Interchange – March 2021 by WYDOT

Interchange March 2021

Vol. 49, Issue 3

Multiple snowplows hit over a five-day period WYDOT reported 10 snowplow strikes while trucks were out maintaining roads

Plows struck from behind by other vehicles By Aimee Inama The Wyoming Department of Transportation reported 10 snowplow strikes over a five-day span as plows were out maintaining the roads due to wintry conditions. The strikes, which occurred from Feb. 11 through Feb. 16, bring the total number to 17 for the winter season, which runs from October through May. Some of the recent weekend snowplow strikes occurred near Elk Mountain and

Rawlins on Interstate 80 in southeast Wyoming, Interstate 25 near Cheyenne in southeast Wyoming, I-25 near Wheatland, Chugwater and Douglas in east-central Wyoming, on WYO 120 south of Cody and on WYO 28 near Farson. Most of the plows were struck from behind by other vehicles, resulting in minor damages and injuries; however, one incident involved a tractor trailer hitting the rear of the plow which totaled both vehicles and injured a WYDOT plow

driver. Most of the public’s vehicles had to be towed from the highway. “We want to remind the public to be careful when driving around our plows during winter weather,” said WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner. “Our drivers are out there maintaining the roads by clearing the snow and putting down materials to help keep traffic moving. We want all drivers to pay attention and be careful so everyone gets home safely.” The number of strikes has fluctuated

Contents Features 1 Multiple snowplows hit over five-day period Plows struck from behind by other vehicles

8 WHP Class 99 New troopers graduate from WHP Academy

Also in this issue District briefs.................................................................................................... 3 By the Numbers.............................................................................................. 7 Aeronautics..................................................................................................... 11 Employee Safety...........................................................................................12 Game & Fish...................................................................................................13 TechNotes.......................................................................................................14 Training............................................................................................................15 Wellness..........................................................................................................15 Tourism............................................................................................................16 District news..................................................................................................17 Letters..............................................................................................................20 Passings...........................................................................................................21 WTDEA.............................................................................................................21

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Vol. 49, Issue 3

Interchange is published for employees of the Wyoming Department of Transportation by its Public Affairs Office and a number of field correspondents. Interchange invites submissions from all employees. Please send them to either your district correspondents or to: Carlie Van Winkle, Interchange editor 5300 Bishop Blvd., Cheyenne, Wyoming, 82009-3340 or send an email to carlie.vanwinkle@ wyo.gov.

Staff WYDOT Director: K. Luke Reiner

Public Affairs Manager: Doug McGee

Editor:

Carlie Van Winkle

Contributors:

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.

Once upon a windy day.............................................................................22 Rides.................................................................................................................24 Break Time......................................................................................................27 Kindly recycle this publication after reading.

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March 2021

A WYDOT PUBLICATION

Before heading out, WYDOT officials are asking motorists to visit the department’s 511 travel information website at wyoroad. info, have an emergency kit, check their tires, plan for extra time to reach their destinations and let someone know where they’re heading. Motorists can also visit WYDOT’s 511 website at https://wyoroad.info/511/WY511Mobile.html and install the 511 app for their smartphones. n

Photo: WYDOT

Continued from front page over the past few years. There were 23 crashes for 2019-2020 winter season, eight crashes for 2018-2019, eight for 2017-2018, three for 2016-2017, seven for 2015-2016 and 13 for 2014-2015. To avoid any collisions, WYDOT officials urge motorists to pay attention, put down the distractions and drive cautiously. Motorists should stay a safe distance behind a plow until it’s safe to pass. WYDOT’s snowplows typically travel slower at speeds of 25 to 45 mph, depending on conditions. Motorists should never drive into an area of the road where they can’t see what’s in front of them. “If a motorist sees a cloud of snow ahead of them when they are driving, there’s a good chance it is a snowplow,” Reiner said. “Do not drive into that cloud. Motorists should stay back and wait to pass. If a motorists sees the plow and they need to pass, they should do so only if they absolutely need to.” However, motorists should never pass a snowplow on the right side of a two-lane road. In that situation, a snowplow could be using its wing plow, a plow that sticks out from the side of a truck, and a motorist may end up colliding with that part of the plow. To stay safe, motorists should stay far behind snowplows so they can drive on roads that WYDOT crews have maintained and also so the plow operator can see them in their rear-facing mirrors. “If you can’t see to safely pass, a plow driver probably can’t see you either,” Reiner said. “We are urging the public to use caution and have patience. The snowplow will pull over to let you pass when they are able to and when it is safe for both the snowplow driver and the motorist.”

WYDOT plows create snow clouds and unsuspecting vehicles strike the plows when making unsafe passing decisions or while driving distracted.

District Briefs Headquarters

Commission awards $15.3 million in contracts in February CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation will make minor repairs to eight bridges in Uinta and Sweetwater counties. The Wyoming Transportation Commission awarded a $4.6 million contract to Coldwater Group Inc., of Pleasant View, Utah, for the work on the bridges. The commission awarded that and eight other projects totaling $15.3 million at its recent meeting. For the bridge work, crews will perform minor work, which includes pavement overlays and concrete repairs. Crews will also have traffic control in

place. The contract completion date is July 31, 2022. Along with the bridge work in Uinta and Sweetwater counties, the other contracts the commission awarded including pavement resurfacing, chip sealing and other bridge work. The commission awarded Croell Inc., of Sundance, a $3.1 million bridge rehabilitation and road repair contract on US 16 beginning at milepost 26.76 between Worland and Buffalo in Washakie County. Crews will perform minor repairs to the bridge, smooth out a section of the road that was damaged due to frost and pave about 7 miles of road. The contract completion date is June 30, 2022. H-K Contractors Inc., of Idaho Falls, Idaho, was the low bidder on a $1.7 million chip seal contract. The work will take place at various locations in Lincoln and Sublette counties and within the

city of Kemmerer, which is paying for its portion. The contract completion date is Aug. 31, 2021. Reiman Corp., of Cheyenne, won a $1.7 million bridge replacement contract for a bridge on county road CN1-106, which is built over the BNSF railroad north of the community of Powder River. The community received federal funds for the new bridge. The bridge needs to be replaced because a WYDOT inspection showed the load rating has decreased due to age and wear and tear. Traffic will continue to drive on the old bridge while the new one is being built. The new bridge will be built next to the old one. The contract completion date is June 30, 2022. The commission awarded Modern Electric Co., of Casper, a $1.1 million contract for a sign replacement and intersection project at various locations in Briefs continued on page 4 March 2021

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Briefs continued from page 3 Cheyenne. Crews will replace signs on Lincolnway and Evans Avenue, Central and 8th Avenues and Warren and 8th Avenues. Crews will also make Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades to three intersections and perform slab replacement at several locations. The contract completion date is Oct. 31, 2021. Also awarded by the commission were contracts for: • $1.1 million to Reiman Corp. for a bridge rehabilitation contract on US 30-34 and WYO 487 by Medicine Bow in Albany and Carbon counties by Oct. 31, 2021; • $682,5190 to Riverside Contracting Inc., of Missoula, Montana, for a concrete slab replacement contract in Lovell and Powell in Big Horn and Park counties by Oct. 31, 2021; • $533,990 to Harvey Contractors Inc., of Centennial, Colorado, for an epoxy pavement line contract at several locations in Albany, Campbell, Carbon, Laramie and Sheridan counties by Sept. 30, 2021; and • $488,960 to Streamline Markings Inc., of Billings, Montana, for an epoxy pavement line contract at several locations in Sweetwater and Uinta counties by Sept. 30, 2021.

Governor signs temporary order for propane deliveries CHEYENNE – Gov. Mark Gordon signed an executive order recently that temporarily puts in place emergency rules for the Wyoming Department of Transportation that allows drivers to make extra propane deliveries to homes and businesses. The order became effective Feb. 17 and continues through March 18. Demand for propane, which many people use to heat their homes, has increased because of recent frigid temperatures throughout the state. The emergency rule suspends regulations on driving hours to allow drivers to meet the increased demand but still indicates drivers cannot be on the road when they are fatigued. The propane delivery companies are specifically asked to take extra precautions to ensure both

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the public and drivers’ safety. This order is specific to drivers bringing propane to Wyoming or doing in-state deliveries. The order also puts Wyoming in line with other surrounding states, which have implemented similar executive orders.

District 1

Cheyenne resident in custody following pursuit CHEYENNE – Around 12:04 a.m. March 1, WHP troopers were notified of a vehicle all over the roadway. The complainant also stated the driver of the complaint vehicle was turning his headlights on and off. As units were responding, a second call reported the car had possibly crashed. Around 12:18 a.m., a trooper tried to stop the vehicle, a 2014 Subaru, south of the Port of Entry on I-25 in Laramie County, but the driver failed to stop. The driver initially fled south before crossing the interstate and driving northbound. The driver displayed reckless behavior by driving with no headlights on, vacating the driver’s seat by crawling into the backseat while the vehicle was still moving and entering opposite travel lanes. The driver continued to elude law enforcement officers even after several attempts to perform Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuvers and use spike strips. The pursuit changed travel direction multiple times on the interstate, and the driver continued to exhibit erratic behavior causing imminent danger to the public. Around milepost 15 on I-25, pursuing law enforcement units were able to use their patrol vehicles to pin the car to the side of the road as the driver started driving southbound in the northbound lanes toward stopped traffic. The driver failed to comply with orders from the troopers. Law enforcement officers were able to use less than lethal force to take the driver into custody. Once the driver was detained, it was learned the driver had self-inflicted cuts on his arm. Troopers administered first aid to control the bleeding on the driver’s arms, and he was transported to the Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. The driver of the vehicle has been identified as a 33-year-old Cheyenne resident, Nickolas David Jones. Jones was charged with fleeing to

elude, interference with a peace officer, careless driving, driving without lighted lamps, driving a vehicle with metal rims in contact with the roadway, driving without a seat belt, and driving the wrong way on the interstate. The Cheyenne Police Department and Laramie County Sheriff ’s Department assisted with the incident.

Bridge work on Curtis Street underway LARAMIE – Weather permitting, crews with S&S Builders and the Wyoming Department of Transportation will start March 1 on some bridge rehabilitation work on the Curtis Street structure that crosses the Union Pacific Railroad tracks in Laramie. Work is primarily focused on the bearings under the bridge and will necessitate some lane closures and speed limit reductions. Traffic will remain open in both directions, but motorists should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak travel hours like morning and evening commutes.

Pursuit ends east of Rawlins RAWLINS – On Feb. 19, a Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation between Elk Mountain and Walcott east of Rawlins on I-80. The driver of the vehicle stopped but failed to identify himself and fled from the trooper. As the car was being pursued, the fleeing driver began firing rounds at the pursuing law enforcement. The trooper returned fire but was unable to apprehend the suspect immediately. The pursuit continued west on I-80 before the vehicle exited the road west of Walcott Junction. The car crashed through a right-of-way fence before the driver abandoned his vehicle in an open field and fled on foot. The driver was apprehended a short time later without further incident. Carbon County deputies assisted the Wyoming Highway Patrol in the event. No one was injured during this incident. The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation was requested to assist with the investigation. The investigation is ongoing and further details will be disseminated as they become available.

Colorado resident in custody following pursuit CHEYENNE – Around noon on Jan. 27, Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers were notified of a 2007 Cadillac Escalade driving erratically in the area of Campstool Road and I-80. The plate given matched a reported stolen vehicle out of Greeley, Colorado. Around 1 p.m., a trooper on Vandehei Avenue and I-25 spotted the vehicle. As the troopers attempted a stop the stolen Cadillac, the driver failed to stop and tossed a handgun out the window. The vehicle entered I-25 from Vandehei Avenue and drove south. On I-25, troopers were able to deploy spike strips to deflate the Cadillac’s tires. After striking the spike strips, the driver exited onto Missile Drive and drove east toward Cheyenne. In the interest of public safety, the trooper attempted a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver to stop the vehicle but was unsuccessful. The Cheyenne Police Department took over as the primary pursuing agency while the pursuit continued on city streets. WHP resumed primary pursuing agency as the stolen vehicle drove south on US 85. The suspect driver drove into oncoming lanes of traffic as he continued southbound on US 85. Around milepost 1.5 on US 85, troopers attempt-

of the federal Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act. Although WYDOT will receive $14 million, the total cost of the project is just under $30 million.

Photo: WYDOT

CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation hosted an informational virtual public meeting about a construction project on WYO 223 (Terry Ranch Road) scheduled for summer of 2023. The meeting gave an overview of the project and its traffic impacts, including bridge work that will necessitate a temporary closure of the highway to through traffic. After a short presentation, WYDOT engineers were available for a question and answer session about the project. Those interested in attending were urged to tune in via Zoom at 5:30 p.m. March 4. A recording of the meeting was made available for those who couldn’t attend.

ed a second TVI to end the pursuit. The vehicle exited the left side of the roadway and came to a stop. The driver of the vehicle was taken into custody without further incident. He was identified as a 42-year-old Greeley, Colorado resident Farrel Williams. Williams was charged with possession of the stolen vehicle, felony warrant for a parole violation out of Colorado, fleeing to elude, reckless in endangering, and other traffic-related offenses. The Cheyenne Police Department and Laramie County Sheriff ’s Department assisted with this incident.

Satellite images with graphic overlay showing the updated Gookin Bridge update.

Photo: WYDOT

WYDOT hosted virtual public meeting about WYO 223

WHP brought a city-wide pursuit to an end south of Cheyenne on US 85.

District 3

Work begins this year on new interchange ROCK SPRINGS – WYDOT and contract crews from Reiman & High Country Construction will begin preliminary work this spring on the new Interchange (Gookin) bridge, interchange and connector to Blairtown Road in Rock Springs near the Water Reclamation Facility. Crews are mobilizing equipment in the area and could begin work as early as next month. The Interchange overpass bridge connects the Sunset Drive service road and Foothill Blvd. service road over Interstate 80. The bridge has been closed to traffic since April of 2014 when it was struck by a truck carrying an excavator on the interstate. WYDOT received a $14 million federal Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grant to construct a new interchange and reconstruct and expand Interchange Road from Foothill Blvd. south to Blairtown Road. The $14 million grant WYDOT received is part of the $1.5 billion INFRA grant program, which is part

WYDOT is partnering with the city of Rock Springs, as well as Sweetwater County to complete the project. WYDOT and the city of Rock Springs hope the new project will improve traffic flow and provide a direct connection from Interstate 80 to an intermodal industrial park that provides energy-related services. The project includes replacing an existing bridge over the interstate to provide a higher vertical clearance, constructing eastbound and westbound ramps with continuous acceleration/deceleration lanes to Dewar Drive and building a new overpass structure over the Union Pacific Railroad for access to the industrial park. With I-80 being a major freight network, the new interchange will help improve movement of freight within the state and nationally, helping to diversify the economy in this part of the state. It can also help entice future growth in the industrial area by offering direct access to the interstate. The completion date for this project is set for June 30, 2023. Rock Springs Mayor Timothy A. Kaumo said that this project will not only improve the ability to develop lands near this interchange but will improve existing safety concerns of large truck traffic traveling through residential neighborhoods by connecting Blairtown Road to the I-80 corridor. “We appreciate our partnership with WYDOT, Sweetwater County and the INFRA program, this bridge has been Briefs continued on page 6 March 2021

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Briefs continued from page 5 closed for many years and unavailable to our residents and visitors. Replacing this infrastructure is critical to our community and the addition of access on and off of I-80 will help our community to grow and become more successful,” Mayor Kaumo added.

accommodate the Sheridan WYO Rodeo activities and resume July 17. Contractors would likely begin work in the early spring of 2023.

WYDOT hosted virtual public meeting regarding 2023 Main Street project SHERIDAN – The Wyoming Department of Transportation and the city of Sheridan will be hosting a virtual public involvement meeting on Thursday, Feb. 11 regarding the upcoming 2023 rehabilitation and utility upgrade of Sheridan’s downtown Main Street. The intent of the project is to resurface 0.56 miles of Main Street from Dow Street to the Coffeen Avenue and Burkitt Street intersection. The proposed project will include a new blended base, new concrete surfacing, selected sidewalk and curb & gutter replacement, ADA upgrades to correct existing deficiencies along with upgrades to traffic signal poles and associated infrastructure (signal cabinets, control boxes, pull boxes, etc.). The city of Sheridan will replace the existing city water transmission, existing sanitary sewer main and perform any needed repairs to the existing storm sewer system, and will perform placement and or upgrade of various enhancements. Resident engineer Mick Brinkerhoff and public involvement specialist Laura Dalles have been visiting with downtown merchants over the past few months regarding the proposed options for closing Main Street. They presented three options to closing Main Street. Option I would be to close the entire length of Main Street for the entire project time. Option II would be to close Main Street in two phases with Smith Alley being midpoint. Option III would be to close Main Street in three phases, Dow to Smith Alley, Smith Alley to Works Street and Works Street to Burkitt Street as the third phase. With Options II and III, construction would shut down from July 9 to 16 to

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Lander Main Street public meeting held March 3 Photo courtesy of the city of Sheridan

District 4

feldt of Thermopolis. The rest area reopened Feb. 25 following repairs.

Contractors working on city utilities, preparing for the paving of Main Street in 1970.

District 5

Rumble strip test project between Lovell, Cowley LOVELL – Big Horn County contractor S&L Industrial of Cowley is scheduled to test its new rumble strip machine March 2-3 on a section of US 310 between Lovell and Cowley. The highway section involves the recently reconstructed US 310 Sage Creek Section north of Lovell. “S&L will be providing this free service to help determine how they will bid on future highway projects,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Mike Miller of Basin. “The work is scheduled on March 2 and 3, and no delays are expected as S&L has a mobile traffic-control operation to follow the rumble strip operation.” Digital messages placed early next week on each end of the work area will advise drivers of the mobile construction operation, Miller said.

Water leak/waterline break closes Waltman Rest Area THERMOPOLIS – The Waltman Rest Area between Shoshoni and Casper was closed following the discovery of a water leak/waterline break outside the facility. “The rest area remained closed until this issue was resolved,” said WYDOT area maintenance supervisor Clint Huck-

LANDER – Citizens and business owners were invited to a public meeting March 3 regarding this year’s $6.89 million Lander concrete rehabilitation project and US 287 pavement overlay. The $6.89 million US 287 project is 16.2 miles in length, between the Main Street/Buena Vista intersection in Lander and Ft. Washakie. The project includes concrete grinding, concrete joint sealing, asphalt paving, chip sealing, and curb, gutter and ADA ramp repairs. Project work is expected to begin about March 1, according to WYDOT Resident Engineer Erik Smith of Lander, “or as soon as the weather allows for prime contractor Mountain Construction of Lovell. The contractor’s preliminary work schedule shows work mostly complete by the middle of July.” Weekly public work progress meetings are scheduled to begin March 11 at the southwest corner of the Main Street/2nd Street intersection in downtown Lander. Citizens and businesses are invited to attend the weekly work progress meetings. “By contract, project work is required to be phased so that 2-way traffic is maintained on half of the roadway at all times,” Smith said. “There will be some intersection disruptions and lane closures during this quick-moving project. A large percentage of the project includes pavement work (milling and a pavement overlay) between mileposts 10 (near US 287’s intersection with WYO 132) and 24.17 (Ft. Washakie).”

Riverton Main Street concrete repair public meeting was held Feb. 23 RIVERTON – Citizens and business owners were invited to a public meeting on Feb. 23 regarding this spring’s $1.4 million concrete rehabilitation project in downtown Riverton. The public meeting was held at

Riverton City Hall. In-person attendees were socially distanced and masks were required. The public meeting can also be viewed by searching for the “city of Riverton Wyoming Official YouTube Channel” on the Internet at YouTube.com. The concrete rehabilitation project on Riverton’s Main Street is 0.50 miles in length between North Federal Boulevard and North 1st Street. The project includes concrete milling, asphalt paving, and curb, gutter and ADA ramp repairs. Prime contractor on the project is 71 Construction of Riverton. By contract, all curb, gutter and ADA improvements must be completed by the contractor prior to street milling and paving operations. The project is scheduled to begin in early April. By contract, project work is required to be phased so that 2-way traffic is maintained on half of the roadway at all times. Intersection closures are planned on half of Main Street during this quick moving project. Project completion date is Oct. 31.

Sheridan Avenue/17th Street rehabilitation project resumed CODY – The $4.93 million concrete rehabilitation project on Sheridan Avenue/17th Street restarted after Presidents Day weekend in Cody. Work operations by prime contractor S&S Builders, LLC, will consist of concrete slab replacement, curb and gutter, double gutter, sidewalk and Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades between Stampede Avenue and Draw Street on the west half of 17th Street. “The west side of the intersection of Central Avenue and 17th Street will be closed on Feb. 16,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation resident engineer Todd Frost of Cody. “The west side of the Stampede Avenue/17th Street intersection will be narrowed to one driving lane in each direction.” Frost said traffic will be carried in one lane each direction on the east side of 17th Street while work is being completed on the other half of 17th Street.

Remaining work on this two-year project includes concrete replacement from Alger Avenue to Stampede Avenue, concrete grinding and texturing from East Sheridan Avenue to Stampede Avenue, sealing of concrete joints from 14th Street to Stampede Avenue, and other minor cleanup. “The street grinding and texturing and sealing of concrete joints is not scheduled until later in March or April,” Frost said. Other remaining in 2021 includes: – Placing sod at Good to Go, Holiday Inn and Antler Inn this spring; – Paving at Comfort Inn, parking areas, and side streets as needed this spring; and – Landscaping and sprinkler repairs will be completed at Walgreens, Wendy’s, Holiday Inn, Pinnacle Bank and other areas as needed when the ground thaws this spring. A representative of S&S Builders, LLC, will be meeting with businesses in the affected areas to discuss 2021 improvements and the proposed schedules prior to starting work. By contract, the contractor must maintain access into all businesses during work improvements. The project begins at US 14/16/20 milepost 51.78 at the intersection of 10th Street and Sheridan Avenue in front of the Park County Courthouse, and it proceeds 1.20 miles on US 14/16/20 to the 17th Street/Stampede Avenue intersection on Greybull Hill. Phase 3 of the project, by contract, proceeds from 14th Street up Greybull Hill to the end of the project and must be completed through concrete grinding and texturing prior to June 15, 2021. By contract, the project will be shut down from June 16, 2021, through Aug. 23, 2021. Phase 4 of the project, by contract, requires all remaining work to be completed by Sept. 30, 2021. Contract completion date is Sept. 30, 2021. n

Total number of employees: As of Jan. 27, 2021

1,920

One month ago

1,931

One year ago

1,946

WHP Total number of highway fatalities: As of Feb. 16, 2021

One year ago

March 2021

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Photo: WHP

Wyoming Highway Patrol commissions 99th class

Sixteen commissioned in February By WHP Safety and Training WHP commissioned 16 cadets to the rank of troopers upon completion of their intensive training academy courses. During their academy, the new troopers were instructed in a variety of classes, including firearms, commercial carrier, physical training, RADAR/LIDAR, emergency vehicle operation, custody and control, crash investigation and other training. The members of Class 97 who were new to law enforcement participated in 1,200 hours of academy training. Being a state trooper for the Wyoming Highway Patrol can be a challenging, yet rewarding career as it takes a special person to become a Wyoming State trooper. All troopers take an oath to protect and serve all citizens of this great state with courtesy, professionalism and integrity as Wyoming’s troopers represent the agency brand of “Guardians of the Cowboy State.” The new troopers participated in their swearing-in ceremony in front of family and friends at the Wyoming Highway Patrol Academy facility on the Laramie County Community College campus. The ceremony marked the 99th graduating class of the Wyoming Highway Patrol Academy. The following troopers are now working with a field training officer in areas throughout the state.

Trooper Stuart Coxhead, Saratoga

Coxhead moved to Wyoming from Bozeman, Montana. He will be stationed in Saratoga, Wyoming. He enjoys hunting, fishing and backcountry skiing. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a minor in Sociology from Montana State University in 2019. He is excited to be a part of his new community. Coxhead

Trooper Nicholas Curley, Sundance Curley grew up in South Carolina but moved to Wyoming in 2013. He enjoys rock climbing, hunting and backpacking with his wife and two children. Curley is stationed in Sundance, Wyoming, and he and his family look forward to exploring Devils Tower and becoming active members of the community. Curley

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Trooper William Earnest, Lusk

Trooper Logan Kelley, Cheyenne

Earnest came to us from Florida Highway Patrol, where he served as a Florida State Trooper. Trooper Earnest joined the Wyoming Highway Patrol in August of 2020, and he is assigned to patrol Niobrara and Converse Counties. Trooper Earnest is a U.S. Army Veteran and a certified Wyoming Highway Patrol CPS Technician. Earnest

Trooper Clinton Farrell, Gillette

Kelley is assigned to the Cheyenne area division. He is a Wyoming native and lived in Rawlins before joining the Wyoming Highway Patrol. Trooper Kelley enjoys hunting, fishing, traveling and spending time with his family. Trooper Kelley is looking forward to interacting with the community and the rest of the Cowboy State Guardians. This agency offers an abundance of opportunities, all of which he is excited to earn.

Kelley

Trooper Anthony Landers, Worland

Farrell is being stationed in Gillette, Wyoming, where he has lived with his wife and kids for the last six years. He grew up in northern Illinois before moving to Wyoming with his wife to work for the railroad. He enjoys shooting, hiking and spending time with his kids. Farrell

Landers moved here from Nebraska with his family. He is happily married to his wife, and they have two children. He enjoys spending time with his family, hunting and fishing. Trooper Landers is stationed in Worland, Wyoming, and he looks forward to becoming a contributing member of his community. Landers

Trooper Jacob Frantz, Arlington

Trooper Anthony J. Martucci, Wheatland

Frantz is being stationed in Arlington, Wyoming. He is from Oklahoma, where he had a background in Fire, EMS, and oilfield rescue and served in the Army as a reservist. He enjoys spending time outside with his dogs and looks forward to exploring the great outdoor opportunities that Wyoming has to offer.

Martucci is originally from Northern California and has lived in Cheyenne for the last two years. Before starting with the Wyoming Highway Patrol, he was a firefighter/EMT in Cheyenne and a U.S. Army reservist. He will be stationed in Wheatland. Frantz Martucci

Trooper Kyle A. Hawn, Gillette

Trooper Caleb Pushcar, Casper

Hawn is from Wichita, KS. He is excited to a part of this great agency and to start his career in Gillette. Kyle and his wife are expecting their first child in July. In the little free time he’ll have left, Kyle enjoys playing and watching sports, video games and hiking. Hawn

Pushcar is from Cheyenne, Wyoming. He has spent 24 years of his life in Cheyenne. He graduated from Cheyenne East High School and played soccer. Trooper Pushcar enjoys the outdoors, fishing, mountain biking, skiing and playing soccer. Trooper Pushcar will be stationed in Casper, Wyoming as a proud member of the Cowboy State Guardians. Pushcar

Trooper James Keeley, Thermopolis

Trooper Adam Reiter, Casper

Keeley is from Pine Bush, New York. He will be stationed in Thermopolis and looks forward to serving his community. He enjoys hunting, fishing and the outdoors.

Keeley

Reiter is from Montana, where he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served two years in Iraq as an Aviation Ordnance man. He spent five years enlisted until he returned to Billings, Montana, to acquire his bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Sociology. After finishing college, he moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming, to become a Veteran Affairs Police Officer before becoming a Wyoming State Trooper. As Reiter a Trooper for Wyoming Highway Patrol, he will be stationed in Casper, Wyoming. While in Casper, Trooper March 2021

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Reiter takes pride in taking care of his family and spending their time together hunting and fishing west of Casper. Outside of spending time with family, Trooper Reiter enjoys restoring his 78 Ford Bronco and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Trooper Charles B. Richwine, Douglas Richwine joined the Wyoming Highway Patrol in August of 2020. He is from Verbank, New York, and he is stationed in Douglas, Wyoming. He enjoys hunting, fishing and other recreational outdoor activities. He is excited to get out on the road and looks forward to a long career with the Wyoming Highway Patrol.

The Academic Award is based on the highest overall test percentage of written tests with the fewest retests. The Academic Award for Class 99 went to Recruit Ryan Wille, with an overall average test score of 99.47%. In a very close second place was Recruit Austin Willette with 99.37%. The academic class average score for Class 99 was 95.55%. Overall Fitness Award is based on the WYPAT fastest time on the final WYPAT test. Applicants at WHP testing have 6 minutes, 17 seconds to pass the WYPAT test to be hired successfully. The Overall Fitness Award for Class 99 went to Recruit Tyler Schilling, with a final WYPAT time of 3 minutes, 5 seconds. The overall Class 99 WYPAT average time was 4 minutes, 6 seconds.

Richwine

Trooper Tyler Schilling, Pinedale Schilling is from Brownsville, Oregon, and will be stationed in Pinedale. He enjoys hunting, fishing and riding motorcycles. Schilling wrestled for California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) and competed in the PAC-12 Conference during his college tenure. He graduated from Cal Poly in June 2020 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology-Criminal Justice. Schilling is excited to begin his career in Pinedale.

Class 99 awards

The Most Improved Fitness Award is based on the largest decrease of time from the initial to the final WYPAT fitness test. The Most Improved Fitness Award for Class 99 went to Recruit William Earnest with an improved time of 36 seconds from his initial WYPAT time. The Firearms Proficiency Award is based on the highest overall percentage with the least amount of attempts to qualify. The Firearms Proficiency Award for Class 99 went to Recruit Jacob Frantz with an overall firearms proficiency score of 97.5%.

Schilling

Trooper Ryan Wille, Rock Springs

The “Esperit de Corps” Award is based on the Cadet who consistently demonstrated a spirit of comradeship, enthusiasm and devotion to a cause higher than himself throughout the Wyoming State Trooper Academy. The award goes to Recruit Tyler Schilling. The cadets vote on the Colonel’s Leadership Award for the Cadet who demonstrated the highest levels of the agency’s eight core values of integrity, courage, discipline, loyalty, diligence, humility, optimism and conviction throughout the Academy. The Class 99, Colonel’s Leadership Award, goes to Recruit Logan Kelley.

Wille grew up in Baggs, Wyoming, and graduated from Little Snake River Valley School. Trooper Wille moved to Idaho for college, where he married his wife Jesse, and they have an 18-month-old girl named Parker. Trooper Wille will be stationed in Rock Springs and is excited to go to work. WIlle

Trooper Austin Willette, Jackson Willette lives in Star Valley, Wyoming. He is a submarine veteran from Cathlamet, Washington. He will be stationed in Jackson. He enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.

Photo: WHP

Willette

Awards for the top achievers in Class 99.

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March 2021

Aeronautics WYDOT unveils 2020 Aviation Economic Impact Study

By Aimee Inama WYDOT officials held a news conference on Feb. 10 to unveil the results of the 2020 Aviation Economic Impact Study. Gov. Mark Gordon, WYDOT Director K. Luke Reiner and WYDOT Aeronautics Chairman Bill DeVore provided comments concerning the study. There was also a question and answer session featuring Diane Shober, director of the Wyoming Office of Tourism; Josh Dorrell, chief executive officer of the Wyoming Business Council; Mike Wandler, president of L&H Industrial; and Devon Brubaker, director of the Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport. Jim Elwood, director of the Jackson Hole Airport, served as the emcee. The study provided the annual impact of the state’s 34 public airports with paved runways. The study reflected pre-COVID conditions for all study airports. Each airport, its aviation business tenants, visitors, WYDOT and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) served as the primary data sources for determining both statewide and airport specific economic impacts reported. The total statewide impact shows that aviation has continued to benefit Wyoming’s economy. The last time the study was conducted was in 2013 and the 2020 study shows increases in employment, payroll, annual economic activity and state and local tax revenues. For employment, the impact in 2013 was 12,263 jobs and in 2020 it increased to 21,974 jobs. When looking at the payroll category, the impact was $526.5 million in 2013 and increased to $942 million in 2020. Annual economic activity was $1.4 billion in 2013 and increased to $2 billion in 2020. And, for state and local tax revenues, 2013’s study showed $55 million and the 2020 study showed and increase to $87.7 million. The officials speaking at the news conference indicated that Wyoming’s airports definitely help the state and local economies while providing a valuable service to the citizens of Wyoming. “Every time an aircraft lands and a family gets off to ski or to boat or to go to a rodeo or to participate in any of the other multitude of activities the state offers, it’s beneficial to our economy,” Reiner said. “Every time a businessman or businesswoman gets off an aircraft and goes to make a deal, it benefits our economy.”

Additionally, when critical medical supplies are sent to Wyoming by aircraft, the state’s citizens benefit. “When an aircraft lands with critical supplies like the COVID vaccine, it makes our lives better here in our state,” Reiner said. DeVore agreed and explained how the nine commercial airports and 25 general aviation airports serve different purposes but they share the same goal of improving the state’s economy. For example, the commercial service airports, such as the ones in Jackson and Casper, help transport tourists, in-state travelers and business travelers to those communities. Those types of airports create tourism opportunities for visitors and provide business travelers the opportunity to conduct business. The general aviation airports also serve a vital role, DeVore said. Those smaller airports provide a vital medical role by helping to transport patients, supplies and other personnel to needed locations. Additionally, those airports also serve as air freight locations where delivery companies can route their goods to so the people in those local communities can get needed items. To learn more about the 2020 Aviation Economic Impact Study, visit http://www.dot.state.wy.us/home/aeronautics/2020-aviation-economic-impact-study.html. n

March 2021

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Employee Safety

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March 2021

A Google Earth image showing plow strikes across the state. Figure 18 - Typical Speed Reduction on Interstate or Divided Multilane Legend

SPEED LIMIT

Direction of Travel Sign Work Space

Notes: 1. Signing for resuming non-work zone speed shall match the posted speed limit.

FINES HIGHER

SPEED LIMIT

750’

FINES HIGHER

SPEED LIMIT

750’

DO NOT PASS

750’ RIGHT LANE ENDS

750’ ROAD WORK AHEAD

LEFT

Illustration: Carlie Van Winkle

By Keri Pittman, Snow Plow Subcommittee The WYDOT Safety Committee, a collaboration of employees throughout WYDOT, re-commenced monthly meetings in January. The committee quickly realized that efforts were needed to reduce snow plow accidents and work zone hazards. As a result the Work Zone Subcommittee and Snow Plow Accident Subcommittee were formed. The Work Zone Subcommittee tackles all hazards related to all work zones. This dedicated group has tackled everything from advanced warning devices in the work zones, the WYDOT Employee Memorial, the inconsistency of traffic control, and how to personify our workers to the public. One of the first accomplishments has been getting all construction zones knocked down to 45 mph when a single lane closure is required, without having to complete tedious paperwork. The work for this subcommittee is ongoing as new challenges and concerns are brought to light. They continue to push forward to address what is needed to keep our employees safe while working within a work zone. The Snow Plow Subcommittee jumped in by trying to identify the causes and find solutions to prevent snow plow accidents. They are addressing the possible causes, such as the inexperience of our newest drivers, poor visibility on the roads during adverse weather, as well as the circumstances involving the public striking our plows. To better understand where accidents were occurring, the subcommittee reached out to Highway Safety for five years of data regarding WYDOT involved accidents. From there, they developed a Geographical Information System, which mapped multiple layers onto Google Map Pro. These layers provide a visual representation of the accidents and include vital information the subcommittee can use to help prevent future accidents. The subcommittee is currently piecing together a proposal for WYDOT’s Equipment Committee with a recommendation to introduce airfoils to the all plow blades. Evidence has shown the airfoils help keep the snow blow back from obstructing the plow driver’s view, which allows the driver to focus on the road. The main safety committee and the two subcommittees meet once a month. They have tackled their respective tasks with enthusiasm and are a cross of many different WYDOT personnel. It should be noted that no subcommittee meets without an Employee Safety representative present, as they provide great guidance and direction, as well as help keep the subcommittee on task. Safety Committee minutes can be found on the Employee Safety intranet page as well as the Safety Committee Google drive. Please take the time to review what is going on behind the scenes to keep yourself and your co-workers informed. The Safety Committee meets the last Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m. Do you want to help work behind the scenes? Contact the Employee Safety Office if you have any questions or would like to participate. n

Photo: Google Earth

WYDOT Safety Committee happenings behind the scenes

Game & Fish By Sara DiRenzo, Wyoming Game and Fish Department Cheyenne - Flaming Gorge boaters and recreationalists; the Wyoming Game and Fish Department needs your input. Game and Fish is finalizing a plan that will guide actions in the event that aquatic invasive species — like zebra and quagga mussels — are discovered at Flaming Gorge Reservoir. If mussels are ever discovered at the Gorge, there will be changes that impact boaters and other recreationalists in an effort to prevent their further spread throughout Wyoming and the nation. Game and Fish is asking anyone who boats, fishes or spends time enjoying the water at Flaming Gorge to take time to review the draft rapid response plan and provide input on the implementation through a short feedback form. Anyone can submit feedback until March 1. The response plan will only go into effect if invasive mussels are detected. “Wyoming has been working hard for over a decade to keep aquatic invasive species out of Wyoming. We have been successful with the public’s help stopping at check stations and making sure to clean, drain, dry,” said Alan Osterland, chief of fisheries. However, Game and Fish is concerned that zebra and quagga mussels could make their way to Flaming Gorge. That’s why the department has developed a plan to act quickly if mussels are detected. “We want your help to finalize these rapid response plans and want you to be aware of the changes that could occur if mussels are found. Changes could be significant to boaters and others,” Osterland said. If mussels are detected at Flaming Gorge, boaters could see some of the following changes immediately. • Close reservoir to all shore launching and close Brinegar’s Ferry and Upper Marsh Creek boat ramps; • Limit boat launching and trailering to Firehole Canyon, Buckboard Crossing and Anvil Draw ramps; • Establish exit check stations at or near each of the three open boat ramps; • Require inspections for all exiting watercraft and, if necessary, decontamination; and • Begin construction on strategically placed highway check stations. A full list of impacts for all user groups, including a timeline of potential changes and monitoring schedule, can be found in the plan. “Keeping our state free of AIS like zebra and quagga mussels is a top priority of Game and Fish. If detected in Wyoming’s waters, they could have catastrophic impacts to the water, the biodiversity of the area, recreation and even municipalities. A mussel infes-

tation will also be very expensive to Wyoming and our residents,” Osterland said. Game and Fish developed this draft plan in collaboration with Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, the Ashley National Forest and Bureau of Reclamation with input from stakeholders and businesses whose work is related to Flaming Gorge. Game and Fish plans to present the Flaming Gorge rapid response plan, along with the input from the public, to the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission at their April meeting for approval. Over the next several months, the department will roll out draft plans for 22 additional high-priority waters in Wyoming for public input. For more information on Game and Fish’s efforts to protect Wyoming from aquatic invasive species, visit the AIS webpage at https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Fishing-and-Boating/Aquatic-Invasive-Species-Prevention.

https://www.USGS.gov

Public input sought on plan to combat invasive mussels if found at Flaming Gorge

Screenshots of the Nonindigenous Aquatic Species maps found on the www.USGS.gov website show the proliferation of the aquatic invasive species quagga mussels (top) and zebra mussels (bottom) across the United States.

Wyoming Game and Fish launches new user account for customers Anyone who wants to make a purchase or apply for a license from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department will be required to create a username and password. This new way to login to the licensing side of the Game and Fish website will increase security for customers and streamline purchases. This is the first of many improvements for the public coming to the Game and Fish website in 2021. n

March 2021

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TechNotes WYDOT IT makes changes to FTP to make it more secure

By Aimee Inama WYDOT is making changes to its FTP servers to provide a more secure environment while ensuring users can still access and transfer large files electronically. IT is planning to switch the FTP server setup from a single server to two servers in March. The previous setup housed both secure and anonymous FTP transfers on a single server. To provide an extra layer of security, IT will move the anonymous FTP and secure FTP to two separate systems for added protection. FTP allows for the transfer of large files that can’t be emailed. The new system will enable users to have access to either the anonymous or secure FTP systems, depending on their needs. For the anonymous FTP site, users have several ways to transfer files. For the web client feature, IT can create groups consisting of members who can then send files back and forth. For example, there could be a Public Affairs group within the anonymous FTP. Members of the Public Affairs group can then send large files to each other. However, with this being an anonymous FTP, there is the chance that an outside party could gain access to those files. The anonymous FTP site will continue to have an anonymous login feature as well. Some programs currently use this feature and the new system will continue to offer that. For the anonymous login feature, IT creates a folder with an anonymous login. IT can set the security on that folder so that

other people can’t upload files and only the owners of that file can upload to it. Another option on the anonymous site would be to use the file sharing option. That features turns the file sharing requests into an email system where a user can request files and send files to someone, when the file is too large to be emailed directly. Within the system, a person would just complete the necessary fields, upload their files and send an email to the person they want to share it with. There’s an option of adding a password to make it more secure to each user. The person who gets the email sent to them will receive a link where they can access the files. Users can specify the length of time the link is available for use before it’s automatically deleted. This option is more secure than the anonymous FTP access as long as https is used to access the site. If employees need a more secure option because they are dealing with sensitive information or with a third-party vendor, the secure FTP (SFTP), site would be the best option. To have access to the secure FTP, employees will need to contact IT and let them know the IP address of the outside person or company that needs to be added to a whitelist, which would give them permission to access the SFTP server. A password would also be created so the person can access the system. IT would then create a secure folder that only the sender and receiver can access. IT can also create a group of people that can access that particular folder. Employees who need access to the secure FTP site or need it set up should contact AJ Myers, Cheyenne IT Applications, at aj.myers@wyo.gov. n

Google training available Looking to brush up on your Google app understanding? OnBoarding a State employee who is new to the Google suite? Have a Google App question? Curious about the new Google Meet features? ETS is proud to announce the February-May 2021 virtual Google Apps training dates! These courses are for beginners, advanced courses are in the works! Held the 3rd Wednesday of each month: (March 17, April 21, May 19)

Held the 3rd Thursday of each month: (March 18, April 22, May 20)

9 a.m. - 10 a.m. Gmail

9 a.m. - 10 a.m. Google Slides

11 a.m. - Noon Google Calendar

11 a.m. - Noon Google Docs

1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Google Drive

1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Google Forms

3 p.m. - 4 p.m. Google Sheets

3 p.m. - 4 p.m. Google Meet

There is no need to RSVP for the training sessions. If you are able to attend please try to arrive at the top of the hour. ETS supports your professional growth and we’re pleased to help you make the most of G Suite. For more information and the

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March 2021

course descriptions, please visit the ETS Training Portal or email ETS Trainer, Jennifer Proctor, at ets-gct-trainer@wyo.gov. n

Training

• Improving Your Judgement and Making Better Decisions

Learning Your Way

• Slaying Your Dragons and Becoming Your Own Hero

By Kurt Borgaard, Training Services How do you like to learn? Instructor led classes, like those from WYDOT-U? E-Learning, like those from LinkedIn Learning and the WELL? Recorded presentations, like those from the Transportation Learning Network (TLN)? Or maybe TED Talks, Podcasts or book summaries like those from Readitfor.me? WYDOT University has five new Competency Learning Tracks in which you are in charge of building the curriculum that works best for you and your learning needs: • Being a Better Communicator: How to Listen and How to Say It

By using the initial assignment tool in the Learning Track, you and your supervisor can identify the focus of your learning and the preferred content comprised of WYDOT-U classes, eLearning from LinkedIn Learning and the WELL, Transportation Learning Network recorded presentations,TED Talks, Podcasts, and Readitfor.me book summaries. When you’re finished with your content, the second assignment in the learning plan helps you build an Action Plan that will allow you to use all that you learned. The above-mentioned learning designed for all Check outtracks theseare upcoming training WYDOT employees, notopportunities just supervisors.from They WYDOT-U, can be helpfulthe creating PMI Goals, as well as developing your knowledge and Transportation Learning Network (TLN) skill in each of these competency areas and the new WELL. Learning Tracks are your way to develop knowledge and skills designed by you. Give them a try. n

Training @ a Glance

• Customer Service the WYDOT Way

• Becoming a Better Team Member (to Enhance Your Team’s Effectiveness)

Training @ a Glance In March: Date Class 3/30/21

TLN: Identifying and Quantifying Contractor Inefficiencies WEB-1188

Coming in April & May: Date Class 4/12/21 4/22/21 5/10/21 5/18/21

Know WY – Google and WELL Basics, Know WY Event 2 Webinar Know WY – New Employee Onboarding Workshop (Event 3)* Know WY – Google and WELL Basics, Know WY Event 2 Webinar Franklin Covey’s Speed of Trust Foundations

Check out these upcoming training opportunities from WYDOT-U, the Transportation Learning Network (TLN) and the new WELL.

Class Hours

Location

8:30am - 10:00am

TLN – Webinar

Class Hours

Location

8:00am - 12:00pm 8:00am - 12:00pm

WYDOT – Webinar WYDOT – VILT / Webinar

8:00am - 12:00pm 8:30am-4:30pm

WYDOT – Webinar WYDOT – TBD

*All new employees are automatically assigned the Know WY Learning Plan and should register for one of these workshops in their My Learning section of the WELL

Visit the Training Services intranet page for more information.

Wellness

Wyoming on Wellness would like to give state employees one-year free access to the Daily Burn as part of the program. The Daily Burn is an online on-demand workout platform that offers thousands of virtual workout classes. Employees can access the Daily Burn from their phone, iOS device, or computer – from anywhere there is internet connectivity. Workout videos are downloadable to watch at times internet access isn’t available. If employees are interested in the free one-year subscription to the Daily Burn, visit WyomingonWellness.org website to find out more and how to register to get your unique code with instructions. n

Image: screenshot of dailyburn.com website

Wyoming on Wellness offers employees Visit the Training Services intranet page for more information. one-year subscription to The Daily Burn

Check out what The Daily Burn offers at dailyburn.com

March 2021

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Tourism

The Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, a unit of Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites, and Trails, currently coordinates and facilitates two outdoor recreation collaboratives with the aim of developing and managing outdoor recreation opportunities in order to help diversify and strengthen the state’s economy. The two existing groups are focused in Hot Springs, Washakie, and Bighorn counties (the Bighorn Basin Outdoor Recreation Collaborative - BBORC - www.bborc.org) and in Fremont County (the Wind River Outdoor Recreation Collaborative - WRORC). These groups consist of diverse stakeholders, including land managers, business owners, landowners, elected officials, conservationists and recreationists. Using a grassroots and consensus based approach, these collaboratives identify and prioritize goals and projects that they believe will be beneficial to their local areas in terms of economic development and resource management. Three new collaboratives are currently being formed in Park, Sweetwater, Campbell, Crook and Weston counties. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about these initiatives, please contact Chris Floyd, manager of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, at 307-679-2507 or chris.floyd@wyo.gov. n

Happy 307 day from Wyoming #WY307

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March 2021

Photo: Rick Carpenter

Three new outdoor recreation collaboratives

District News

Headquarters

Welcome Job Lopez, Materials-Bituminous; Donald Payne, Patrol-Support Services Manager; Elizabeth Sharp, Patrol-Support Services Manager; Austin Smith, Patrol-Support Services Manager; and Cynthia Stull-Lozier, Patrol-Support Services Manager.

Promotions and Transfers Thomas Allen, Planning-Counter Shop; Baylor Beers, Highway Development-Project Development; Lance Jenkins, Equipment-Mechanics; Eric Spring, Patrol-Capitol Services Protection; Enid White, Materials-Administration.

Tarryn Demers, Planning-Local Government Coordination – 5 years; Sara Holderman, Purchasing-Admininistration – 5 years; Brandon Margetich, GIS/ITS – 5 years; and Adam Schutzman, Planning-System Planning – 5 years.

Retirements Cheryl Argento retired Jan. 5, with 33 years of service to the state, from GIS/ITS as a Transportation Management Center quality analyst.

Argento

Charles Engbretson retired Jan. 15 as an associate buyer for Patrol-Support Services Operations. He served the state for four and a half years.

Jenkins

White

Service Awards Russell Howe, Construction Staff – 40 years; Jesse Burgess, Equipment-Mechanics – 15 years; Terry Reagan, Compliance Investigation – 15 years; Rachel Hansen, Internal Review – 10 years;

Howe

Holderman

Burgess

Schutzman

Leroy Everitt retired on Jan. 16 as a senior Right of Way specialist. Engbretson Everitt began his career with WYDOT in December 1985 as a finals and control employee with Right of Way. Prior to his employment with the state, he was in the U.S. Air Force. He was enlisted in 1955 and was stationed across the U.S. – Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, New York, North Dakota and South Carolina – and other U.S.A.F. bases around the world – Germany and Japan – before landing at F.E. Warren A.F.B. in Cheyenne in February 1972. Everitt retires with 35 years of service to WYDOT. Therese Goodman retired on Jan. 5 with 18 years of service from Highway Project Management Oversight as a records and data management specialist. Goodman began her career with WYDOT in December Goodman

2003 as an administrative assistant. She had also worked in Project Development as a project analyst. Martin Kidner retired Jan. 9 from Planning with 39 years of service to the state. Kidner retires as the state planning engineer. He began his career in October 1981 as an engineer in Kemmerer before accepting an engineering position in Pinedale. Kidner He was also an engineer and resident engineer in Lander before moving to Cheyenne where he took a position with Maintenance Staff. Kidner holds a bachelor of science in civil engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, as well as a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College. Kidner is a veteran, having served in the Idaho Army National Guard and the Wyoming Army National Guard. He was deployed during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. Carl Moody retired on Jan. 6 as heavy mechanic supervisor in Equipment. He retires with 30 years of service to the state. Moody began his career with WYDOT in November 1990 in Cheyenne Maintenance. He moved on to mechanics, becoming lead mechanic and later to fabricator Moody supervisor. He enjoys being outdoors camping, fishing, hunting and riding 4-wheelers and spending time with his kids and grandkids.

Congrats Mark Wingate was selected as the state Planning engineer effective Feb. 15. n Wingate

March 2021

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District 1

Mark Janes, Saratoga Maintenance; Chandler Bohnen, Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad; Tory Johnson, Afton Maintenance.

Promotions and Transfers Kahal Lattin, Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad; and Alan Moore, Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad.

Moore

Service Awards Brian O’Connor, Arlington Maintenance – 15 years; and Samuel Finkle, Laramie Construction – 10 years.

Retirements Anthony Avila retired on Jan. 5 from Cheyenne Maintenance with 39 years of service to the state. Avila began his career in July 1981 with

Avila

the old Wyoming Highway Department as a maintenance operator in Rawlins. He held many positions during his career including heavy equipment operator in Rawlins, equipment operator in Saratoga, equipment and heavy equipment operator in Cheyenne, most recently being crew leader for the Cheyenne I-80 crew. Avila will get to enjoy fishing, bow hunting and golf more often now that he’s retired. Richard DeMoney retired on Jan. 16 from District 1 Shop as district equipment manager. DeMoney got his start with WYDOT 13 years ago as a mechanic in Cheyenne, moving up to foreman before taking his position as district equipment supervisor two and a half years ago. DeMoney He said he will stay busy in retirement with plenty to do, including spending time with his mother and other family and friends. Kelly Finn retired on Jan. 9 with 25 years of service from the Wyoming Highway Patrol. He retires as lieutenant from the Elk Mountain division. Lt. Finn started his career in law enforcement in January Finn

District 2 Wheatland Maintenance – 15 years; and Clayton LeDoux, Kaycee Maintenance – 5 years.

Service Awards Barry Schulenberg, Casper Mechanics – 15 years; Ricky Schultz,

Schultz

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Retirements Schulenberg

LeDoux

March 2021

A.L. Gruwell retired on Jan. 4 from Douglas Maintenance as a highway maintenance technician with 32 years of service to the state. He began his career in October 1988.

1996. He achieved the position of Motor Carrier Trooper in May 2004, before promoting to lieutenant’s rank in Elk Mountain, Division P in June 2011. While in Division P, he handled numerous largescale events on I-80. Lt. Finn was well respected by everyone he worked with and community members throughout the state. He received numerous recognitions both from within the agency and the public for going above and beyond in helping in a time of need. James Kladianos retired on Jan. 9 from Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad as the principal engineer. Kladianos began his career with the old Wyoming Highway Department, WYDOT’s predecessor agency, in June 1976 as an engineer with the Bridge program. In 1982, he moved Kladianos over to the Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad and remained there until his retirement. He is a graduate of UW in civil engineering – earning his bachelor’s degree in 1976, his master’s degree (structures) in 1989 and his doctorate (transportation) in 2002. Additionally, Kladianos has been teaching one course per semester at the University of Wyoming Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering since 1987 teaching and tutoring WYDOT interns. He retires with 44 years of service to the state. n

District 3

Service Awards Ember Brown, Evanston Construction – 20 years. n

Gruwell

Right: Trooper Scott Neilson was presented with his 15-year service award by Lt. Matt Arnell (right) on Feb. 17 in Evanston. Neilson is stationed in Lyman.

Photo: WHP

Welcome

District 4 home in Colorado as well as spending time with his wife Janine and traveling.

Welcome

retire from WYDOT, as his father, Gayle Money, was the resident engineer in Buffalo many years ago. When asked what he planned to do with all of his free time, he replied, “Whatever I want.” n

Andrew Conrad, Sheridan Maintenance; Avery Rothleutner, Traffic-Electrical; and James Temple III, Driver Services-Sheridan/Buffalo.

Photo: WYDOT

Congratulations

Finkle

Koepp

Service Awards Mark Baumgartner, Traffic-Signing – 35 years.

Retirements

Baumgartner

Kerry Money retired Jan. 5 from Buffalo Construction as a construction manager/land surveyor after 21 years on the construction crew in Buffalo. Money was one of just a handful of professional licensed surveyors working for WYDOT. He is Money not the first Money to

Division Q Lt. Tim Boumeester presents Trooper Josh Undeberg with his 15-year service award.

Division Q Lt. Tim Boumeester presents Trooper Brandon Morton with his 5-year service award.

Trooper Nicholas Curley with Col. Kebin Haller on graduation day. Curley is assigned to Division Q in Sundance.

March 2021

cle After cy

ading! Re

James Evensen retired from District 4 Construction Staff as district construction engineer on Jan. 5. He retires with 10 years of service to the state. Evensen came to WYDOT as the district traffic engineer, a position held for seven years and then moved to the Evensen district construction engineer position in 2017. He is originally from Wray, Colorado, graduated from Utah State University and spent time in Alaska and California prior to moving to Wyoming. Evensen is looking forward to helping his nephew build an off-grid

Photo: WYDOT

Isaac Finkle, District 4 Construction Staff; and Erik Koepp, Sheridan Mechanics.

Highway Patrol Capt. Jason Green retired from Sheridan Patrol district office on Jan. 9 after nearly 21 years of service with WHP. Green started his career in Rawlins, Wyoming, in January 2000. He was selected as a narcotics K-9 handler in 2001. Green While patrolling as a K-9 handler, Green received many acknowledgments for felony drug arrests. He was promoted in 2011 to lieutenant’s rank in the Pinedale (Division T) area. While supervising troopers in Division T, he also helped instruct Criminal Interdiction classes for the Wyoming Highway Patrol Basic Classes. In 2016, he was promoted to captain, which oversaw Sheridan, Campbell, Crook and Weston Counties. Green received the Colonel’s Commendation (Top District of the Year Nominee) for 2017, 2019, and 2020 and won the top district in 2017. Jason and his wife Sarah are looking forward to many new adventures in east Texas.

Photo: WYDOT

Promotions and Transfers

Photo: WYDOT

Rothleutner

Please R e

Conrad

Jim Evensen’s wife is a home economics teacher and made the cake for his retirement party.

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District 5

Promotions and Transfers David Neff, Cody Maintenance.

Service Awards Steven Otto, Traffic-Electrical – 10 years.

Retirements

Otto

Clarence Hancock retired Jan. 5 from Basin Maintenance as a highway maintenance technician with 12 years of service to the state.

Regina Schulmeister retired Jan. 24 from Worland Patrol as a trooper with 15.5 years of service to the Wyoming Highway Patrol. Schulmeister was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. After graduating high school, she attended the Federal Schulmeister Police Academy graduating in 1988 with the second highest score of her class. She received three awards in Academics and Defensive Tactics. She was a Police Officer in Argentina for 12 years. In 1997, Schulmeiser was selected to

Letters

attend the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Virginia. She was the first female officer in Argentina to attend this prestigious training. While in Virginia she fell in love with the country and its people and in 1998 returned to the U.S. and settled in Wyoming. In 2002, she joined the U.S. Naval Reserves to become a medical corpsman. In 2005, she joined the Wyoming Highway Patrol and graduated the academy with the Colonel’s Leadership Award. In 2009, she was selected as top trooper of the year. She was stationed Elk Mountain and Thermopolis prior to her service in Worland. Schulmeister was a 2017 honoree of Wyoming Women Making History. n

Motor Vehicle Services receives kudos

Thank you WHP and WYDOT

Dear Damion: Thank you. However, those words just don’t seem enough to justify your work and professionalism. Everything looks great. You have done a wonderful job. Your customer service is outstanding and remarkable. You know your job well and your dedication to WYDOT and the State of Wyoming is commendable. You walked our company through what I thought was going to be a long, tedious, confusing and difficult process with no trouble at all. You are very well-informed and knowledgeable as to the rules, regulations, policies and paperwork. We are SO thankful you handled our IFTA/IRP information and account and look forward to working with you and the State of Wyoming for years in the future. Furthermore, you are true to your word. When I first called in January to learn how to begin this process you said, “The most important thing to us is to keep interstate commerce moving.” You have done just that and I have no doubt you will continue. You should be proud of yourself and all you do. Damion, everyone in our company is impressed with you. The State of Wyoming/WYDOT is lucky to have you on board.

Kudos and a huge thank you to the Wyoming Highway Patrol in Cody for assisting travelers Sunday evening, Feb. 21, on WYO 120 north of Cody on the south end of Chapman Bench. Extremely high winds were screaming across the highway, creating a long patch of ice and a ground blizzard of epic proportions. Patrol set up a relay to ferry vehicles safely through the worst part of the blizzard. Otherwise, vehicles would have spun out of control and off the road like a demolition derby. I went through about 7:20 p.m. I don’t know how long they had been there or long they stayed, but I’m really glad they were on hand. At times, as we slowly moved forward behind the patrol car, you could not see the car in front of you nor the delineator posts on the side of the road. There was also a WYDOT snowplow sitting in the Bennet Buttes turnout at the north end of the Bench with it’s lights flashing, warning everyone to slow down. They all kept everyone safe.

Thanks again for taking care of us, Jill York

Top-notch employees make roads safer Hello! We drove over Togwotee Pass last night (Feb. 12, around 9:00 p.m.) and wanted to compliment and thank the plow drivers who were on schedule because they made our trip a much safer and less stressful time. So if it is in your ability, please give them a pat on the back!

Thank you, Lexi McReynolds 20

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March 2021

Mack H. Frost

Driver Services employee compliments Regretfully, I didn’t get the name of the gentleman who helped me get my driver’s license, but he was super friendly, worked quickly and made the entire process totally pain free. Everyone at WYDOT Driver’s License Services building were friendly, professional and efficient. This was most pain free visit I’ve had to the DMV. Being military, I’ve had to visit the DMV quite often and in several states across the country. The employees here are top notch! Thank you.

Darby Barraza

*Editor’s note: The Driver Services employee was John Soto in Cheyenne.

Passings David L. Mullen

David Lynn Mullen, 71, of Sheridan, Wyoming, and Lake Havasu City, Arizona, passed away on Jan. 19. Mullen was born in Fort Collins, Colorado and shortly thereafter, his family moved to Rawlins. It was there that he developed a lifelong love for hunt- Mullen ing with his father, brothers and friends. After graduating from Rawlins High School in 1968, he went on to study Civil Engineering at the University of Wyoming. After graduation, he landed his first job at the Wyoming Department of Transportation, kicking off a rewarding 40-year career as a construction engineer that took him and his family from Cheyenne to Rawlins, back to Cheyenne and finally to Sheridan where he retired in April 2013 as the District 4 construction engineer. In 1970, he met and fell in love with Sara (Madison) Mullen, and they wed in 1973, going on to have three daughters,

Melanie, Katharine and Stephanie. Throughout the family’s transitions from city to city with WYDOT, Mullen’s faith was constant. He and his wife, Sara, found many welcoming congregations and a home at Trinity Lutheran in Sheridan. He shared his love for camping and road trips with adventures to the mountains and to visit many relatives, singing as they drove. It was the love of camping and family that brought the Mullen family to join the Casper Water Ski Club at Alcova Reservoir. Mullen created special memories pulling the girls skiing and tubing with friendships that spanned decades. The Lake continued to be a place where time was spent with their daughters and spoiling their four grandchildren as much as possible. After retiring in 2013, Mullen generously offered his time, knowledge and guidance in helping friends and family with countless projects. He enjoyed the planning just as much as the work. Retirement enabled Mullen to begin a new chapter of life spending winters in Lake Havasu City, Arizona where he and Sara met many new friends. He could always be found at happy hour or on the golf

course. When it is safe to gather friends and family, a celebration of life honoring Mullen will be held in Sheridan – hopefully this summer. Details will be announced when available.

George Nuhn George Nuhn, 76, of Cheyenne, passed away Feb. 1, in Cheyenne at Davis Hospice Center with family and friends at his side. George was born in Miles City, Montana on Feb. 6, 1945, and he grew up on the family ranch northwest of Alzada, Montana. He married his high school sweetheart, Karen Brammer, on April 3, 1966. He had two sons, Cory and Jared, and two grandsons, Tyler and Kyle. Nuhn plowed snow for District 1 for 18 seasons until he left WYDOT in April 2014. He was a wonderful husband and father, and was an exceptional “papa.” He was Past Master of Cedar Lodge No. 124 AF & AM in Belle Fourche, South Dakota. A celebration of a life well lived will be held at a later date. n

WTDEA State Board scholarship applications now available

The 2021-2022 WTDEA State Board Scholarship Application is available on the Intranet WTDEA page, under the State Board tab. The deadline for applications is April 30. There are two $600 scholarships up for grab. The applicant must have at least a 3.0 GPA and be a dependent of a WTDEA member. The WTDEA member must be a dues paying member for two consecutive years to qualify. The application can be found on the WTDEA intranet page. n

March 2021

Interchange

Once upon a windy day

Photo: Beth Wood

Monday, Feb. 22, was a rough day for light and high-profile vehicles along I-25, I-80 and US 85 in southeast Wyoming. Evidence that strong Wyoming winds are no laughing matter.

Photo: WYDOT

A dash cam video caught this commercial vehicle trying to keep it “wheels down” on the pavement, but was eventually overcome by the strong gusting winds. Notice the already downed 18-wheeler on the side of the road. These trucks were on US 85.

I-25 southbound at milepost 71.

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Photo: WYDOT

I-25 northbound at about milepost 54, just south of Chugwater, an unsuspecting driver was caught off guard by a gust of wind. The vehicle remained in a precarious situation but did not fall from the overpass.

I-25 from around milepost 56.

March 2021

Photo: WYDOT Photo: WYDOT

A semi-truck (foreground) and a recreational vehicle both took hits on I-80 near Cooper Cove.

I-25 southbound at milepost 56. The wind blew over a parked vehicle.

Photo: WYDOT

The I-25 Bordeaux southbound webcam witnessed this 18-wheeler. Notice the windsock just to the left of the wreckage.

I-25 southbound at milepost 71.

March 2021

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Photo: Shawn Coggins

Rides

Meeteetse Maintenance Foreman Shawn Coggins owns these snow covered classic pickup trucks. On the left is his 1952 Ford and on the right, a 1972 Chevy. The ‘52 Ford F1 is all original minus the wheels. It has a 239 Flathead V8, 6-volt system with three-on-the-tree. It has been in Coggins’ family for years. The ‘72 Chevy is also all original with the exception of the wheels. It has a 350 motor with automatic transmission and has been in the family for more than 40 years.

Purpose

Mission Vision Values

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March 2021

TAXES & IRS SCAMS 1

Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card, or wire transfer. The IRS does not use these methods for tax payments.

Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other law-enforcement groups to have the taxpayer arrested for not paying.

Demand that taxes be paid without giving the taxpayer the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.

Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

TIPS FOR (safely)

E-FILING TAXES:

TAX SEASON SECURITY BASICS: File your taxes as early as possible Protect your personal information Keep your computer secure and up-to-date Don’t fall for phony threats or requests for information

Things the IRS will never do:

1. If you hire a third-party provider to file on your behalf, do some research and ensure they’re trustworthy. 2. Always protect sensitive accounts with strong, unique passphrases. 3. Before submitting any personal info, verify that the site you’re on is legit and shows a green padlock by the URL. 4. When downloading tax documents, be sure to save them to a secure location where they can’t easily end up in the wrong hands.

awareness SAC the security C O M P A N Y

March 2021

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Love

YOUR HOME LOAN

Let your home pay you back with a home equity loan! • 5- and 10- year terms • No closing costs • Borrow up to $100k • LTV up to 90%

additional loan details & application available at wyhy.org WyHy Federal Credit Union

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1.800.442.2392 & MemberServices@WyHy.org

March 2021

Break Time Logic puzzle time! Draw two lines across the shape to divide it into as many pieces as possible. Hint: aim to get six pieces.

Answer to the February 2021 Break Time maze:

Interchange subscription issue? Update your address:

1) Complete and return this slip to WYDOT Public Affairs Office, 5300 Bishop Blvd., Cheyenne, WY 82009, or 2) Send an email to Carlie Van Winkle at carlie.vanwinkle@wyo.gov. Add me to the mailing list

Retiree Employee

Change my address

Remove this address; person no longer lives here or is deceased.

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

Name Current address City, State, Zip Previous address City, State, Zip

March 2021

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

Pre-sorted Standard U.S. Postage Paid Cheyenne, WY 82009 Permit No. 24

Interchange – March 2021

Articles inside

Letters

Once upon a windy day

Game & Fish

Also in this issue

Aeronautics

District news

By the Numbers

TechNotes