Interchange July 2020
Vol. 48, Issue 7
Sand barrel array active on Teton Pass System in place to stop runaway vehicles
A sand barrel array stands in place of the catch-net vehicle arrestor system which is being modified for WYO 22/Teton Pass.
Sand barrel array temporarily replaces the catch-net system for runaway vehicles JACKSON – The new sand barrel array system to stop runaway vehicles was active by May 30 on WYO 22/Teton Pass. The sand barrel array system is located within the existing catch-net vehicle arrestor system, which is being modified and re-opened later this summer. The barrels, which are filled with various levels of soft, sand material, disperse after being struck by a vehicle and slow the vehicle to a stop. Recently, WYDOT opened up WYO 22/Teton Pass to trailer traffic under a
60,000 lbs gross vehicle weight. WYDOT also lowered the maximum speed limit on the pass and closed the parking area on top of the pass to use it as a mandatory brake check area for vehicles. The maximum posted speed on WYO 22/ Teton Pass was reduced from 55 mph to 45 mph for trucks. Dynamic message signs are used to notify drivers of the brake inspection station at the Teton Pass Summit pullout. These additional restrictions are still in place in conjunction with the active sand
barrel array system. Parking is actively restricted until the catch-net arrestor system is functional again. Currently, there is only one escape ramp open on WYO 22/Teton Pass, located at milepost 8.2, which is approximately a mile above the current closed vehicle arrestor. The Wyoming Highway Patrol increased patrols in the area and the Weighin-Motion system (WIM) on Teton Pass continues to notify authorities when vehicles are over the 60,000 lbs restriction.
Contents
Interchange
Features
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.
10 Transportation Commissioner retires Pfrangle retires as northwest Wyoming Commissioner
11 Gov. Gordon appoints new Commissioner Greg Venable appointed to Transportation Commission
Vol. 48, Issue 7
Staff WYDOT Director:
Also in this issue
K. Luke Reiner
District briefs........................................................................ 1, 3
Public Affairs Manager: Doug McGee
By the Numbers..................................................................6, 7
Editor:
Noteworthy................................................................................9
Contributors:
Extra Mile Awards....................................................................9 Training.....................................................................................11 District news...........................................................................12 Letters.......................................................................................12 Passings....................................................................................14 WTDEA......................................................................................15
Carlie Van Winkle Aimee Inama Carlie Van Winkle Jordan Achs Jeff Goetz Stephanie Harsha Laura Dalles Cody Beers Sgt. Jeremy Beck
Photography: Rick Carpenter
Public Affairs Public Affairs District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 Patrol Public Affairs
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.
Outdoors..................................................................................17 Break Time...............................................................................19
Kindly recycle this publication after reading.
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A WYDOT PUBLICATION
From Public Affairs Interchange goes retro Dear Readers, As you may have noticed, we’ve revamped the Interchange. Although there are minor changes, you will still continue to get the latest department information so you can stay informed on what’s happening. We decided to change the Interchange as a cost-savings measure. As with many programs within the department, the Public Affairs Office is looking for ways to save money while still
providing the same level of service. We feel the Interchange’s new look and feel accomplishes just that and hope our publication will continue to serve as a communications tool for years to come. Thank you for reading the Interchange. If you have any feedback, please contact Carlie Van Winkle at carlie.vanwinkle@wyo. gov. Sincerely, Doug McGee
District Briefs District 1
WYDOT Driver Services Office in Laramie temporarily closes LARAMIE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation temporarily closed the Driver Services Office in Laramie on June 29 due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19 and to deep clean the office. The office was closed for the rest of the day. WYDOT officials worked to reopen the office as quickly and safely as possible. Reopening was also dependent upon staff availability. The other examiners in Laramie are currently being tested for coronavirus. “I’m grateful for the timely response from our Employee Safety Office and the cleaning contractor for getting the office in Laramie ready for reopening,” said WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner. “We are working to ensure our employees and our customers are safe.” Cleaning crews performed an in-depth cleaning of the building, which was completed on June 29. Reiner said he appreciates the employee’s quick action to get tested to ensure the safety of everyone. “We are also grateful for the employee who recognized their situation, quickly got tested and notified their supervisor,” Reiner said. “Our continued prayers are with that employee who tested positive and their family for a speedy recovery.” The Wyoming Department of Health worked with WYDOT to contact those
who may have been exposed to the examiner. Officials have asked WYDOT for a list of the people the employee came into contact during road tests on Thursday and Friday before the examiner started showing symptoms so they can follow up with those individuals. WYDOT’s Driver Services offices throughout the state have implemented safety and cleaning protocols since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Driver Services employees wipe down their stations with cleaners after each transaction and have plexiglass barriers at their desks to provide separation between themselves and the customers. Additionally, examiners wipe down the vehicles used for road testing and also wear masks and require all applicants to wear masks as well. Customers who need to conduct business at Driver Services are asked to visit a nearby office. For the locations, visit WYDOT’s Driver Services webpage.
Crews temporarily close 15th Street bridge over I-80 for patching LARAMIE – Maintenance crews with the Wyoming Department of Transportation temporarily closed the 15th Street bridge over I-80 for pavement patching work. The closure was on June 22. Please note the schedule is subject to change, including due to weather conditions or equipment availability.
Travelers and commuters should plan an alternate route to their destinations until the pavement work is complete. Emergency Services will have access to cross the bridge if necessary. This work is part of a larger milling and paving maintenance project taking place in various locations around Albany County this month.
Permanent traffic signals installed at WYO 210, I-25, F.E. Warren Air Force Base Gate 2 CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation continues to partner with F.E. Warren Air Force Base officials to improve safety and traffic flow near the Happy Jack Road base entrance. Crews with Advanced Electrical Contracting Inc. and WYDOT began work June 22 to install permanent traffic signal systems at the intersections of WYO 210 (Happy Jack Road), the nearby I-25 offand on-ramps and the Gate 2 entrance to the base. The permanent signal systems are replacing the temporary traffic signals currently at the intersections. Work will pause for the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird Air Show at the base in July. Delays were expected until the project wraps up at the end of August. Temporary lane closures, detours and other traffic control measures are in place during the Briefs continued on page 4 July 2020
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LARAMIE – Maintenance crews with the Wyoming Department of Transportation began milling and paving operations in various locations around Albany County on June 1. Crews milled portions of the I-80 service road and US 30/287 north of Laramie. Once milling was completed, paving began in those areas, starting with US 30/287 on June 14. Crews also paved portions of WYO 130, including near Lake Hattie and just outside of Centennial. Pavement patching was completed on
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CHEYENNE – WYDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) hosted a virtual public meeting to review the Environmental Assessment (EA) for the I-25/I-80 Interchange Project beginning June 29 and ending July 1. As part of the virtual meeting, a live comment event also occurred June 30 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. for members of the public to present questions and concerns in front of their peers and the project team. In addition to soliciting input and comments on the EA, the virtual public meeting also provided information on project history, transportation needs for the project, and WYDOT’s anticipated next steps.
Milling, paving underway around Albany County
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I-25/I-80 Interchange virtual meeting; environmental assessment available
CHEYENNE – Starting June 4, the I-25 northbound on-ramp from Central Avenue was temporarily closed while crews with Simon Contractors and WYDOT worked on slab repairs. The closure lasted about a week. Crews first cut, demoed and removed the current slabs and then poured new ones. The new slabs needed time to cure and gain strength before the ramp was reopened. The off-ramp from I-25 northbound to Central Avenue (exit 12) is now open after being temporarily closed for repairs the last week of May. The work is part of a larger slab repair and overlay project underway on I-25 between the Randall and Horse Creek interchanges, which is expected to be complete at the end of November.
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Cen tra lA ve . Exit 12
The last ramp at the Central Ave. and I-25 interchange finished up slab repair work in early June. The other three were repaired in May.
Crews temporarily close some interchange ramps on I-25, I-80 CHEYENNE — Motorists experienced detours and delays as crews temporarily closed some I-25 and I-80 interchange ramps for slab repairs that
Photo: WYDOT
CHEYENNE – The Vandehei Avenue on-ramp to I-25 northbound was temporarily closed as crews with Simon Contractors and the Wyoming Department of Transportation completed slab repairs. The ramp was closed for 10 days. Crews first cut and removed the current slabs and then poured new ones. The new slabs needed time to cure and gain enough strength before the ramp was reopened. The work is part of a larger slab repair and overlay project underway on I-25 between the Randall and Horse Creek interchanges, which is expected to be complete at the end of November.
I-25 northbound on-ramp from Central Avenue temporarily closed for slab repairs
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Northbound I-25 on-ramp from Vandehei Avenue temporarily closed for slab repairs
portions of the 15th Street bridge over I-80 in Laramie. All milling and paving schedules are subject to change, including due to inclement weather conditions and material availability.
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project. Gate 2 became the main entrance to the base after F.E. Warren AFB officials closed Gate 1, off Randall Avenue and Pershing Boulevard, in July 2019. The change to Gate 2 has allowed for improved security and safety for Airmen and families as well as ample space to safely handle surges in traffic during busy hours.
The EA document is currently available for public review and comment. It can be found online at: http://www.i25i80. com/. It is also available for viewing at WYDOT Headquarters and the Cheyenne Metropolitan Planning Organization. All comments must be received during the 30-day comment period between June 8 and July 7. After the 30-day comment period, WYDOT and FHWA will review comments received before issuing a final decision on the EA. Responses to comments will be included in the decision document and posted on the project website. The I-25/I-80 interchange is a transportation focal point that facilitates the movement of people and goods on a local, regional and national level. With no major improvements made since its construction in the 1960s, the interchange needs to be brought up to current interstate safety and mobility standards. The project proposes a full replacement of the existing I-25/I-80 interchange, as well as a full replacement of the I-25/ Lincolnway interchange because of its proximity to the I-25/I-80 interchange. The purpose of the project is to improve safety, accommodate future traffic volumes and support local development. Public involvement is a critical component of the process required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). NEPA helps agencies to integrate environmental values into their decision making processes by considering the environmental impacts of the proposed actions. For more information about NEPA, visit www.epa.gov/compliance/nepa.
Bis ho pB lvd .
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began May 26. On I-25, contractors worked on repairs to the off-ramp at exit 8B that guides northbound motorists as they exit to drive westbound on I-80. On I-80, crews worked on repairs to the off-ramp at exit 359A that guides westbound motorists as they exit to travel southbound on I-25. The closures lasted about 14 days. Detours for both closures used US 30 (Lincolnway) with signs in place to guide motorists. The ramp work is part of a district-wide slab repair project that wrapped up at the end of June.
been completed or is nearing completion. Croell Inc. was awarded the $11 million contract last year to improve WYO 59 and its junction with I-25. Work began early April with dirt excavation and grading at the junction with I-25 business loop (exit 140). Improvements include turn lanes, softening of turns at the intersection, new signals, reworking the interchange ramps and a right turn island. The project runs from milepost 0 – which is the intersection of the I-25 ramps, Center Street and WYO 59 – north to milepost 8.75, which is near Antelope Creek, just past Converse County Road 42, north of Douglas.
time, high-priority or urgent overweight loads. WYDOT takes each request and evaluates all options and alternatives for that load and approves crossings on a case-by-case basis. These exceptions are not intended to be for daily or weekly crossings. Requests could take up to a week for approval.
District 2 Photo: WYDOT
Paving underway on sections of highway throughout the district.
Photo: WYDOT
New load restrictions in place for the Snake River bridge on WYO 22 near Jackson.
CASPER – Between the last weeks of May and the end of this paving season, District 2 will lay approximately 23,000 tons of asphalt on 15 highways, including portions of US 20/26, US 85 and WYO 487 and WYO 191, among others. Each section paved covers about one mile, targeting areas where the highways would benefit from the overlays the most. Every station within District 2 will have some portion of their highways overlaid this season.
Much of the dirt work was completed on WYO 59 in Douglas in preparation for new pavement and turn lanes on the city’s north side.
District 3
Photo: WYDOT
WYDOT working to open Snake River bridge to heavier loads
The D2 paving crew, Ryan Schneider, Craig Graves, Dan Anderson, Susan Walter and Kevin Ramsey resurfaces the frontage road just south of Chugwater June 10-11.
Reconstruction, rehabilitation continues on WYO 59 in Douglas DOUGLAS – Work continues on the reconstruction and rehabilitation of WYO 59 in Douglas. Much of the dirt work has
JACKSON – After a recent safety inspection of the Snake River Bridge on WYO 22 near the intersection of WYO 390, WYDOT began restricting heavier loads from crossing the structure. However, WYDOT worked to address the economic and transportation needs of local businesses that need to take heavier machinery and loads across the bridge. The Wyoming Transportation Commission recently dedicated funds to let a contract for repairs to the Snake River Bridge. With the scheduled improvements, the bridge will be able to accommodate normal operations until its replacement in 2023. The contract repair work will take a few months and hopefully conclude this fall. With the current restrictions, WYDOT is working with local businesses and drivers to accommodate one trip, one
WYDOT replaced weigh-in-motion sensors on Teton Pass JACKSON – The Wyoming Department of Transportation changed the roadway sensors for the weigh-in-motion on WYO 22 on June 23-24. The sensors are located near milepost 17 and crews had the road reduced to one-lane, with alternating traffic. To perform the work, crews had to close one lane at a time to replace the sensors in the road. Motorists were flagged through the work zone in alternating directions.
WYDOT Wilson bridge inspection caused delays JACKSON – The Wyoming Department of Transportation performed bridge repairs on the Wilson bridge on WYO 22 June 16-18. Work occurred from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on each day. To perform the work, crews brought in a snooper truck, pick-up trucks and other equipment onto the bridge deck. These trucks took up a single lane, reducing traffic to one lane over the bridge. Motorists were flagged across the bridge Briefs continued on page 6 July 2020
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Briefs continued from page 5
Flat Creek work continues through July; work begins on Stinking Springs bridge JACKSON – WYDOT will not be completing phase 1 work on the Flat Creek bridge on West Broadway by the original estimated date of June 20. Due to several issues affecting the estimated completion date including change orders and delayed delivery of materials related to COVID-19, the estimated completion for phase 1 has been pushed to mid-July. Businesses throughout the project limits are limited to right-in, right-out at their approaches and access to Hoback Sports and Dollar Tree from Broadway will be closed for the duration of the work. Customers can access those businesses from the approach on Flat Creek Drive. Work on stage 1 began in April. Stage 2 begins starting Sept. 15, in order to avoid the summer congestion. The project scope includes extensive rehabilitation work to the deck and abutments, as well as other miscellaneous work. The work is part of district-wide bridge rehabilitation project. The project was awarded to Cannon Builders Inc. WYDOT and contract crews began work on the bridge over the Hoback River (Stinking Springs) at milepost 158 on US 189/191 on June 15.
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Work on the Flat Creek bridge continues through July after scheduling changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Total number of employees: As of June 2, 2020
1,957
One month ago
WYDOT closes Swinging Bridge for work
1,965
ROCK SPRINGS – The Wyoming Department of Transportation closed Swinging Bridge Road for two days on June 16 and 17 to conduct drilling and sample collection to learn about the subsurface conditions. The work took place from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days. The road and bridge was open at night during the two days. The bridge is scheduled for replacement in 2023.
One year ago
1,950
load limit to help protect the bridge until it can be replaced. • For single unit trucks with two to three axles, the gross vehicle weight (GVW) is restricted to 20 tons, or 40,000 lbs. • For single unit trucks with four to five axles, the GVW is restricted to 25 tons, or 50,000 lbs.
Photo: WYDOT
Photo: WYDOT
WYDOT inspected and performed repairs on the Wilson bridge on WYO 22 mid June.
Photo: WYDOT
The work is similar to Flat Creek and will carry through the summer construction season. Traffic was controlled by portable traffic signals for alternating one-way traffic at this location.
in alternating directions. Crews expected delays of up to 15 minutes, but delays could vary with traffic congestion.
Swinging Bridge Road saw closures during drilling and sample collecting prior to its replacement in 2023.
Snake River bridge began new load restrictions JACKSON – After a recent safety inspection, the Snake River Bridge on WYO 22 near the intersection of WYO 390 began new load limitations for trucks. The bridge shows additional signs of deterioration and WYDOT implemented a
• For single unit trucks with six or more axles, the GVW is restricted to 31 tons, or 62,000 lbs. Semi-trailer and truck/trailer combinations are limited to 36 tons, or 72,000 lbs. Drivers should note that WYO 22 Teton Pass is restricted to vehicles weighing less than 60,000 GVW. Bridges are inspected every two years, to make sure they are in working condition and to note any potential repairs. The data collected in the inspection is used in WYDOT’s bridge management system to help prioritize work across the state. The Snake River Bridge is currently in the planning phases of construction and is set for replacement starting in spring of 2023.
Total number of highway fatalities: As of June 19, 2020
37
One year ago
73
Chip Seal work causes delays in Sweetwater, Uinta counties ROCK SPRINGS – The Wyoming Department of Transportation and contract crews from H-K Contractors conducted chip seal work just north of Rock Springs on US 191 beginning June 1. The work lasted about a week. During chip seal operations, traffic was carried through the work areas at reduced speeds on a single-lane using flaggers and pilot cars. Delays lasted 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Chip seal work is necessary to help prolong the life span of a pavement and motorists safer. “A chip seal is done to keep water from penetrating the paved surfaces and causing damage, and it also provides a skid-resistant surface,” WYDOT project engineer Jacob Kroupa said. Following the work on US 191, crews moved to Interstate 80 north and south service roads, as well as WYO 530 south of Green River. Chip seal work also took place in the Bridger Valley on WYO 411,
Concrete repairs cause closures on Belt Loop ROCK SPRINGS – The Wyoming Department of Transportation, with contract crews from DeBernardi Construction Company, closed sections of WYO 376, the Rock Springs south side belt route, to perform isolated concrete repairs as part of a larger district wide contract beginning after May 26. The work is split into two phases, but due to scheduling changes, some work took place simultaneously on both phases beginning June 1. As part of phase 1, the belt route is closed at the Blair Avenue/Walnut Street intersection. The closure lasted roughly three weeks. Crews moved on to phase 2, where the belt route was closed at the James Drive/Prairie Avenue intersection. The work should also last roughly 2-3 weeks. WYDOT encourages local drivers to plan accordingly and search alternative routes to their destinations in these areas.
milepost 65 and were escorted through the milling operation by a pilot car. In addition to the eleven mile paving project, Johnson County Road and Bridge will utilize a cooperative agreement with WYDOT to pave a half mile section of CR3/Hazelton Road at mile marker 65. This cooperative agreement, acquired through an Authority to Render Services (ARS) allows Johnson County to conduct work within the state highway system while WYDOT has an active project within the area. In this case, WYDOT will be within a couple of miles of where the County would like to pave Hazelton Road, an access point to cabin sites and popular camping areas. Paving is expected to begin in mid-August at which time a 14’ width restriction will be in place.
District 4
Paving operations underway on US 16 west of Buffalo BUFFALO – The Wyoming Department of Transportation Commission awarded a $5.2M contract to McGarvin-Moberly Construction Co., of Worland, to perform a mill and overlay on eleven miles of US 16 west of Buffalo this summer. This project begins at milepost 63 and extends west to milepost 52. In addition to the paving, contractors will be replacing fence and culverts and extending shoulders in various locations. Once the paving is complete, McGarvin-Moberly will return and perform a chip seal treatment in the spring of 2021. Contractors began setting traffic control the week of June 15 with milling operations beginning June 22. Paving is scheduled for August. Motorists traveling this route encountered flagging operations beginning at
Photo: WYDOT
WHP
WYO 412 and WYO 414. The completion date for the work is Aug. 30.
Paving operations on US 16 west of Buffalo.
District 5
Blue Sky Highway striping completes WYO 132 improvements north of Lander LANDER – Highway striping June 24 on the $14.63 million highway improvement project on WYO 132 signifies the completion of construction between Ethete and US 287. “Fencing work is continuing, but the driving surface is complete after chip sealing was completed the week of June 15,” said Project Engineer Brian Martin of Lander. “It’s been a lot of work by a lot of dedicated people, and we’re proud of the Briefs continued on page 8 July 2020
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Briefs continued from page 7 finished product.” Improvements on the Blue Sky highway improvement project include grading, draining, milling asphalt pavement, placing gravel pit run and crushed gravel, asphalt paving, chip sealing, electrical work and other work on seven miles of WYO 132 north of Lander. Pedestrians are benefiting, too, from a new pedestrian pathway between Ethete and Wyoming Indian Elementary School, and the new pedestrian highway crossing at Wyoming Indian High School.
Summer chip sealing season continues near Lovell, Cowley, Ralston
Month-long closure of south half of Major Avenue intersection
CODY – A $5.8 million slide repair project near the 8,070-foot summit of Dead Indian Pass is slated to begin this month on WYO 296/Chief Joseph Scenic Highway northwest of Cody. Condon Johnson and Associates Inc., of Kent, Washington, is the prime contractor. “All work except the chip seal and reclamation must be completed by Oct. 31,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer Todd Frost of Cody. A public meeting hosted by WYDOT took place on June 25, to provide information about the slide repair project in the parking lot of the Chief Joseph RV Park near the Clark’s Fork River. Residents of the area were invited, along with anyone else who wanted to attend. The slide repair project on 0.2 miles of WYO 296 at milepost 32.50 (about 15 miles west of WYO 120) involves installation of 119, 39-inch-diameter drilled shafts to stabilize the slide area. “Drilling will go 50 to 70 feet deep into bedrock, and the drilled shafts will be connected by a concrete cap,” Frost said. “The slide area/highway will be reconstructed and paved after installation of the drilled shafts.” A 12-foot-wide, single-lane detour was in place during construction. A 12-foot width restriction will be in effect through the project.
RIVERTON – The long-awaited reconstruction of the Riverton Main Street/ Major Avenue intersection began June 8, with a month-long closure of the south half of the intersection. The $3.29 million US 26 (Riverton West Main ADA and Major Avenue/Main Street intersection traffic signal) project includes installation of a traffic signal system and rebuild of the Major Avenue/West Main Street (US 26) intersection, The project will also include Americans with Disabilities Act improvements at every street corner and replacement of broken curb, gutter and sidewalk between the end of the concrete pavement in downtown Riverton (North 1st Street) and West Main Street’s intersection with Hill Street at the west end of the Central Wyoming College campus in Riverton. Activities on the 2.05-mile project was focused on the Main/Major intersection for about two months, prior to the scheduled beginning of the 2020-21 school year, according to Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer Robert Scheidemantel of Riverton. Scheidemantel said reconstruction of the intersection is being phased to maintain 2-way traffic on Main Street at all times, and ADA work will be allowed on one signalized intersection at a time. Phasing of the ADA improvements and replacement of broken curb, gutter and sidewalk will include six blocks on half of the roadway at a time. A reduced speed limit may be used through the work zone to slow traffic. Prime contractor on the project is S&S Builders LLC, of Gillette. S&S Builders LLC, was awarded the contract to rebuild the Major Avenue/ Main Street intersection and complete ADA improvements and repair broken curb, gutter and sidewalk on Dec. 12, 2019. Contract completion date is Nov. 30.
Photo: WYDOT
LOVELL – Wyoming Department of Transportation chip sealing crews continue their summer work season with work near Lovell, Cowley and Ralston. Drivers encountered traffic delays of up to 20 minutes, and pilot cars controlled speeds through the chip-sealing zone. WYDOT’s chip sealing crews were between Lovell and Greybull on WYO 32 June 22, mileposts 0.00 to 2.89; and WYO 33 (Lovell spur) between mileposts 2.89 and 4.89. On June 23, crews moved to the Cowley spur (WYO 35) between mileposts 0.00 and 1.08. On June 24-25 nine miles of WYO 294 (Ralston to WYO 120) were chip sealed. Beginning July 6, the chip sealing effort moves south of Wind River Canyon with 24.98 miles of chip sealing scheduled for July 6-20 on WYO 28 between Lander and South Pass. From July 21-28, chip sealing is scheduled on 5.61 miles of US 26/WYO 789 between Shoshoni and Riverton.
Slide repair project on WYO 296/Chief Joseph Scenic Highway
Photo: WYDOT
DIP Slide near the summit of Dead Indian Pass on WYO 296.
WYDOT chip sealing operations this year between Thermopolis and Worland.
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said Kaia Tharp, Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer in Thermopolis. “The 30-day test of the message boards is nearly complete, and when testing is complete, the new digital message signs will be online. Web camera images are available at wyoroad.info.” v Photo: WYDOT
Congratulations to our May recipients!
New digital message signs, web cameras in northwest Wyoming THERMOPOLIS – Testing of seven new digital message signs/web cameras are nearly complete in northwest Wyoming, and the signs are nearly online. Prime contractor on the $1.4 million project is Advanced Electric LLC, of Casper. The new digital message signs/web cameras are located at: • US 14/16/20 (milepost 48.39), about 2 miles west of Cody; • US 26/287 (milepost 8.1), about 8 miles east of Moran Junction near the Blackrock Ranger Station (not yet operational); • US 16/20 (milepost 202.87), about 2 miles south of Greybull; • US 16 (milepost 3.45), about 3.5 miles east of Worland; • US 20 (milepost 164.17), about 1 mile south of Worland; • US 20 (milepost 127.86), about 5.5 miles south of Thermopolis near Wind River Canyon; • US 20 (milepost 101.18), about 1 mile north of Shoshoni. Installation of a US 20 relay tower is also part of the communications project (milepost 128.99), about 4 miles south of Thermopolis. “Work started last August, and installation and activation of the message boards was delayed due to COVID-19,”
Photo: WYDOT
The south side of the Major Avenue/Main Street (US 26) intersection in Riverton. The south side of the intersection began a month-long closure beginning on June 8 for reconstruction and installation of a new traffic signal.
New webcam on US 14/16/20 west of Cody.
Chip sealing on WYO 789 passing lanes between Riverton, Hudson RIVERTON – Chip sealing of 1.8 miles of new WYO 789 passing lanes began June 9 between Hudson and Riverton. Chip sealing is the final work on the 7-mile, $6.8 million project, and also includes an area directly north of Hudson. Prime contractor is McGarvin-Moberly Construction Co., of Worland. “The new 1.8-mile, four-lane highway section begins about 5 miles north of Hudson and continues for 1.8 miles (mileposts 95.46 to 97.27),” said Wyoming Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Erik Smith of Lander. The project’s scope of work included a 3-inch pavement overlay, chip-seal finish, grading, draining, placing crushed gravel base, fencing, bridge repair and other work on about 7 miles of WYO 789. McGarvin-Moberly’s chip-sealing operation is expected to move to the Ethete area (WYO 132) after work is completed on WYO 789. n
WYDOT salutes the following Director’s Extra Mile Award recipients. The award is presented to individuals who have traveled the “extra mile” in service to WYDOT.
Barry Armstrong Chris Hieb Barry Schulenberg Joshua Simonson Jessica Williams For more information about the Extra Mile Award or to nominate someone, contact Katherine.Castaneda@wyo.gov.
Fishing? Camping? Get those photos in!
Outdoors photos deadline:
09/15/20 carlie.vanwinkle@wyo.gov
July 2020
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Louie Pfrangle retires from Transportation Commission He graduated from Cody High School and attended the University of Wyoming on a track scholarship, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. After graduating, he taught school in Lusk and Worland before going to work for Admiral Transport, the transport company for Pepsi Cola. Pfrangle became part owner of Admiral Transport and
Photo: WYDOT
By Aimee Inama Louie Pfrangle always worked hard for the residents of northwest Wyoming and the entire state. As a Wyoming Transportation commissioner, he worked tirelessly ensuring state construction projects, the budget and other issues pertaining to the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) had the appropriate review and oversight. He dedicated his free time to help WYDOT continue to be the premier agency within the state. Now after serving three years, Pfrangle retired from the commission in February. At the June Transportation Commission meeting, his fellow commissioners and WYDOT leadership wished him well, thanking him for a job well done. They presented him with a crystal WYDOT plaque and a framed photo of the Chief Joseph Highway, one of Pfrangle’s favorite places in the state. Pfrangle, of Worland, represented Commission District 5, which includes Big Horn, Hot Springs, Park and Washakie counties. “Thank you for your many years of service,” said WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner. “When I started with the department, you were one of the first people I visited with. I learned a lot from you and learned more about District 5 from you. It was a pleasure to work with you and we wish you the absolute best in the future.” The commissioners also thanked Pfrangle for his service, saying he will definitely be missed. “Thank you for serving the people within your commission district and the state of Wyoming,” said Commission Chairman Rick Newton. “We are grateful for everything you have done.” Besides serving on the Transportation Commission, Pfrangle is a former member of the board of directors for Admiral Transport Corporation of Worland.
Retired Transportation Commissioner Louie Pfrangle was presented a beautiful framed photo of the Chief Joseph highway, one of Pfrangle’s favorite areas in the state. District 5 Engineer Pete Hallsten presented the photo via a Google Hangout call for the month’s Commission meeting.
worked there for over 30 years before retiring in 2007. Additionally, Pfrangle is a military veteran and served six years in the Wyoming National Guard prior to working at Admiral Transport. Pfrangle is married to his wife Kerby. He also has served as past president of the Wyoming Trucking Association and on the Governor’s Safety Council. n
Buckle up! It’s THAT easy.
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Greg Venable appointed new Transportation Commissioner By Aimee Inama Gov. Mark Gordon appointed Greg Venable to the Wyoming Transportation Commission to replace retiring Commissioner Louie Pfrangle. Venable, of Worland, will represent Commission District 5, which includes Big Horn, Hot Springs, Park and Washakie counties. Pfrangle, of Worland, retired in February. “We’re pleased to have Greg on the board representing the residents in the northwestern part of the state,” said WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner. Venable “Greg brings experience in the transportation industry and he will be an asset to the commission. He will help us continue our efforts of making WYDOT a cutting-edge agency.” Transportation Commission Chairman Rick Newton agreed. “Greg’s background will certainly help us with decisions regarding transportation issues within the state,” Newton said. “We’re looking forward to working with him and him providing his perspectives on making transportation even better in the state.” Venable will serve until 2023. Typically, commissioners serve a six-year appointment but Venable will serve the rest of Pfrangle’s term. “I’m looking forward to serving on the commission and learn-
ing more about the Wyoming Department of Transportation and the needs of the public,” Venable said. “I think I’m a good fit for the commission because I’m in the transportation industry and have experience with transportation issues.” Venable said he plans to attend the upcoming State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) meetings in District 5 to learn more about the highway and bridge projects, airport improvement work, transit and Public Safety Communications Commission projects that WYDOT tentatively expects to contract for during the upcoming fiscal year. He will also work closely with the other commissioners to learn more about WYDOT and get to know more about the issues facing District 5. In addition to serving on the Transportation Commission, Venable is currently a member of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) Board of Directors and Wyoming ATA vice president, president of the Wyoming Trucking Association Board of Directors, and chairman of the Transportation Safety Coalition. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in social sciences from the University of Houston Downtown and a master’s degree in supply chain management from Ashford University. Venable currently works for Admiral Transport Corporation as the director of transportation and logistics. Before joining Admiral Transport, he served as the operations manager for Gulf States Toyota in Houston, Texas, from 1995 until 2007. Outside of work, Venable enjoys watching both of his teenage children play soccer and his daughter run cross-country. He is also an avid road cyclist. n
Training Five ways to improve this summer By Kurt Bogaard, Training Services Summer can be a great time to get away from it all and find some rest and relaxation. Summer can also be a time to improve your personal effectiveness. WYDOT University is offering five instructor-led class classes in July and August, most with a track record of creating results for people who have a desire to improve their personal and people effectiveness. July 7-9 – Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Attend The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People 3-day workshop and discover a new sense of direction, restore balance to your life, and learn to accomplish your most important longterm goals by focusing on proven principles of effectiveness. July 13-16 – WY. Supervise New Supervisors Workshop WY. Supervise is a three-and-a-half day workshop which prepares new supervisors and emerging leaders with the knowledge and organizational skills needed to successfully lead other employees at WYDOT. Participants are required to first register for the WY. Supervise (New Supervisors) Learning Plan. July 29 – SDI & Conflict In part, participants in this workshop will: Identify the moti-
vations behind their behaviors; Choose effective behavior based on desired results and the motives and values of others; Understand the motives and intentions of other people; Identify the strength behind an overdone strength in others; Aug. 4 – Motivation & Goal Setting for You and Your Employees This course will help you learn how to set goals and maintain motivation, gain the motivation to make a change and look at strategies for success. Aug. 12-13 – Franklin Covey’s 5 Choices of Extraordinary Productivity Supported by science and years of experience in time management, this solution not only produces a measurable increase in daily productivity, but also provides a renewed sense of engagement and accomplishment. Participants learn to apply a process that will dramatically increase their ability to achieve their highest priorities in the midst of unprecedented distractions. Read more about these classes by logging into the WELL or visiting the WYDOT Training Services intranet site. Each of these classes are scheduled to be instructor-led classes at WYDOT University in Cheyenne. Class sizes and activities will be established to maintain social distancing which comply with state and agency guidelines. n
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District News Headquarters James Van Kirk, Planning-Counter Shop – 30 years; Patricia Fox, Port of Entry-Cheyenne I-25 – 25 years; Christopher Romo, Maintenance Staff – 25 years; Vanessa Guerra, Patrol-Support Services Manager – 20 years; Jeffery Boyce, Driver Services-Policy and Records – 15 years; Travis Posthumus, Aeronautics-Flight Operations – 15 years; Paul Harbeson, IT-Development – 10 years; Justin Mordahl, Geology – 10 years; Sarah Rickgauer, Materials-Pavement Management Systems – 10 years; and Christopher Corriveau, Patrol-Dispatch – 5 years.
Welcome Guy Olson, Geology.
Promotions and Transfers Matthew Manzanares, Traffic-Sign Shop; and Nathaniel Sainz, Materials-Design and Roadway.
Service Awards Sandra Scott, Transportation Commission Administration – 40 years; James Garland, Traffic – 30 years;
Manalo
Romo
Sainz
Retirements Kenneth Bixler retired May 5 from Driver Services as a regional supervisor with 30 years of service to the state. Bixler began his career with the Wyoming Highway Department, WYDOT’s predecessor agency, Bixler in October 1989 as a driver license examiner. Bixler is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps.
Scott
Fox
Harbeson
Mordahl
Rickgauer
Marilee Manalo, Planning-Programming – 30 years;
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Mark Stogsdill retired May 15 from the Right of Way section with 28 years of service to the state. Stogsdill began his career with WYDOT in December 1992 as an engineer in the Bridge program. He held various engineering roles within the department including Stogsdill with the Laramie Design Squad and Project Development. The Cheyenne native earned his bachelors of science degree in civil engineering from the University of Wyoming. n
District 1
Welcome Brittney Hiller, Cheyenne Construction; Richard Jones, Medicine Bow Maintenance; and Aaron Nolan, Rawlins Maintenance.
Service Awards Kraig Crawford, Cheyenne Maintenance – 30 years. n
District 2
Promotions and Transfers Craig Jepson, Douglas Construction; and Richard Underwood, District 2 Traffic Staff.
Service Awards
Brian Sinner, Wheatland Patrol – 10 years; Daniel Francom, Casper Mechanics – 5 years; and Anna Jones, Casper Construction – 5 years. n
Sinner
July 2020
Jones
Letters Thankful for WYDOT maintenance crew On Thurs, June 4, I had a flat tire and pulled into the South Pass Rest Stop. A WYDOT truck pulled in a little later to see if I needed any help. They saw me with my jack out and just wanted to make sure everything was okay. Truck license plate was 190. Thanks for their consideration.
Gene Grubbs n
Jepson
District 3
District 4
Promotions and Transfers Welcome Andrew Clark, Patrick Draw Maintenance.
Service Awards Kerry Nelson, Evanston Mechanics – 35 years; Sharon Hunter, Driver Services-Jackson/Afton – 10 years; and Waylon Lym, Evanston Construction – 10 years.
Service Awards
Timothy Methven, Buffalo Maintenance; Randy Norman, Buffalo Maintenance; and Ryan P. Smith, Newcastle Construction.
Michael Hoover, Traffic-Electrical – 40; Laura Dalles, District 4 Administration – 20 years; and David Reid, Driver Services-Sheridan/ Buffalo – 5 years. n
Methven
R. Smith
Congratulations Peter Stinchcomb has been selected as the District Construction Engineer in District 3 effective June 8. n
Norman
R.P. Smith
Promotions and Transfers Ryan Smith, Sundance Construction.
Dalles
Reid
District 5 Nelson
Lym
Hunter
Welcome
Service Awards
Riley Palsma, Basin Construction; Ian Parson, Cody Construction; and Joshua Thoren, Thermopolis Construction.
Peter Hallsten, District 5 Administration – 30 years; Thomas Goracke, Ten Sleep Maintenance – 5 years; and Richard Smith, South Pass Maintenance – 5 years.
Retirements
Stinchcomb
Hallsten
Smith
Pamela Leach retired on May 2 from Driver Services with nearly 37 years of service to the state. She was the Lander/ Dubois/Riverton field office supervisor. She began her career with the Wyoming Highway Department in July 1983. n
Take “cone zone” conditions with you. Get the WYOMING 511 app. www.wyoroad.info
Know before you go. Visit wyoroad.info.
WYDOT’s Travel Information System is the one and ONLY source for up-to-the-minute road and travel information. July 2020
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Passings Don Brownell Don “Pat” P. Brownell, 84, of Cheyenne, passed away June 20 at Granite Rehabilitation and Wellness Center. Brownell was born March 18, 1936 in Burns, Wyoming. He retired as shop foreman in the Rigging Shop in CheyBrownell enne. A celebration of life was held on June 25 at the Schrader Reception Center.
Richard Cordes Richard “Dick” Cordes, 86, died May 22. Cordes was born March 4, 1934, in Rapid City, South Dakota, to Richard M. and Vera Hodgeman Cordes. He attended the South Dakota School of Mines and served in the United States Cordes Army in Germany during the Cold War. He and his wife, Shirley, moved to Cheyenne in 1972 with their three children. He worked for Taylor Pontiac and Buick, owned Dick’s Hobbies and Crafts, worked at Tyrrell Chevrolet, and finished his career as supply specialist with the State of Wyoming Highway Department. Cordes worked in the Cheyenne repair shop as a parts room manager, retiring in 2003. Visitation was held on May 27, at Schrader, Aragon and Jacoby Funeral Home, in Cheyenne. A private interment was held at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, South Dakota.
Peter Harrison Rev. Fr. Peter A. Harrison, 87, of Cheyenne passed away June 21 at home with his family by his side. He was born October 14, 1932 in Cheyenne to Anthony and Amalia Harrison. He married Dina Karabini on June 5, 1960 in Cheyenne. He was a veteran
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having service in the U.S. Navy. He had retired from the Wyoming Department of Transportation as an electrical engineer, and was a priest at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, and other Orthodox Churches in Wyoming, Colorado Harrison and Nebraska. A Trisagion was held June 24 with the funeral service following on June 25 at Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church. Interment was at Beth El Cemetery, with military honors.
Robert Towns Robert “Bob” Towns, 67, passed away on June 16 at home with his family by his side. Towns retired as a Construction and Field Survey Specialist from the Douglas office in November 2019 with more than
17 years of service to the state. He began his career in September 1989 as a temporary employee, later becoming full time in 1991. Towns started with WYDOT Engineering in Wheatland, later moving to Douglas. Towns attended the University of Illinois for an engineering technician trainee program prior to moving to Wyoming. Services will be announced at a later time. Donations are being collected at the Douglas office to help the family. Please reach out to Pennie Bliss regarding donations.
Don Vassar Don Vassar, former Maintenance Foreman in Gillette, passed away on June 28. No funeral services are planned at this time.
WTDEA
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Outdoors
Photo: WYDOT
The Wyoming Highway Patrol Association’s second annual Walleye Fishing Tournament took place at Greyrocks Reservoir on June 6. June 6 also happened to be Wyoming Game and Fish’s free fishing day. The cost of entry was $50 per participant. There were six places paid out and beautiful plaques given to the winners. This year, WHPA had a youth participant category and two youngsters were also lucky enough to get plaques. The plaques were generously donated by Z Factor Woodworking. John Vance assisted with checking live wells on boats that participants would be using to fish from while Jennifer Marshall John Vance congratulates his son, Tucker, on his awesome first place collected entry fees and checked off participant names. Fishing catch. Momen Elazizi and Jennifer Marshall look on. began at 4:30 a.m., while boats went into the water at 5:00 a.m. – a few stragglers that came later. We had 48 participants plus five Joe Collins, Cindy Cotton, Dawn Culpepper, Momen Elazizi, youth entries. Stephen Fotiades, Taylor Fotiades, Marlan Gallardo, Dennis First place went to Cat Porter with a catch of 4 pounds, 6.25 Gerke, Sergio Gonzalez, Nick Haller, John Henlon, Vickie Hintze, ounces winning her $800. Second place went to Rod Kahler, 4 Cory Honstein, Gary Kahler, Rylan Keefer, Jeff Leaf, Carl Moody, pounds, winning him $590. Jeff Selgren came in third with a Zac Olivarez, Jeremy Porter, Anthony Ramirez, Ben Rayle, Joe catch of 3 pounds, 10.375 ounces scoring $340 in cold hard cash. Schaffer, Evy Thompson, Grover Thompson, Troy Thompson, Dennis Nepper was fourth with a catch of 3 pounds, 6.75 ounces Ty Townsend, Jerry Vance, John Vance, Dave Whetstone, Emily winning him $240; fifth went to Bill Porter, 3 pounds, 5.75 Whetstone and John Worthington. ounces winning him $140; and sixth to Doug The WHPA Walleye Tournament is a Kinsley, 3 pounds, 1 ounce winning him $90. limited entry tournament with only 49 slots In the youth division: available each year, so keep an eye out for the A huge thank you to you, First place went to Tucker Vance with a announcement of next year’s event and get Jennifer (Marshall) and all catch of 4 pounds, 10.875 ounces winning signed up quickly. of the others who put a lot him $125 and his fish was also the biggest The Wyoming Highway Patrol Associof work into this and made catch of the tournament. Second place went ation would like to thank all of the particiit such a great success once to Colby Thompson with a walleye of 3 pants, donors and everyone that volunteered pounds winning him $75; third place went to again … I hope everyone had their time to make sure this competition was Noah Elazizi catching a fish of 2 pounds, 2.75 a success. A special thank you goes out to a good time…You guys rock! ounces; fourth place to Connor Moody with a Momen Elazizi for coordinating this event, catch of 2 pounds, .25 ounces; and fifth place Mike Calaway for the eye-catching sign, and to Santiago Ramirez with a fish of 1 pound, Carl Moody for the water bottles, tee shirts, planner, penlights, 15 ounces. cookie tins and hats that were donated as participant prizes. Out of 48 participants, 37 of them registered a fish for weighAlso, thank you to Z Factor Woodworking for creating and in. All five of our youth participants had a fish for weigh-in. donating the plaques for this event. You can check out Z Factor The derby participants were: Darren Allbright, Lorraine Woodworking on Facebook. n Allbright, Mark Axness, Justin Beach, John Beasley, Tel Birdsley, Mike Calaway, Darryl Cameron, Stephen Cameron, Don Caswell,
Photo: WHP
Wyoming Highway Patrol Association 2nd Annual Walleye Tournament
The WHPA second annual Walleye Tournament had a great turnout in June 2020.
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Break Time Take five and find the five differences between the two photos.
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Name Current address City, State, Zip Previous address City, State, Zip
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Wyoming Department of Transportation 5300 Bishop Blvd. Cheyenne, Wyoming 82009-3340
Pre-sorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Cheyenne, WY 82009 Permit No. 24
Address Service Requested
The 2020 Conservation License Plate challenge Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon has challenged Wyoming drivers to put 2,020 Conservation License Plates on the road by the end of 2020. Meeting this challenge will directly help fund wildlife crossings. Visit: www.dot.state.wy.us/wildlife_plate for an application.