRD at the Elk Fire Camp in Dayton, but the equipment had an unexpected failure. Toth and Kindsvater spent hours trying to troubleshoot the issue with FirstNet tech support before determining the issue could not be fixed in the field.
Another relay was initiated to get the second CRD from Jackson, where it was after the June landslide on Wyoming Highway 22/Teton pass, to Sheridan. Jeffrey Adams (District 5 Emergency Communications technician) and Dalen Davis (D5 lead technician) delivered the unit and were able to deploy it without any issues.
“All of this took place with very little notice,” Kelly said. “Everyone involved had to drop everything they were doing to complete this, but I never received any pushback at any time. They went above and beyond.”
The crews also removed the CRD once the fire camp was disbanded in late October.
Responding to a major event like a wildfire takes a lot of teamwork, communication, and infrastructure, which highlights how critical the WyoLink system – and the technicians who keep it running – are to the State of Wyoming.
“The teamwork, dedication and professionalism within this program is second to none,” Kelly said. “Our techs have, at times, thankless jobs. They get contacted when something isn’t working, but they seldom hear a thank you for everything they do on a daily basis. I feel very fortunate to have a great group of people in the Emergency Communications Program.”
Crews constructing a new WyoLink tower north of Dayton, called KERNS, had to work around road closures and other hazards this
fall as the Elk Fire threatened the area.
Photo: Chad Saeler/WYDOT
Courtesy photo
New Intranet Viewer web application provides enhanced user experience
Tool helps employees easily map out variety of data points
By Jordan Young
The Wyoming Department of Transportation GIS/ ITS program announced the release of an updated version of the Intranet Viewer web mapping application this fall, providing an improved user experience, increased functionality and more accurate results.
The update includes new and better features, including a clean modern design. New features include a way to filter data, updated data sources and the ability to design and share downloadable maps in various formats and scales.
The new Intranet Viewer 2.0 allows users to create a PDF printable map on a variety of topics using the filters and data available.
With the map, employees can explore data points like WYDOT asset locations, rockfall locations, highway safety data and more. There are measurement options, filters and other helpful tools, as well as a legend.
The new application is live now at https://insidegis.wyoroad. info/viewer/, and you should update any existing bookmarks. The old page will have a link to the new application.
Looking ahead, GIS/ITS staff are working on additional new
features, including filters showing past and future STIP projects and a new feature that will allow users to identify a beginning and ending point along a route and highlighting the route between the two points.
This web mapping application is for employee use only, although you can print the map and data to share with others. Program staff are also working on updates to the public-facing Interactive Transportation System Map.
Game and Fish
Drivers reminded to watch for wildlife
By Brianna Ball, Wyoming Game and Fish
CHEYENNE – Drivers are involved in more than 7,600 wildlife collisions on Wyoming roadways annually. The majority of those crashes – 80-85 percent – are with mule deer. The crash risk with mule deer increases in the fall and spring when they follow historical pathways to their winter and summer ranges. While roadway modifications are being made throughout the state to help with safe wildlife passage, drivers can aid deer to safety as well.
“Driver behavior can make a tremendous difference in the likelihood of a crash with wildlife,” said Jill Randall, Wyoming Game and Fish Department big game migration coordinator.
The highest risk for collisions are during dawn and dusk hours when wildlife frequent roads at the same time as drivers. During these low-light periods, drivers often don’t see deer before a collision, so many crashes could be avoided by slowing down and being more attentive when traveling these times of the day.
“The number one action a driver can take is slowing down,” Randall said. “This could be even slower than the posted speed limit. Driving slowly gives you a better chance of stopping.”
Randall also encourages drivers to be mindful of other travelers. If you see wildlife, a flash of the headlights can warn oncoming cars to reduce speeds. Also, leave enough following distance between other vehicles to allow time to react if they hit a deer.
If drivers collide with deer or other large wildlife on the road, they are encouraged to call their local law enforcement agency to report the accident. Drivers also can report roadkill on the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s 511 app. Do not try to move a dead animal from the roadway because it can be extremely dangerous.
“The numbers we have are really an underrepresentation of the number of collisions, since most people only make a report if there is significant damage to the vehicle or the deer died on impact,” Randall said.
Tips to help you and others be safe on the road:
• Be as aware as possible while driving.
• Use high beams to see more of the road.
• Scan across the road and right of ways frequently.
• Watch for eyeshine in the headlights.
• Ask passengers to help watch for wildlife.
• Know that wildlife is attracted to the road if salt is used as a deicer and during spring green up.
• Don’t try to herd wildlife off the road with your vehicle. If there is a crowd, creep up slowly until they disperse. You can honk to encourage them. If they don’t budge, contact Game and Fish.
New Wildlife Conservation plate design now available
By Jordan Young
There are more than 8,000 wildlife-vehicle collisions annually in Wyoming. That is 21 wildlife collisions every day. Annually in Wyoming, collisions result in $24-29 million in personal injury costs and $20-23 million per year in wildlife costs.
Recognizing the need to protect drivers and help wildlife, the Wyoming Legislature passed House Bill 39 in 2018 to create a wildlife conservation license plate to help fund efforts to reduce crashes between wildlife and vehicles.
In 2023, wildlife-vehicle crashes made up almost 16 percent of all reported traffic crashes in Wyoming. Highway underpasses and overpasses, coupled with fencing, can reduce crashes by 80-90 percent and ensure animals can safely cross roads to get to seasonal ranges.
“People in Wyoming take an amazing amount of pride in the diverse and abundant wildlife in our state. The Wildlife Conservation License Plate supports a good cause and shows others that you are part of a movement of people who are making a difference for wildlife and humans,” said Angi Bruce, Director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Funds generated from the conservation plate help fund overpasses, underpasses, fencing and signage to prevent vehicle-animal collisions along wildlife migration corridors. Since its launch in 2019, the state has issued more than 3,000 conservation license plates, which have raised $968,820 for wildlife crossing projects. When combined with other donations from Wyoming drivers, a total of $1.8 million has been raised for wildlife projects around the state.
“WYDOT is a proud partner in this grassroots movement working to improve safety and maintain connectivity for humans and wildlife alike,” said Darin Westby, Director of WYDOT. “The support from public donations and nonprofit fundraising makes wildlife crossing projects unique for WYDOT, and it’s easy to support a project that has proven successful at reducing crashes.”
The initial price of the plate is $180, with a $50 renewal fee each year, in addition to registration fees. Those who have previously purchased the mule deer conservation plate will need to purchase the new plate as well. The plate is available anytime — not just with renewals. Information on how to purchase the Wildlife Conservation License Plate is on the WYDOT website.
There are additional ways the public can reduce wildlife impacts on the road and help big game. The biggest way is by reducing speeds in areas where wildlife are known to be on the road, especially at
dawn and dusk, and heed big game crossing signs.
For more information on efforts to prevent collisions with wildlife, visit the Game and Fish Wildlife Crossing webpage. Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my old plate?
You may keep your old plate for collectible purposes only. Plates with no or old registration stickers can be kept. Drivers will need to upgrade their mule deer conservation plates with the new Pronghorn antelope plate. Purchase fees apply.
Will I get to keep my number?
WYDOT will send renewal reminder letters to everyone who is currently registered with a wildlife conservation plate every quarter based on their plate renewal date. Owners of conservation plates with lower numbers will have the opportunity to keep their current number.
How much does the plate cost?
The total cost of the plate is $180, with $150 going to the Wildlife Conservation Fund and $30 for the specialty plate fee. Embossed plates cost an additional $50.
Where can I purchase a plate?
Information on how to purchase the Wildlife Conservation License Plate is on the WYDOT website. Once WYDOT receives the renewal application and payment, the plate will be mailed to the county of their choice.
WILD
Trucks are for Girls!
WYDOT participates in event encouraging women to consider careers in commercial driving
By Jordan Young and Erin King
The second annual “Trucks are for Girls” event took place Oct. 12 at the Eastern Wyoming College Campus in Douglas.
The event, created by Ed Kimes, encourages women to explore careers in commercial driving. Young girls and their families had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the commercial driving industry and interact with commercial vehicles.
Alyssa Walker (Casper Port of Entry), Beth Hansen (WYDOT Traffic crew – Casper) and Erin King (Casper Driver Services CDL examiner) had the honor of representing the Wyoming Department of Transportation again this year. Although this event is still in its infancy, the positive impact it has on young girls, their families and community members is long lasting.
“I am excited to watch this program grow and am grateful to be part of it,” King said.
The day began with about 10 booths set up around the perimeter of the main meeting hall, with representatives from CDL trainers, company owners, and operators available. Families gathered around as keynote speakers were introduced and welcomed everyone to the day’s events. Children and their families were then given a “scavenger hunt” checklist to help encourage the participants to visit each table and booth. Many tables brought a variety of souvenirs and candy to add to the fun.
This year, King said WYDOT set up an interactive table for the kids with a toy school bus and a toy tractor-trailer.
“We designed a backing skills course with masking tape and had the girls try their hand at backing skills,” she said. “They quickly discovered that pushing a trailer is far more challenging than pushing a school bus. The competition grew between children and the adults to see who could do it better. Many of those who tried walked away with a greater appreciation for those ‘big trucks’ they see on the road.”
Outside there were a variety of commercial vehicles represented: tractor-trailers (including a side-dump that the girls could operate), school buses, a WYDOT plow truck, a grader, a skid steer and an excavator, to name a few. The Women in Trucking Association WITney truck and trailer was also on site. The WITney trailer has been to 36 events in 25 states sharing the opportunities of careers in trucking with more than 6,800 people.
“Their interactive driving simulator was the hit of the event!” King said.
King described her favorite experience of this year’s event, which was with a young lady named Dawn.
She approached me outside and wanted to try her hand and maneuvering the plow blades and blowing that big ole air horn. The smile on her face was everything to me! She started asking questions about the many gauges, buttons and knobs inside the
(Left to right) Beth Hansen (WYDOT Traffic crew – Casper), Alyssa Walker (Casper Port of Entry), and Erin King (Casper Driver Services CDL examiner) stand with the Women in Trucking WITney Truck during the Trucks are for Girls event in Casper. The WITney trailer has been to 25 states encouraging careers in trucking.
Photo: Erin King/WYDOT
Alyssa Walker (Casper Port of Entry), Beth Hansen (WYDOT Traffic crew – Casper), and Erin King (Casper Driver Services CDL examiner) flex in front of the Women in Trucking WITney truck during the Trucks are for Girls event in Casper. King said she was proud to be part of the event and watching it grow.
Photo: Erin King/WYDOT
truck. She made note when I said, ‘air brakes’ and became inquisitive. She said her dad works on cars, so she’s familiar with brake fluid, but not anything that brakes with air. She was eager to get under the truck and asked if she could go see how things work.
Hair tucked and situated on a mechanic creeper, we rolled our way under the plow truck. She was quick to identify the air tanks.
“That’s where the air is stored for use,” I explained, and then asked, “so, where does the air go from there?”
She paused, looked around and started following the air lines.
“It goes right there!” She exclaimed.
I gave a simplified explanation of how the system worked.
“Have you ever seen a tea jar? The ones that have the little han dle on them? Turn it to the right and the tea comes out, turn it back and it stops. In these trucks, the brake opens and closes that spout.
The driver pushes on the brake, and the air comes out of the tanks and through those hoses. Let off the brake, and the air flow stops.”
I watched her face grow with excitement as it all started to make sense. Back into the cab we go! She climbs up into the seat, and I encourage her to step on the service break.
“I hear the air! That’s so cool!” she said.
As she depressed the brake, I have her watch the drop on the air gauge. By Jove, I think she’s got it!
King said her second favorite moment was when one of the chaperones wanted to interact with the WYDOT plow.
Beth Hansen walked her through the basics of the environmental monitoring devices, plow controls and gauges.
“I’m in my 60s and have always wondered how these worked,” the chaperone said. “I’m so glad these young girls are being afforded an opportunity that I never had in my youth.”
King said a special thanks goes to Jeremy Holkan from the Douglas crew for the help bringing a plow truck to both years of the event.
“They’re always spit-polished and ready to show off,” she said. “I couldn’t have done this without you!”
Photo: Erin King/WYDOT
(Left) Erin King, Casper Driver Services CDL examiner, shows Dawn the air brakes of a plow during the second annual Trucks are for Girls event in Casper. King said it was one of her favorite moments from this year’s event.
Photo: Erin King/WYDOT
Cheyenne prioritizes pedestrian safety with new HAWK crossings and safety plans
By Mark Horan
The city of Cheyenne and its community partners are taking significant steps to improve pedestrian safety around local schools.
A group of local officials and community members gathered in front of McCormick Junior High school on Nov. 7 to highlight the collaborative efforts that have led to the installation of a new high-intensity activated crosswalk, or HAWK for short, pedestrian beacon on the corner of Western Hills Way and Moccasin Avenue.
Speakers were Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins, and Janelle Jones, founder of the non-profit program ForMak. Jones’ 13-year old son Makaili “Mak” Evans died three years ago after being hit by a vehicle while using a crosswalk on his way to school. Collins praised Jones for turning a tragic situation into a positive outcome by championing pedestrian safety initiatives, education, and building valuable partnerships.
There are now three HAWK crossing systems that the city has installed near schools, which will help improve visibility and safety for students crossing busy roads.
Looking ahead, city officials and the Metropolitan Planning Organization are finalizing a plan to assess the safety needs of all schools and prioritize capital investments to enhance pedestrian safety around them. Additionally, a “Safe Streets for All” project will review the roads connecting schools to ensure they meet the highest safety standards, guiding future infrastructure invest-
ments.
“I hope this is just the beginning of what we’ll see going forward,” Collins said.
Collins also emphasized the importance of driver responsibility, urging all motorists to avoid distractions and remain vigilant when driving, especially in school zones and near pedestrian crossings.
WYDOT assisted the city of Cheyenne in obtaining federal grant funding for the new HAWK signal on Western Hills Way.
Nov. 7 in Cheyenne.
A HAWK signal is a signal-beacon designed to help pedestrians safely cross busy streets.
Photo: WYDOT
HR Happenings
Wyoming state government partners with University of Wyoming for first career week
By Stefanie Stack, State Recruiter
This fall, Wyoming state government, in partnership with the University of Wyoming, hosted its first-ever career week, bringing public service career opportunities across multiple disciplines directly to university students. Throughout the week, representatives from 27 state agencies connected with more than 300 students through a variety of events, including classroom presentations, career fair tabling, and a networking breakfast.
Our team highlighted the rewarding aspects of a career in state government, emphasizing the flexibility, job stability and the meaningful impact of serving Wyoming communities. Students learned about the diverse roles and career paths available, from environmental science to IT, fish biologist to public information officer, hydrologist to human resources associate to transportation design engineer and on and on. The opportunities to serve the great state of Wyoming seem limitless!
This event marks an exciting start to what we hope will become a regular partnership with the University of Wyoming. Thank you to everyone who helped organize and then participated in making this inaugural event a success! Your involvement plays a vital role in building a strong pipeline of future public servants for Wyoming.
Our WYDOT employees are our best recruiters. If you’d like to represent WYDOT at future career fairs, contact HR at: dot.humanresources@wyo.gov.
Your involvement helps us attract talent committed to excellence in transportation.
(Left to right) Cheyenne Engineer Kristian Cueva, Human Resources Senior Coordinator Kevin Jackson, Cheyenne Project Engineer Kahal Lattin, Laramie Design Squad Team Leader Alan Moore, and Laramie Project Engineer Sam Finkle host a WYDOT booth during the UW and state of Wyoming Career Week. Wednesday’s events were catered to the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
Photo: HRD
(Left to right) Financial Services Controller Mattie Bray and Accounting Manager Kara Poppe talk with two UW students about working at WYDOT during career week in late October.
Photo: HRD
HR Senior Coordinator Kevin Jackson and Cheyenne Project Engineer Kahal Lattin host a booth during the week-long event.
Photo: HRD
Training Enhancing workforce development: WYDOT Training Services
By Kurt Borgaard, Training Services
Within WYDOT’s Support Services Division, the Training Services Program’s support role is key in enhancing the training efforts across the organization. By assisting in the identification of vocational training needs tailored to specific job classifications, Training Services supports WYDOT’s commitment to fostering a skilled and knowledgeable workforce that meets the department’s operational needs. The following key focus areas aim to optimize WYDOT’s training initiatives, ensuring they effectively meet the needs of all employees and programs. Identifying existing required training
One fundamental aspect of Training Services is to help programs identify essential training requirements by job classification. This ensures that employees are up-to-date with the required knowledge and skills for their roles, contributing to smoother workflows and adhering to standards. By establishing a clear picture of the required training across departments, the Training Services Program can better assist programs in staying compliant, knowledgeable, and prepared.
Tracking training progress
training in place, WYDOT’s programs can remain adaptable to regulatory changes while reinforcing the organization’s reputation for reliability and safety. Training Services is dedicated to helping each program identify and fulfill these requirements. Addressing gaps and expanding competencies
TRAINING @ A GLANCE
Efficient tracking is essential for accountability and employee development, and NeoGov provides a streamlined platform for this purpose. With all training records recently migrated from the WELL system, NeoGov now centralizes completion records, outstanding requirements, and future needs, simplifying tracking and enhancing oversight. We encourage programs to utilize NeoGov Learn for vocational training tracking. For assistance, please contact Training Services.
Compliance training requirements
Compliance training is essential to maintaining alignment with state and federal regulations, making it a high priority for many programs. Identifying compliance training needs ensures that WYDOT’s standards are consistently met. With compliance
Understanding and addressing gaps in training are key to ensuring that all necessary skills are covered. Perceived gaps may arise due to evolving job demands, new technology, or changes in regulations. Training Services works with programs to identify and close these gaps, allowing for a more robust, well-rounded workforce. Closing training gaps enhances program efficiency and ensures that teams are ready to handle the challenges specific to their roles.
Training Services is here to support you and a structured, targeted approach to vocational and leadership training, ensuring that all programs benefit from a skilled, knowledgeable workforce aligned with the department’s goals. Reach out and discuss how we can assist you and your program to ensure that your employees are equipped to support WYDOT’s mission.
TRAINING @ A GLANCE
Coming in December: Start
12/3/2024 Leading the Agency
Next up in January
1/7, 14, 21/25 Leading Self
1/14/2025 Leading Self
Leadership Development Series, 3 of 3 8:30 am-4:30 pm Cheyenne
The Neuroscience of Leadership
Life Balance Series, 2 of 2 8:30 am-10:00 am Virtual Skills for Resiliency (3 virtual sessions)
The Communicative Engineer: How to Ask, 9:00 am-10:30 am TLN/Virtual Listen, Write, Speak, and Use Visuals 1/22, 23/2025 Leading the Agency Train the Trainer 8:30 am-4:30 pm Cheyenne
Check out the upcoming training opportunities from WYDOT-U and the Transportation Learning Network. Don’t forget to check out the calendar on NEOGOV to see upcoming training events!
Graphic: Carlie Dakins
TechTalk
Don’t take the bait: how to spot and stop phishing attacks
By Enterprise Technology Services
Any time is the perfect time to brush up on your phishing detection skills!
Phishing attacks are like digital fishing expeditions where cybercriminals cast out lures (fake emails, texts, or websites) hoping to hook unsuspecting victims and reel in their personal information.
We may open what we thought was a safe email, attachment or image only to find ourselves exposed to malware or a scammer looking for our personal data. The good news is we can take precautions to protect our important data. Learn to recognize the signs and report phishing to protect devices and data. Recognize the red flags
• Suspicious Sender: Is the email from a recognizable source? Be wary of unfamiliar senders or slight misspellings in email addresses.
• Urgent or Threatening Language: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency or fear, pressuring you to act quickly without thinking.
• Too Good to be True Offers: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of emails promising prizes, lottery winnings, or incredible deals.
• Grammar and Spelling Errors: Legitimate organizations usually have good quality control. Numerous errors are a red flag.
• Requests for Personal Information: No reputable organization will ask for your passwords, Social Security number, or bank ing details via email or text.
• Suspicious Links or Attachments: Hover your mouse over links to see the actual destination. Don’t click on links or open attachments from unknown senders. Avoid getting hooked
• Think Before You Click: Take a moment to consider the email’s legitimacy before clicking anything.
THE TEXT CAN WAIT
• Verify the Sender: If you’re unsure, contact the organization directly using a known phone number or website, not the information in the email.
• Check the Website Address: Look for “https” and a padlock icon in the address bar to ensure the website is secure.
• Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
• Keep Your Software Updated: Updates often include security patches that protect against phishing attacks.
What to do if you suspect phishing
Don’t Click or Reply: Avoid interacting with the suspicious email or text in any way.
Report the phishing attempt:
• To your email provider: Most email providers have a “report phishing” button.
• To the Anti-Phishing Working Group: Forward the email to reportphishing@apwg.org.
• To the Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Report the incident at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Delete the Message: Remove the phishing email or text from
Murder mystery supervisor meeting
Driver Services held their supervisor meeting in early October, which included a murder mystery team building exercise. Director Darin Westby (left photo) and Deputy Director Taylor Rossetti (right photo) were a few minutes early for their portion of the meeting and decided to join in on the murder mystery fun!
Cheri “Muffie” Fagin described what happened next: “We gave them fun glasses and leis to wear, which they wore the whole time they were with us. We did the big reveal of who the murder victim was; she dropped to the floor dramatically, and the look on their faces was priceless!” She added that once they realized it wasn’t a real medical emergency, they had a good visit – and a good laugh. Team building can be fun!
U.S. Forest Service Winter pile burning to begin on Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests
Existing slash piles will be burned during the coming months, using snow for holding
By Aaron Voos, U.S. Forest Service Public Affairs
LARAMIE – Oct. 31, 2024 – Snow conditions, both current and forecasted, sufficiently exist to allow U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service fire personnel on the Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests to begin slash pile burning in coming weeks/months.
Existing piles are typically a result of fuels reduction projects on the two National Forests in Colorado and Wyoming. Pile burning removes undesirable fuels for long-term public safety and for years has been an important part of the USDA Forest Service fire/fuels annual program of work.
Forest users and the public should expect to see smoke throughout the upcoming months. Piles may be burned near communities, travel routes, and popular recreation areas. The burning of highly visible piles will be advertised closer to ignition and questions should be directed to local Forest Service offices.
Fall/winter conditions allow for accomplishment of most annual pile burning by the Forests; however some burning does occur other times of the year when fuel and weather conditions allow. Both pile burning and broadcast prescribed fire are possible throughout the year.
Broad public notification of site-specific burning will occur on the Forests’ X and Facebook accounts. On-the-ground signage is often placed on adjacent roads for public notification.
In recent years, the two Forests have completed many management projects to improve forest health, reducing hazardous fuels generated from the bark beetle epidemic through harvest and hand thinning activities. Fuels remaining in these areas are typically gathered into piles either mechanically or by hand or scattered across the treatment unit.
Fire managers monitor weather forecasts several days prior to ignitions. Burns are only initiated within established parameters for safe, effective fires. Snow cover, precipitation, and available firefighter staffing are all considered before burning. Predicted weather needs to allow for safe burning and the elimination of any threat of fire spreading to surrounding vegetation.
Each prescribed burn planned by the Forests has gone through an environmental analysis and has a detailed burn plan developed in advance.
Smoke from all prescribed fires is closely monitored to ensure that conditions for smoke dispersal, developed in collaboration with the Colorado Air Pollution/Control Division and Wyoming Air Quality Division, are being met. These conditions reduce likelihood of undesired smoke impacts to public health.
Additional information may be found on the U.S. Forest Service website. Call or visit your local office for site-specific information.
Photo: Cheri Fagin/WYDOT
Photo: Cheri Fagin/WYDOT
Life comes with challenges. Your Assistance Program is here to help.
Your Assistance Program can help you reduce stress, improve mental health, and make life easier by connecting you to the right information, resources, and referrals.
All services are free, confidential, and available to you and your family members. This includes access to short-term counseling and the wide range of services listed below:
Mental Health Sessions
Manage stress, anxiety, and depression, resolve conflict, improve relationships, and address any personal issues. Choose from in-person sessions, video counseling, or telephonic counseling.
Life Coaching
Reach personal and professional goals, manage life transitions, overcome obstacles, strengthen relationships, and achieve greater balance.
Financial Consultation
Build financial wellness related to budgeting, buying a home, paying off debt, resolving general tax questions, preventing identity theft, and saving for retirement or tuition.
Legal Referrals
Receive referrals for personal legal matters including estate planning, wills, real estate, bankruptcy, divorce, custody, and more.
Work-Life Resources and Referrals
Obtain information and referrals when seeking childcare, adoption, special needs support, eldercare, housing, transportation, education, and pet care.
Personal Assistant
Save time with referrals for travel and entertainment, seeking professional services, cleaning services, home food delivery, and managing everyday tasks.
Medical Advocacy
Get help navigating insurance, obtaining doctor referrals, securing medical equipment, and planning for transitional care and discharge.
Member Portal
Access your benefits 24/7/365 through your member portal with online requests and chat options. Explore thousands of self-help tools and resources including articles, assessments, podcasts, and resource locators. Contact AllOne Health Call: 888-218-7360
Visit: fei.mylifeexpert.com
Code: SOWY1
District News
Headquarters
Welcome
Anna Alverson, Planning-Local Government Coordination; Keaton Marsh, Traffic; Kaleb Sanchez, Geology; and Angela Tapia, Office Services-Mailroom.
Promotions and Transfers
Erin Pendleton, Procurement Services-Administration; Jamie Schwaiger, Highway Safety; Thomas Scott, GIS/ITS; Caleb Sells, Bridge-Engineering Design; and Ashley Whitehead, Budget.
Service Awards
Vince Garcia, GIS/ITS – 40 years; Deborah McInerney, Budget – 20 years; Seth Wittke, Geology – 20 years; Benoit Cordoba, Bridge-Operations Design – 15 years; Nicholas Gronski, Procurement Services-Buying – 10 years; Samuel Brackett, Planning-Local Government Coordination – 5 years; Alan Julian, Aeronautics-Flight Operations – 5 years; Michael Whisenhunt, Driver Services-CDL – 5 years; Emily Worthan, Right of Way-Property Management – 5 years.
District 1
Welcome
Danielle Brewer, Driver Services-Laramie; Robert Dupont, Elk Mountain Maintenance; Colby Heward, Elk Mountain Maintenance; Justin Irene, Medicine Bow Maintenance; Tyler Motis, Cheyenne Maintenance; Marie Perez, Rawlins Construction; and McKenzie Snyder, Pine Bluffs Maintenance.
Promotions and Transfers
William Hassler, District 1 Administration; and KC Ramsey, Patrol-Operations.
Service Awards
Leslie French, Medicine Bow Maintenance – 20 years; Gary Martinez, Elk Mountain Maintenance – 10 years; Jordan Meadows, Laramie Construction – 10 years; Billy Zeiger, Saratoga Maintenance – 10 years; Angela Kennedy, Rawlins Construction – 5 years; and Jeremiah Rogers, Rawlins Maintenance – 5 years.
District Engineer
congratulates Rawlins Shop Foreman Issac “Russ” Whitaker on his 5-year service award.
WHP Col. Tim Cameron congratulates Maj. KC Ramsey on his promotion.
Photo: Mark Horan/WYDOT
Ralph Tarango
Photo: Andrea Staley/WYDOT
Tapia
Garcia
Cordoba
Worthan
Martinez
Zeiger
Rogers French
Meadows
Kennedy
Heward
Motis
Snyder
Dupont
Irene
Perez
District 1 Community
Cheyenne Heavy Equipment Operator Ken Sharp is interviewed for a news story about snow plow safety.
District Engineer Ralph Tarango, District Construction Engineer Ryan Shields, and Cheyenne Project Engineers Kristian Cueva and Bryce Sanchez attend the city of Cheyenne’s ribbon cutting for the US 30/Cheyenne Greenway underpass.
District 2
Welcome
Kane Carlson, Casper Construction; Thomas Nolan, Douglas Maintenance; Saleena Orozco, Casper Maintenance; and Ethan Redfern, Douglas Construction.
Promotions and Transfers
Preston Dickerson, Shirley Rim Maintenance.
Service Awards
District 3
Welcome
Dakota Bird, Evanston Maintenance; Laura Blackburn, Kemmerer Maintenance; and Jesse Green, Cokeville Maintenance.
Promotions and Transfers
Edward Reish, District 2 Construction Staff – 35 years; Zachary Armstrong, Casper Mechanics – 5 years; Robert Kreider, Casper Maintenance –5 years; and Serina Petty, Driver Services-Casper – 5 years.
Maintenance Supervisor Kenneth Pantier (left) and District 2 Traffic Engineer Brooke Allen (center) present Maintenance Specialist Dave Cullison with his 10 year service award.
Retirements
William Burt, a highway maintenance technician with District 2 in Lusk, retired in October with 17 years of service.
Greg Cantlin, Lyman Maintenance; Deny Leonard, Lyman Maintenance; and James Stevens, Kemmerer Construction.
Service Awards
Brian Beckermann, Rock Springs Mechanics – 5 years.
Retirements
Scott Lym, a highway maintenance technician with District 3 in Evanston, retired in October with 17 years of service.
District 4
Welcome
Terry Cheairs, Gillette Maintenance; Keegan Gaffield, Gillette Maintenance; Chloe Hanzlik, Port of Entry-Sundance; Samantha Mitchell, Driver Services-Gillette; Robert Romero, Sheridan Maintenance-Guardrail; and Anthony Williamson, Gillette Maintenance.
Photo: Andrea Staley/WYDOT
Photo: Andrea Staley/WYDOT
Photo: WYDOT
Nolan Redfern
Dickerson
Burt
Reish
Krieder
Armstrong
Carlson Orozco
Leonard Cantlin
Williamson Cheairs
Gaffield
Promotions and Transfers
Daniel Hite, Patrol-Gillette.
Service Awards
Jeremey Frisbie, District 4 Maintenance Staff – 15 years; Zachary Martini, Port of Entry-Sheridan – 5 years; Jason Robinson, Patrol-Gillette – 5 years.
Retirements
Brian Helwig, a highway maintenance technician with District 4 in Sundance, retired in October with one year of service.
District 5
Welcome
William Holman, Cody Maintenance. Promotions and Transfers
Joseph Alexander, Lander Mechanics.
Service Awards
Bryan Myers, Worland Construction – 15 years; Mark Wiener, Dubois Maintenance – 15 years; and Robert McConnell, Patrol-Lander – 5 years.
Retirements
Wesly Hust, a senior heavy mechanic with District 5 in Lander, retired in October with 17 years of service. Hust also spent time with WYDOT as a mechanic in Dubois, and also served with Dubois Search and Rescue. In his spare time, Hust enjoys hunting, fishing and anything else he can do outdoors.
Congratulations to our October recipients!
We salute the following Director’s Extra Mile Award recipients. This award is presented to individuals who have “traveled the extra mile” in service of WYDOT.
Brittany Branson Elizabeth Hansen Erin King
Alyssa Walker
For more information about the Extra Mile Award or to nominate an employee, contact dot.humanresources@wyo.gov
Total number of employees: As of Oct. 28, 2024 1,817 One month ago 1,814 One year ago 1,778 Total number of highway fatalities: As of Nov. 1, 2024 84 One year ago 100
Hite
Martini Robinson Frisbie
Helwig
Wiener
Hust Myers
McConnell
Motor Vehicle Services outstanding customer service
Dear Ms. Thoughtful (Shanda Rice),
Just wanted you to know how much your outstanding customer service helped me out yesterday!
By explaining where the DMV License Renewal Office was and by assisting me in getting an appointment online, I was finished in under 30 minutes!
Your excellent effort are appreciated extremely much! Ms. Directionally/Instructionally Challenged
Kudos for the 511 phone system
Hi,
I just wanted to tell you guys, I really appreciate this [511] service. It informed us what we needed to know so we could leave early enough before it started snowing after Douglas and up to Casper. It’s very informative and I appreciate you. Whoever’s getting this message, I hope you have a good rest of your day.
Thank you so much again.
[Caller did not leave name]
Halloween Hijinks
Brittany Branson and Preston Dickerson D2 Maintenance participated in the Oil CIty Dyno Trick or Treat Trail in Casper on Oct. 26, 2024. Fun times were had by all!
and
Cheyenne HQ on Halloween. He’s seen below getting ready to shovel, (above inset) checking the first-aid kit, and enjoying lunch – although we’re not sure how he was able to keep food down. A handful of Construction staff enjoyed taking photos of Skelly-John’s adventures around the building. It was a fun way to spread some Halloween cheer.
Costumed Headquarters staff show their Halloween spirit.
Photo: Matt Groth/WYDOT
Photo:
WYDOT Skelly-John, a skeleton resembling
created by WYDOT Custodian John Hodge, made his way around
Photo: Christina Fisher
Photos: Christina Fisher
Passings
Donald C. Fuller
Donald C. Fuller, 73, of Cheyenne, died on Oct. 27, 2024 in Cheyenne. He was born on Nov. 21, 1950, in Lafayette, Indiana.
Fuller worked as resident engineer for the Wyoming Department of Transportation for more than 30 years.
He was an avid baseball fan and beloved youth baseball coach. He loved camping and traveling with his wife, Sandi. Fuller was a passionate reader and spent a lot of free time reading.
Services were held Nov. 4 at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel with a reception immediately following at The Gathering Place.
Lawrence G. Pitmon
Larry Pitmon, 79, died Oct. 27, 2024, at Davis Hospice. He was born Oct. 28, 1944, in Doniphan, Missouri, to Sol and Clara Pitmon.
Pitmon retired in October 2009 from Driver Services-CDL after 43 years of service to the state. At Pitmon’s request, there were no services.
Gerald E. Tift
attended the Milwaukee School of Engi neering and graduated with emphasis in electrical and refrigeration. He worked in the electrical field for a short time before attending Black Hills State, in South Dakota. After graduating from Black Hills, he went to work for the Wyoming Highway Department in Buffalo January 1961. During his time at the WTD, WY DOT’s predecessor agency, he obtained his professional engineer license in civil engineering. He retired from WYDOT following 30 years of service to the state. He sold real estate for several years after leaving WYDOT. After retiring Tift continued living in Buffalo until his death.
Tift enjoyed spending time at his cabin in the Big Horn Mountains which he built himself. He was a licensed pilot and owned two airplanes, as well as a charter member No. 124 of the Wyoming Pilot’s Association. He was a life member of the American Legion and the VFW; the Sheridan Kalif Shrine and the B.P.O.E. of Sheridan. He enjoyed his independence
Gerald “Jerry” Eugene Tift, 92, passed away suddenly at his home in Buffalo. Tift was born on Sept. 6, 1932, in Sheridan, Wyoming to Leonard and Gretta (Bobbitt) Tift. He grew up and went to school in Sheridan and graduated from Sheridan High School with the class of 1950. After graduating he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Korean Conflict. He received an honorable discharge and
Fuller
Pitmon
Tift
WTDEA Employee Relief Fund supports WYDOT community
Strong partnership with local credit union helps those in need
By Mark Horan
The Employee Relief Fund program, administered by the Wyoming Transportation Department Employees’ Association grew substantially stronger in October thanks to a $2,500 donation from WyHy Federal Credit Union.
The Relief Fund program allows active Wyoming Department of Transportation employees experiencing a sudden financial crisis or hardship to apply for up to $1,500 in assistance, contingent upon approval from the Relief Fund Board.
WYDOT Relief Fund Treasurer Audrey Hobbs estimates that approximately 114 employees have received financial assistance in the last 10 years.
WyHy FCU has made generous donations to the Relief Fund for many years and WYDOT is grateful for their continued support.
The Relief Fund has helped 14 fellow employees this year totaling $12,250.00 as of Aug. 31, 2024.
It’s interesting to note that WyHy FCU was established in 1953 by seven Wyoming Highway Department employees with $5 each. The employees sought an easier way for their co-workers to obtain small low-interest loans, which were expensive and hard to get through larger banks.
Initially, WhHy services were only available to Highway Department employees. WyHy eventually opened their membership to “anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in our great State of Wyoming,” and have grown to over 20,000 members and five branches throughout Wyoming, according to their website. Although WyHy has broadened their clientele, they still have WYDOT employees that serve on their Board today.
In addition to WyHy’s contribution, the Relief Fund is supported by proceeds from WTDEA’s annual cash calendar fundraiser, as well as employee contributions. There are currently
only around 130 employees who donate to the Relief Fund, but WTDEA would like to see that number increase. Employees are encouraged to consider donating $1 per month to this great cause.
“This fund has helped several families pay for hotel expenses and or miscellaneous expenses while taking care of themselves or a loved family member,” Hobbs said. “When you have an unplanned emergency hit you, any help is welcome.”
Initially overseen by the WTDEA State Board, the Relief Fund has since been taken over by WTDEA Headquarters Chapter. A board made up of five WYDOT employees reviews applications as they come in and makes the determination to approve or deny requests.
If you have any questions about the Relief Fund program, to apply for assistance, or if you’d like to make a contribution, please contact a WTDEA representative from the HQ chapter, or visit the WTDEA Relief Fund page on the intranet: https://employees. dot.state.wy.us/home/wtdea/state-board-information.html. Relief Fund rules can be found in WYDOT Personnel Procedures 4-23.
Halloween coloring contest winners
The annual HQ Chapter Halloween coloring contest winners were chosen out of a variety of entries from all ages. The winners are as follows:
In the 3 and Under category: first place – Parker Horan (Mark Horan, Public Affairs).
The 3 and under (left) and Ages 4 to 6 entries.
Ages 4 to 6 category: first place – Bennett Schutzman (Adam Schutzman, Aeronautics); second place – Luxon Bray (Mattie Bray,
Financial Services); and third place – Cannon Ferree (Shannon Ferree, Compliance and Investigation).
Ages 7 to 9 category: first place – Aven Spilker (Pat Bennett, Materials); second place – Madilynn Heigis (Anthony Flores, Materials); and Finn Schutzman (Adam Schutzman, Aeronautics).
Ages 10 to 12 category: first place – Galena Mordahl (Justin Mordahl, Geology).
Ages 13 and up category: first place – Holly Garrison (Public Affairs); and second place – Bailey Ferree (Shannon Ferree, Compliance and Investigation).
From left: WYDOT Director Darin Westby; WTDEA Employee Relief Fund Treasurer Audrey Hobbs; WTDEA Vice-Chair Chris Fisher; WyHy President/CEO Bill Willingham III; WyHy Member Services Manager Heidi Culek; and WyHy Board Chair/WTDEA Treasurer Pam Fredrick.
Photo: Mark Horan/WYDOT
This yellow 1967 Pontiac GTO belongs to retiree Todd Greenamyre. The lucky lady in the image holds a trophy for all to see.
Photo: Todd Greenamyre
Torrington retiree Todd Greenamyre owns this 1968 Lincoln Continental. The classic car had been a Father’s Day gift
Photo: Todd Greenamyre
Todd Gree-
Photo: Todd Greenamyre
Cash will be pooled for new bicycles or gear and all remaining cash will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Cheyenne.
To donate, bring new bicycles or cash donations to the Public Affairs Office.
Now-Dec. 18, 2024
Break Time
Mittens
M B E R W A I S L L B E M A G I C A G A I I N
Y I T S L C O L T J D O U T S I D E W I N T N E R H W
