October 2020 Interchange

Interchange October 2020

Vol. 48, Issue 10

Laramie-Walcott section of interstate hits half-century mark

Photo: WYDOT

Celebrating the late season ribbon cutting of Oct. 3, 1970

Longest section of I-80 completed in 1970

By John Waggener, archivist, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming It was a beautiful autumn morning in Arlington on Saturday, Oct. 3, 1970 – a perfect day for a late-season ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the last major section of Interstate 80 to be completed across the state,

with only a short section east of Cheyenne remaining. Known as the Laramie-Walcott stretch, this 77-mile section of highway between Laramie and Rawlins has the distinction of being the longest section of Interstate to be open at one time in the United States.

Continued on page 8

The 77-mile Laramie-Walcott section was dedicated on Oct. 3, 1970, at a ceremony at Arlington where Governor Stan Hathaway (center) cut the ribbon officially opening I-80. Joining him from left to right are Highway Department Superintendent Ross Stapp, Deputy Federal Highway Administrator Ralph Bartelsmeyer, Carpenter High School student and Girl’s State participant Lynda Sue Plambeck, and State Highway Commission Chairman Gus Fleischli Jr.

Contents Features 8 Stretch of I-80 turns 50 77-mile Laramie-Walcott section finished in 1970

Also in this issue Letters................................................................................................................ 2

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Vol. 48, Issue 10

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.

District briefs.................................................................................................... 3

Staff

By the Numbers.............................................................................................. 6

WYDOT Director: K. Luke Reiner

Game and Fish................................................................................................ 7 Training at a glance........................................................................................ 7 Employee Safety........................................................................................... 11 Tourism............................................................................................................13 District news..................................................................................................14 Training............................................................................................................16 Outdoors.........................................................................................................16 Passings...........................................................................................................18 WTDEA.............................................................................................................21 Break Time......................................................................................................23

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.

Letters Helpful service at Wheatland Driver Services On Sept. 14, I had my license renewed at the Wheatland office. I usually cringe at the thought of going to the DMV. But today was an entirely different experience.

Deb, the attendant, was very pleasant and straightforward and helped me renew my license. I was very impressed.

It was very refreshing to work with someone with a positive and cheerful attitude. I commend her.

Daniel Melcher

Kindly recycle this publication after reading.

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A WYDOT PUBLICATION

District Briefs Headquarters

Commission awards $62.7 million in contracts in September CHEYENNE – The Wyoming Department of Transportation will pave 13 miles of Interstate 80 between Rock Springs and Rawlins to improve the surface.

The Wyoming Transportation Commission awarded Interstate Highway Construction Inc., of Englewood, Colorado, a $20.8 million contract for the work in Sweetwater County. The commission awarded that and six other projects totaling $62.7 million at its meeting in September.

For the I-80 work, crews will mill the existing asphalt surface and replace it with concrete, which typically lasts longer. Crews will also replace the Baxter Interchange near Rock Springs by reconstructing the underneath portion of the structure.

The contract completion date for the work is Nov. 30, 2021.

The other contracts the commission approved included paving, chip sealing and road widening work.

Simon Contractors, of Cheyenne, was the low bidder on a $19.8 million contract for the Interstate 80 Winter Freight Improvement Project. WYDOT previously received a federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant for the work.

Crews will install truck climbing lanes on 2 miles eastbound over Halleck Ridge and 3.53 miles westbound between Cooper Cove and Quealy Dome Road.

The project also includes installing Ft. Steele and Quealy Dome truck parking areas, which will each accommodate about 100 trucks.

If the interstate closes, the additional truck parking will enable truck drivers to park safely while they wait for winter conditions to improve. If the interstate is open but conditions are poor, truck drivers can use the truck parking to wait out the storm.

Additionally, the additional climbing lanes will help with traffic flow and will

also help prevent secondary crashes when the interstate reopens following a road closure.

The contract completion date is Oct. 31, 2022.

The commission awarded Avail Valley Construction LLC, of Afton, a $19.7 million for a 9-mile road widening and reconstruction contract for US 89 between Thayne and Alpine Junction.

Crews will widen the lanes from two to five, creating two lanes northbound, two southbound and a center turning lane.

Crews will also perform pavement work on the road to improve the road surface.

The contract completion date is June 30, 2022.

Also awarded by the commission were contracts for: • $1 million to Mountain Construction Co., of Lovell, for a materials stockpiling contract for various locations in Fremont County by June 30, 2021; • $676,828 to Oftedal Construction Inc., of Casper, for a rock scaling contract on I-80 at the bottom of Telephone Canyon in Albany County by Aug. 31, 2021; • $515,179 to Northern Improvement Co., of Fargo, North Dakota, for a chip sealing contract on about 13 miles of WYO 159 beginning in Torrington in Goshen County by Aug. 31, 2021; and • $77,055 to S&L Industrial, of Cowley, for a slope paving and bridge repair contract on I-80 at the Ft. Steele Interchange in Carbon County by Nov. 30, 2020.

FMCSA announces extension of deadline for expired CDL/CLP holders CHEYENNE – Commercial driver license and commercial learner’s permit holders whose credentials have expired or will soon expire now have until Dec. 31, 2020 to renew.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has pushed the extension on certain expired credentials until Dec. 31, 2020. Previously, FMCSA provided extensions for commercial

driver licenses and permits back in April because of the coronavirus pandemic.

That extension was initially set to expire on Sept. 30, 2020.

The most recent extension also applies to DOT Medical Examiner’s certificate, but the extension dates on this waiver are slightly different. For CDL or CLP holders whose DOT Medical Examiner’s certification expired between March 1, 2020 but before June 1, 2020, the requirement under 49 CFR 383. 73(o)(4) is waived until Oct. 31, 2020.

For CDL or CLP holders who have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after June 1, 2020, the requirement under 49 CFR 383. 73(o)(4) is waived until Dec. 31, 2020.

“Even though FMCSA has pushed the deadline on these extensions, our offices are open and we are urging commercial drivers to renew their expired (or expiring) credential either in person or by mail prior to the expiration date on the card to eliminate any potential backlog that may occur,” said Misty Dobson, program manager for Wyoming Department of Transportation’s Driver Services Office.

“In addition, if you have obtained a new DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate, please ensure we get a copy of this before you current card expires.”

Drivers who haven’t already renewed their expired licenses and are currently operating under the FMCSA waiver or Gov. Gordon’s Executive Order 2020-9 should visit their local exam stations to have their CDL/CLP renewed.

Drivers who need to submit a valid DOT Medical Examiner’s Certificate to the department can email it to CDL@wyo. gov, send it by fax to (307) 777-4922 or drop it off at any Driver Services location.

District 1

Bridge work began on I-25 southbound near Lincolnway CHEYENNE – Starting Sept. 21, motorists on I-25 southbound in Cheyenne were warned of potential delays as maintenance crews with the Wyoming Department of Transportation worked on Briefs continued on page 4 October 2020

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WYDOT maintenance crews worked to repair the burnt areas, which are primarily located along US 30/287 and WYO 72 near Hanna.

Critical areas of fencing are being prioritized first for repairs, but cattle may wander into the roadway until repairs are complete. The project was expected to take multiple weeks.

Briefs continued from page 3 bridge repairs.

The southbound passing lane between mileposts 8.9-9.14 were closed through the week as crews worked on structure repairs, including slab and deck surface repair work.

The work zone is close to high-traffic areas like the I-25/US 30 (Lincolnway) interchange as well as the I-25/I-80 interchange.

A width restriction of 14.5 feet was in place and oversized loads needed to find alternative routes.

Unlike similar work that occurred in this area in August, this project did not affect interstate on- and off-ramps within the work zone.

Wildlife warning signs installed in Sheridan, Johnson, Weston counties SHERIDAN – WYDOT and contractors finished installing new wildlife warning signs with LED flashing borders.

Solar powered, these new signs replaced several static wildlife warning signs found on Wyoming highways. Although they may look like the traditional signs to the naked eye, the LED flashing border is visible from dusk to dawn indicating a high animal activity area. The signs are set to flash only during months of higher animal activity in each area.

WYDOT worked with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department to determine the locations and times of year with the highest animal-vehicle collisions in northeast Wyoming for these signs.

The project is a low-cost safety measure to attempt to lower the number of animal-vehicle collisions and is one of the first of its kind in Wyoming. Signs were installed in the following locations: • I-90: Milepost 10-32 from Ranchester to Sheridan;

District 3

Temporary signals deployed to help with congestion on off-ramp

Train derailment cleanup along US 30

Photo: WYDOT

BOSLER – Motorists on US 30/287 just south of Bosler were encouraged to stay alert and be prepared to slow down as crews worked to clean up debris from a train derailment that occurred the weekend of Aug. 22.

Cleanup efforts near milepost 312 involved frequent highway crossings by personnel, equipment parking or moving within the highway rights-of-way and equipment frequently entering and exiting the highway, among other activity.

Derailment cleanup along US 30/287 south of Bosler.

District 4

EVANSTON – The Wyoming Department of Transportation addressed congestion issues at the I-80 eastbound off-ramp onto Front Street in Evanston.

Preliminary investigation by WYDOT showed an issue with summer weekend/ holiday traffic backing up onto the interstate, especially recreational trailers and motor homes, trying to turn left off the off-ramp.

WYDOT deployed portable signals as a temporary solution to observe traffic operations and safety. The traffic team placed three portable traffic signals on each leg of traffic at the on-ramp. Signal wait times were adjusted to prevent queuing on the off-ramp.

The signals began normal operation Sept. 2 and carried throughout the Labor day weekend. The signals were removed on Sept. 8.

“This being a holiday weekend, we thought this would be an ideal situation to deploy this demonstration project.

We can use the information and data we collect from this weekend and use it to help decide what to do in the future from here,” WYDOT District Traffic Engineer Darin Kaufman said.

• WYO 335: Milepost 0-9.5 from the Big Horn Y to Red Grade Road; • I-90: Milepost 43-55 from Piney Creek to Buffalo; • US 16: Milepost 48-63 west of Buffalo near Powder River Pass; • US 16: Milepost 0-17 east of Buffalo to Ucross; • I-25: Milepost 290-300 south of Buffalo to Trabing Road; • I-90: Milepost 59-108 east of Buffalo to Kingsbury Road; and • US 16: Milepost 250- 259 east of Newcastle to the South Dakota state line.

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Evanston congestion issues were addressed Labor Day weekend with temporary traffic lights.

Photo: WYDOT

HANNA – Motorists through Hanna were warned to stay alert for potential cattle within the rights-of-way after the 316 Wildfire over Labor Day weekend burned several miles of the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s right-ofway fencing.

Photo: WYDOT

Potential cattle in rights-of-way near Hanna

New solar powered LED signage placed to help WYDOT and WGFD lessen animal-vehicle collisions.

GILLETTE – WYDOT and its contractor S & L Industrial installed thermoplastic pavement markings at various intersections around Gillette during three weeks in September.

The work began Aug. 31 with closures beginning at 6 p.m. Contractors worked throughout the night and ended operations at 6 a.m. each day. The closures were Monday through Friday and were completed by Sept. 18.

Thermoplastic pavement markings are thicker and more wear-resistant than other types of marking paints. These markings are used to clearly mark traffic lanes, road boundaries, crossings and turn arrows at intersections.

District 5

Passing lane construction east of Moneta on US 20/26 SHOSHONI – Work continued on construction of seven sets of passing lanes between Shoshoni and Casper on US 20/26.

The $5.8 million project begins east of Moneta (milepost 76) and continues to Waltman (milepost 51.6).

The new US 20/26 passing lanes are being constructed between mileposts 51.6 to 52.7 (passing lane 1), mileposts 54.8 to 56.0 (passing lane 2), mileposts 57.1 to 58.3 (passing lane 3), mileposts 61.6 to 62.8 (passing lane 4), mileposts 64.9 to 66.4 (passing lane 5), mileposts 68.5 to 69.7 (passing lane 6), and mileposts 74.5 to 76.0 (passing lane 7).

Crushed gravel base was placed on passing lane 7 the week of Sept. 18, east of Moneta. The contractor worked until 7 p.m. each day and Saturdays.

Other major work involves removal of surfacing, grading, leveling and repaving of the Waltman Rest Area parking area.

The rest area was closed for up to two weeks during the project.

Mountain Construction Co., of Lovell, is the prime contractor on the US 20/26 passing lane project. The contractor was awarded the contract on July 18, 2019, by the Wyoming Transportation Commission. Contract completion date is Oct. 31.

closed for this work,” Frost said.

During the $4.93 million Sheridan Avenue project, traffic was carried on one lane in each direction on one side of the street, while work was being completed on the other half of the street.

The work zone speed limit was set at 20 mph and left turns were not allowed through the work zone.

Photo: WYDOT

Gillette intersections closed nightly to place thermoplastic pavement markings

Work on passing lanes being constructed on US 20/26 east of Moneta Sept. 17.

Night grinding began between 14th, 15th streets in Cody CODY – Concrete grinding began Sept. 21, between 14th and 15th streets and between Beck and Alger avenues on the Sheridan Avenue concrete rehabilitation project in downtown Cody.

Night grinding hours are scheduled between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m.

“The contractor completed all work from 14th Street through 15th Street on the south half of Sheridan Avenue, except for some minor Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades on the southeast corner of 15th Street,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Todd Frost of Cody. “The south intersection of 15th Street/Sheridan Avenue and the lane closure reopens to live traffic tonight.”

The west side Alger Avenue/17th Street intersection reopened to traffic Sept. 1, in Cody, but the west side of the Beck Avenue intersection closed as improvements continued on the $4.93 million Sheridan Avenue concrete rehabilitation project.

Continued work by contractor S&S Builders LLC, of Gillette, includes replacement of concrete slabs, curb and gutter, double gutter, sidewalk and ADA upgrades around the corner from 17th Street to Sheridan Avenue in the eastbound lanes.

“The west side of the Beck Avenue/17th Street intersection remained

WYO 120 paving complete south of Cody; chip seal set for June 2021 CODY – Asphalt paving is complete on a $5.5 million highway improvement project south of Cody on WYO 120.

Mountain Construction Co., of Lovell, is the prime contractor on the 6.8-mile project.

The Cody South project is located between the WYO 120/US 14/16/20 intersection adjacent to Yellowstone Regional Airport and milepost 74 near the snowplow turnaround south of the Park County Landfill.

“The contractor is working on signs, mailboxes, reclamation and other cleanup,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Todd Frost of Cody. “Guardrail will be placed on the Cody Canal and Alkali Lake bridges, as there’s been a delay in receiving some of these materials. All this work, except the chip seal and shoulder fog seal, will be completed by Oct. 31. Motorists should expect short traffic delays.”

The newly-paved highway’s chip seal and fog seal is scheduled for June 2021.

The WYO 120 project includes full reconstruction from the intersection of WYO 120 and US 14/16/20 (milepost 81.21) to the south for 2,000 feet. A 5-inch asphalt pavement mill and overlay hooks into the reconstructed highway and continues to near the entrance of the Park County Landfill, and pavement leveling and a pavement overlay complete the project from just south of the landfill turnoff to milepost 74.

Contract completion date is Oct. 31.

Briefs continued on page 6 October 2020

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Asphalt milling and paving underway on US 20/WYO 789 project through Thermopolis THERMOPOLIS – Paving is under way on a $3.3 million highway improvement project through the town of Thermopolis on US 20/WYO 789.

Prime contractor is McGarvin-Moberly Construction Co., of Worland.

Some paving is currently happening near the Hot Springs State Park headquarters on the north end of Thermopolis, between Mondell and Washakie streets, and near WYDOT on the south end of Thermopolis.

Wednesday, mainline paving is scheduled to begin at WYDOT and the operation will work its way north in the southbound lanes of US 20/WYO 789.

Once paving is complete on the southbound lanes of the highway, the northbound lanes will be paved.

“We’re expecting one week of paving, depending on favorable weather,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation project engineer Jordan Erz of Worland.

“Traffic conditions will be difficult at first, with no left turns through the area where paving is being done. Please be aware that we could have closures on the side streets of up to an hour as paving works its way down the highway.”

Erz said 2-inches (10,000 tons) of asphalt pavement will be paved in a week.

In addition, another 3/4 of an inch (3,900 tons) of wearing course pavement is scheduled through Thermopolis.

The contractor will pave over the top of manholes through Thermopolis.

“Later, the contractor will come back and cut in the concrete collars to raise the manhole covers,” Erz said.

By contract, the contractor is required to complete all work, except asphalt plant mix wearing course pavement and thermoplastic pavement markings, by Nov. 30, 2020.

The project’s scope of work includes grading, milling asphalt pavement, placing crushed base and asphalt pavement surfacing, asphalt wearing course, removal and replacement of broken sidewalk and curb and gutter, replacement of every Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

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street corner, and other work on 2.6 miles on US 20/WYO 789 beginning at milepost 130.82 (near the Wyoming Department of Transportation) and continuing past the old National Guard Armory on the north edge of town.

Photo: WYDOT

Briefs continued from page 5

September paving operations through the town of Thermopolis.

West River Road bridges replacement project public meeting held WORLAND – A public meeting was held Sept. 9 concerning a 2021-22 project to reconstruct three bridges on WYO 433 near Worland.

The public meeting was held at the Washakie County Fairgrounds. Citizens and area landowners/farmers/ranchers were invited to attend.

The 2021-22 project will replace three bridges and reconstruct the roadway on West River Road between mileposts 4.14-5.5.

“The project includes total reconstruction of the three bridges,” said Wyoming Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Kaia Tharp of Thermopolis.

“Project plans include construction beginning in spring 2021 and completion in summer 2022.”

One of the public meeting topics included taking input on a plan to limit truck traffic through the area during construction.

“Construction requirements include building the two canal bridges after irrigation flows have ended in 2021, with work being completed on the canal bridges prior to when irrigation water begins flowing to farm fields in 2022,” said Tharp. n

Total number of employees: As of Sept. 1, 2020

1,942

One month ago

1,932

One year ago

1,892

WHP Total number of highway fatalities: As of Sept. 15, 2020

87

One year ago

116

Game & Fish Courtesy of Wyoming Game and Fish Department Boating season in Wyoming is winding down and so are the Wyoming Game and Fish Department aquatic invasive species check stations. Check stations throughout the state have started to close. However, it is a requirement that any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 through Nov. 30 must undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching.

“Boaters who need to get their watercraft inspected between now and the end of November can stop by a Game and Fish office or any private certified inspector,” said Josh Leonard, Game and Fish AIS coordinator. “Any watercraft that has been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussels within the last 30 days is required to undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching during all months of the year.”

Game and Fish has a list of private inspectors online, as well as additional inspection requirements.

Boaters who went through an inspection at a Game and Fish AIS check station still have time to submit their surveys to be entered into the 2020 Wyoming AIS Boater Appreciation Raffle.

The last day to enter the raffle is Nov. 30, and winners will be selected and posted on the Wyoming Game and Fish Department raffle webpage on Dec. 1. Boaters whose watercraft were inspected received a receipt with a unique identifying number. With this number, boaters can go to the Game and Fish website, fill out a

short survey and submit their entry.

As a thanks to boaters, Game and Fish is partnering with outdoor recreation businesses to enter into a raffle for prizes. Prizes include a Nash Sub Z 23-quart cooler, Radar Weird Science Tube, a Connelly Blaze wakeboard package, guided fishing trips, coolers and a fish finder. Prizes have been donated by outdoor businesses that share a concern for the future of Wyoming’s waters: Marine Products, The Reef Fly Shop, Citimarine, West Laramie Fly Store and Buckboard Marina. n

Photo: WGFD

Aquatic invasive species check stations close for the season; Boats must be inspected through Nov. 30

Boating season winding down for the season; check stations close, but inspections through Nov. 30 at authorized inspectors are mandatory.

Training @ a Glance

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

Training @ a Glance

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

In October: Date Class

Hours

Location

10/6/20

Fiberglass Rebar and Dowels: Durable, Light, Strong and Affordable Solutions

12:30 pm - 3:30pm

TLN-Webinar

10/22/20

Know WY. New Employee Onboarding Workshop

8:30 am - 4:30 pm

WYDOT-Webinar

10/28/20 Managing the Design Process: Keeping on Schedule,

Within Budget & Selecting the Right Resources

WE: 8:30am - 12:30pm TH: 8:30am - 12:30pm FR: 8:30am - 12:30pm

TLN-Webinar

Coming in November: Date Class

Hours

Location

11/4/20

Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges: Pre-Season Tips and Advice

8:30am - 11:30am

TLN-Webinar

11/17/20

MBTI Application: Communication

8:30am - 4:30pm

WYDOT-Webinar

Visit the Training Services intranet page for more information.

October 2020

Visit the Training Services intranet page for more information.

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There is a simple reason why this was the longest section of Interstate to open at one time – there was no adjacent highway to route traffic. In the era of the construction of the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, new interstates were constructed adjacent to or near an existing highway.

Motorists of the late 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s encountered a giant construction zone where drivers would travel about 10 miles on a newly completed stretch of highway before being diverted back onto the existing adjacent highway. For drivers of this era, it was back and forth between the old two-lane road and the new four-lane interstate highway. The Laramie-Walcott project had no such road to divert traffic. The 77-mile section had to be constructed in its entirety as one long stretch.

The anomaly of a long stretch of major interstate highway like the coast-to-coast I-80 being constructed in a remote area away from an existing highway was confusing to Wyomingites.

The remaining sections of I-80 were constructed adjacent to or very near existing US 30 – the highway, originally known as the Lincoln Highway, that I-80 essentially replaced.

The origin of the confusion began with a Federal Bureau of Public Roads (predecessor of the Federal Highway Administration that was established in 1967) report that was released on May 1, 1956. The Bureau of Public Roads (BPR) began examining a new route for US 30 late in 1955. The focus of the BPR report centered on the section of the Federal-Aid Highway Act that states that routes should be as direct as possible. The bureau

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recognized in its report that, “The only opportunity for shortening US 30 an appreciable amount is between Laramie and Walcott Junction.”

The Wyoming Highway Commission opposed the shorter route and, two weeks after the release of the federal report, responded to the BPR stating that it “hereby expresses its opposition to any major changes in the existing location of the interstate highway, US 30, between Laramie and Walcott Junction.” The commission opposed the direct route because of the economic impact the bypass would have on the US 30 communities between Laramie and Walcott, and it opposed the route because of dangerous weather conditions that are common near Elk Mountain.

The state’s requests to locate I-80 near US 30 were denied repeatedly. The highway department conducted a series of origin and destination studies in the late 1950s. Motorists were asked Photo: Ronald Tabler Papers, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

Continued from front cover

Photo: WYDOT

Stretch of I-80 turns 50 in 2020

During the early years on I-80, there were no road closure gates. Highway Department crews stood on the road, displayed a Road Closed sign, and waved orange flags to alert motorists to turn back.

Sometimes the problem is blowing snow and sometimes it is drifting snow as in this case at the Cooper Cove Exit. Drifting was abated after the installation of snow fences in the early 1970s.

Photo: Ronald Tabler Papers, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

“Boy Howdy!” That is how this Dec. 13, 1972 scene at milepost 271 was described by Ronald Tabler.

The coincidence of the occurrence of unrelated events led to this rumor-turned-myth.

It did not take long for the Laramie-Walcott section to take on a new and unfortunate title. Just four days after Gov. Stan Hathaway cut the ribbon to open I-80, a winter storm shut down the highway. The Snow Chi Minh Trail was born.

Conventional winter maintenance techniques were no match for the new highway. This 77-mile stretch of road became a testing ground for the highway department. An all-new and much larger snow fence was designed to replace the recurve fence the department relied on for many decades. The first snow fences were installed in 1971.

In the early years of the highway, the Wyoming Highway Department had no way of closing I-80. By 1973, it installed road closure gates at Laramie and Walcott – perhaps the first use of gates on a major U.S. highway.

The use of variable message signs also was ushered in, when, in 1976, overhead signs were placed at the Curtis Street Exit in Laramie and at Walcott Junction. WYDOT also initiated the variable speed limit on this section of road. In the fall 2008, WYDOT announced the new program.

Then WYDOT Director John Cox said of the VSL, “What we’re trying to do is create new driving habits on this section of

Photo: Ronald Tabler Papers, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

during a roadside interview if they would use a new route that saves 19 miles between Laramie and Walcott. Nearly 90 percent of drivers, mostly out-of-state travelers, said they would use the shorter route. Those same motorists said they had no plans to stop in the towns the new highway would bypass – Rock River, Medicine Bow and Hanna.

After three years of being denied its request to locate I-80 along US 30, and much to the displeasure of many Wyomingites, the Wyoming Highway Commission voted during its May 15, 1959 meeting to accept the federally proposed direct route for I-80. At that same meeting, the commission voted to delay construction on the Laramie-Walcott stretch to help protect the economies of the US 30 communities. Construction was delayed seven years.

Before construction had even begun on this section in the summer of 1966, I-80 already was opened to traffic from Walcott Junction in a westerly direction to Rawlins, and from Laramie in an easterly direction to Cheyenne with only a short section near the Summit remaining under construction. The clock ticked for another four years before the road was completed and opened to traffic. From the time the routing debate began in May 1956 to the time it opened to traffic on Oct. 3, 1970, more than 14 years had passed. During this time, the 77-mile gap grew into something of a mystery and obscurity for Wyomingites and I-80 travelers.

Myths began to spread around the state about the origin of the route. Some said Lady Bird Johnson was responsible for the location of I-80. Rumor had it that the first lady flew over the debate zone, and, upon seeing the landscape, said something to the effect of, “Put it there,” referring to locating the road near the scenic mountains versus keeping it on the wind-swept plains along Highway 30. This myth is steeped in the so-called Lady Bird Laws, which dealt with highway beautification.

The highway beautification act happened to be implemented by the federal government just prior to construction beginning on the Laramie-Walcott section. At the time of the passing of the law, the first lady happened to be in Wyoming. She was in Green River for the dedication of Flaming Gorge Dam and Reservoir.

Rotary Plow: When the Snow Chi Minh Trail opened in the fall of 1970, a new Sicard Snowmaster BU52, shown here at milepost 262 on Dec. 26, 1972, was purchased for the Elk Mountain Maintenance Shop.

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Zig-Zag Snow Fence: WYDOT has designed and tested numerous snow fences. Here, Robert Jairell, with the U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station in Laramie, inspects the 12-feethigh Wyoming Zigzag vertical test fence at a test site at Arlington on April 9, 1971.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Laramie-Walcott section of I-80, the Wyoming State Historical has published a special 50th anniversary edition of the Snow Chi Minh Trail: The History of Interstate 80 between Laramie and Walcott Junction. Written by John Waggener, an archivist at the University of Wyoming’s American Heritage Center, this special golden anniversary expanded edition includes updates, additional historical information, additional maps and photographs made available to the author after the release of the previous edition of the book in February 2018. Copies of the book will be available at select bookstores across the state in October or by contacting the Wyoming State Historical Society. Email linda@wyshs.org to request copies. The author can be contacted at waggener@ uwyo.edu.

Photo: Ronald Tabler Papers, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

highway particularly prone to extreme weather conditions that can change quickly. Our goals are to reduce crashes, save lives and decrease crash-related highway closures.”

The Snow Chi Minh Trail story is a story about a major transcontinental highway that was constructed in a do-not-enter zone.

The fact that the infamous title is no longer commonly used is the result of the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s unending efforts to improve road and travel conditions, highway safety and information technology.

Some places have lots of wind. Some places have lots of snow and some places have busy transcontinental highways. Few locations have all three. Together, the three create a collision course.

90-mile-per-hour winds, frequent winter blizzards and thousands of cars and trucks passing through the area each day, coming together in a dangerous mix. Although the highway conditions have been tamed through decades of innovative safety improvements, this stretch of road continues to demand the highest level of attention and resources from the Wyoming Department of Transportation. n

Photo: Ronald Tabler Papers, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

Photo: Ronald Tabler Papers, American Heritage Center, University of Wyoming

A Wyoming Highway Patrolman assists at a crash site that occurred on Nov. 19, 1971.

The most serious areas of drifting that led to closures between Laramie and Walcott were controlled with snow fences erected by Cyril Rahonce and Company of Rock Springs during the summer and fall of 1971 and 1972.

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October 2020

Employee Safety The Importance of a Safety Culture

By Geoff McPherson, Employee Safety Anchorage points associated with fall protection equipment were placed on the sides of a United States Naval dry dock. This was so employees of a concrete company could attach fall protection equipment and perform spall repairs at heights while being protected from falls. An experienced employee was saw-cutting the concrete and safely tied off. He had an assistant that had six months on the job. The saw needed fuel; he climbed down, unhooked the fall protection equipment and then went to refuel the saw.

When he returned he did not re-tie to the fall protection equipment, instead he climbed up and began saw-cutting. When he finished saw-cutting he lowered the saw below to his assistant.

During his descent he slipped and fell. The total distance of the fall was 15-feet. He broke his shoulder, collar bone, tailbone and every rib in his body. He also bruised his right kidney. The assistant did not feel comfortable informing the senior co-worker that he needed to be tied off. If the company had a good safety culture the assistant would have spoken up.

What does a good safety culture mean? Does it mean a positive safety record or does it mean plans have been made for safety? The simplest answer is a safety culture is attained when employees have inclusion in the successful completion of all tasks. In other words, employees feel they have a say in discussing the hazards associated with their job assignment tasks and the methods to remove the hazards.

Some common barriers to achieving a good safety culture in an organization are: 1. Productivity before safety Productivity always comes before safety, as safety is viewed as a cost, not an investment.

2. Fear Problems remain hidden as they are driven underground by those trying to avoid sanctions or reprimands.

3. Ineffective leadership Blinkered leadership and the prevailing corporate culture prevent the recognition of risks and opportunities leading to wrong safety decisions being made at the wrong time, for the wrong reasons.

4. Non-compliance Managers and the workforce not following the standards, rules and procedures.

5. Miscommunication Critical safety information is not relayed to decision-makers and the message has been diluted.

6. Competency failures There are false beliefs that direct hires and contractors are highly trained and competent.

The Employee Safety Team continues to coordinate efforts with all levels of leadership to develop procedures and methods to encourage a good safety culture. A case in point is the new Job Safety Analysis (JSA) policy and how supervisors are advised to work closely with their subordinates in the creation of localized JSAs. In addition to JSAs, Toolbox Safety Briefs are also an ideal way to get the feedback from the employees and to build trust.

Over the past year, the Employee Safety Team has also worked with managers and employees to improve the delivery of the clothing allowance and prescription eye wear program. These efforts led to employees receiving stipends to purchase work clothing that increases their comfort and safety while at work.

Also, employees requiring prescription safety eye wear can now receive prescription quality safety eye wear at no personal cost.

These changes were prompted by feedback from employees statewide and we will continue to evaluate other safety initiatives to improve our culture.

We often hear that some people think that a good safety culture cannot exist due to our high-operation tempos. This line of thinking is wrong. Much larger companies than ours have been tremendously successful in creating a positive and preventative safety culture within its organization.

One example is Northrop Grumman, a company that employs more than 90,000 personnel, where a strong safety culture exists and has been a central focus for generations. Their safety program states, “We work to protect the health and well-being of our employees and to provide our customers with high-quality, reliable and safe products. We are committed to safe operations and are diligent in our safety practices and processes. Every employee has a voice in ensuring that they and their coworkers are not exposed to hazards in the workplace. This benchmark safety culture has significantly improved morale, leading to greater production with far less accidents, and resulting in better economic results.”

We should aspire to achieve a safety culture like Northrop Grumman and other highly successful companies.

Over the past six months, WYDOT has had two employees who have suffered major injuries from falls similar to the one discussed at the beginning of this article. These valuable members of our team are now experiencing personal suffering and dealing with the discomfort of their injuries. Let us make a commitment to each other to not fall into any of the traps of putting productivity before safety, to use miscommunication, or a lack of training as an excuse to focus only on getting the job done.

An organization with a good safety culture is characterized by communications founded on mutual trust, by a shared perception of the importance of safety, and by confidence in the efficiency of preventive measures. Changing our safety culture for the better starts with all employees working together to make a safer tomorrow. We’re committed to this challenge, are you?

“We must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

– Former U.S. President John F. Kennedy n

7. Ignoring lessons learned Critical safety information is not extracted, shared or enforced.

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Employee Safety

Photo: WYDOT

By Jordan Striff, Employee Safety What does fall protection matter? According to OSHA, falls are still among the most common causes of serious work related injuries and deaths. Most happen due to a lack of fall protection controls or equipment, lack of proper training or not completing a pre-job safety briefing, such as a Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

WYDOT isn’t immune to falls and we have had two employee fall incidents with significant injuries in 2020. One of the biggest cause of injuries and accidents within the workplace is often just rushing to get the job done. You’re probably familiar with phrases, “I can get the job done faster without it,” “I don’t have 10 minutes to spare to don and doff the fall protection equipment,” or “It’s only 4 feet.” There are plenty of bad excuses on why someone may not wear fall protection, but there are a thousand reasons why you should. You matter! Your family, friends, co-workers and the citizens of Wyoming depend on you to safely meet WYDOT’s mission.

Earlier this year, I was tasked with building from the ground up WYDOT’s new Fall Protection Program and Policy. With the help of Todd DePorter (Employee Safety Program Manager) and Geoff McPherson (Senior OSHA Specialist), this program and accompanying policy are being painstakingly researched and developed. This new program is intended to make us safer at work and significantly improve our safety culture when it comes to fall protection. New standardized equipment: harnesses, trauma straps and self-retracting lanyards will be available through procurement. Additionally, specific training on the equipment, as well as on the known fall hazards will be offered. The program

and associated training will also provide our supervisors clear direction and guidance to follow. This program brings everything together and will spell out when and where fall protection is required based on hazard recognition and analysis. The intended roll-out for the new program will be in January 2021.

There are different trigger heights and safety requirements for fall protection clearly outlined in OSHA and ANSI standards that WYDOT must comply with. Fall protection isn’t just a harness and lifeline (safety professionals call this a Personal Fall Arrest System or PFAS). It may also consist of guardrail systems, safety nets, positioning/restraint systems, ladders, aerial lifts, warning lines, controlled access zones and other safe work practices. By exercising this program, in combination with the JSA and safety discussion policies, it will give our supervisors and employees the training and knowledge to begin to think about fall hazards before the work ever begins. This will help to appropriately manage fall hazards and focus attention on prevention efforts, rather than the “after effects” of falls (rescue, injuries or fatalities). This program is an example of the safety bedrock the WYDOT Employee Safety Program is striving instill. It is intended to transition us into a leading indicator program, which predicts and eliminates hazards before they occur, and in turn creates a stronger safety culture for you.

Best practice dictates that fall protection be an integral part of our safety program and by promoting this change in safety culture, we hope to accomplish the most meaningful goal for any safety program: protecting the safety and health of our employees. We want you to be safe on the job, so you can enjoy time off the job. You are an important member of our WYDOT family and it is why fall protection matters. n

Old and worn equipment removed from a WYDOT program. This equipment was replaced with new fall protection harnesses and lifelines.

Take “cone zone” conditions with you. Get the WYOMING 511 app. www.wyoroad.info

Know before you go.

Visit wyoroad.info.

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WYDOT’s Travel Information System is the one and ONLY source for up-to-the-minute road and travel information.

Photo: WYDOT

On the Horizon: Fall Protection

Tourism Pledge to adventure responsibly Courtesy of the Wyoming Office of Tourism We’re all longing for space to be wild and free. Wyoming offers that safe haven for visitors. But it comes with a responsibility. We encourage all who visit to join us in caring for the health of our natural spaces, the wildness of the outdoors and the well-being of ourselves and our neighbors.

Enjoy natural spaces responsibly Wyoming’s wide-open spaces make for epic camping and hiking. But before you set out, here are a few things to know.

• Avoid overcrowding: Outdoor recreation is more popular than ever right now, causing overcrowding in some of Wyoming’s most beautiful areas. So what do you do if you show up to a trail and the parking lot is packed? Instead of joining the crowd, know what other options are around. Be ready to seek different trails and lesser-known experiences. You can find ideas here.

• Be fire aware: Help prevent human-caused fires by following basic best practices. Respect fire bans in place, choose a campsite with a pre-existing fire ring whenever possible and never leave your fire unattended. Make sure you have plenty of water available to put out your fire; you’ll need to completely extinguish it at night and before you leave camp.

• Stick to the trails: Ride, hike or drive only on designated trails to help reduce impacts and protect wildlife. Planning to do some off-roading? The state of Wyoming requires a permit to use trails and roads that are part of Wyoming’s state off road vehicle program.

Co-exist responsibly Wyoming’s wildlife is plentiful and powerful. Please consider these tips so we can all peacefully co-exist.

• Staying safe: For the safety of wildlife and visitors, please keep a safe distance from all wildlife, not just the animals that seem scary to you. It’s recommended to stay at least 25 yards away from elk or bison and 100 yards away from bears and wolves.

Find more information here on wildlife safety and best watching spots.

• Respecting wildlife: Wyoming is filled with some of the largest and longest migrations in the world. To keep it that way, we ask visitors to respect habitats by not altering campsites, trails or developed recreation sites.

• Fishing: If you plan to enjoy Wyoming’s incredible fishing, be sure to visit here for licenses and boat inspection information.

Photo: Carlie Van Winkle

• Keep it clean: Almost half of Wyoming’s 98,000 square miles is publicly owned, including many undeveloped areas that have no bathrooms or garbage facilities. It is up to all of us to do our part in keeping these spaces clean. Take all trash with you when you leave, don’t burn glass and metal in your campfire and bury human waste at least 100 feet from water sources.

Be part of a responsible community The spirit of the west is wild and welcoming. But it’s not reckless. Together, we follow these key guidelines.

• Be healthy: Please respect posted signs and announcements for health and safety guidelines and requirements so we can continue to enjoy our community spaces.

• Be flexible: Many government agencies and visitor centers are operating with reduced staff and resources due to COVID-19.

Planning ahead – especially for those new to the outdoors – and being flexible can help reduce the demands on these smaller crews and enhance your travel experience in Wyoming.

• Be an early bird: Early birds avoid the crowds. Visit the parks during non-peak hours (before 9 a.m. and after 3 p.m.) and seasons (April and May, September and October) for a more intimate experience.

• Be prepared: Wyoming’s open roads and beautiful scenery were built for road trips. But there are a few things to be aware of. Keep an eye out for wildlife unexpectedly crossing the road.

Bring a map (especially in areas where cell service is inconsistent). And make reservations – for camping or a hotel stay – ahead of time so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute.

This is currently a requirement for all Wyoming State Park campsites. n

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Headquarters

Welcome Debbie Churchill, Financial Services-Disbursements; Kathryn Everett, Driver Services-Policy and Records; Kameron Stroup, Bridge-Engineering Design; and Amber White, Emergency Communications-Administration.

Promotions and Transfers Brandon Johnson, Patrol-Safety and Training.

Service Awards Larry Crosby, Highway Development-Project Development – 35 years; Mark Falk, Geology-Administration – 35 years;

Camelia Kidd, Driver Services-Policy and Records – 30 years; A.J. Myers, IT-Engineering Applications – 25 years; Duane Ellis, Patrol-Safety and Training – 20 years; Christopher Pivik, Contracts and Estimates – 20 years; Kevin Schwaiger, Highway Development-Project Development – 20 years; David Luegering, IT-Engineering Applications – 15 years; Julianne Monahan, Planning-System Planning – 15 years; Kelli Vosler, IT-Development – 15 years; Carlie Van Winkle, Public Affairs – 10 years; and Brandon Cook, Facilities Management-Custodial – 5 years.

Congratulations Alison (Ali) Helgoth Ragan has been selected as the Grants and Contracts Policy Program manager effective Oct. 5. She replaces Ken Ledet.

Most recently, Ragan worked for GIS/ITS as a Project Manager.

Cradle Call

Ragan

Cailey Annistyn Lindsay was born July 1, joining Jason and Chelsey Lindsay and big sister Cassidy at home. Mom, Chelsey, works in the Budget program. n

Photo: WYDOT

District News

Retirements

Crosby

Hans Hehr retired Aug. 3 from Procurement Services as the buying and purchasing manager.

Hehr began his career with WYDOT in October 1980 with Office Services in mail distribution. In 1981, Hehr moved to Procurement Services where he held many Hehr positions including buyer and assistant purchasing manager.

He had earned a Certified Professional Public Buyer certification from the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing in 1992.

Hehr retired with 39 years of service to the state.

Falk

Ellis

Pivik

Schwaiger

Luegering

Van Winkle

Cook

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Holly Hopwood retired Aug. 1 as a Human Resources associate.

The Cheyenne East High graduate began her career with WYDOT in August 1996 in the Facilities Management program. A year after her hire, she moved to the Employee Safety Office and remained there until her recent move to the Human Resources office.

She retired with 24 years of service to the state.

District 1

Welcome Chris Bowden, Medicine Bow Maintenance; and Jayden Forbes, Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad.

Promotions and Transfers Baylor Beers, Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad; James Dykes, Highway Development-Project Development-Laramie Design Squad; Kord Newkirk, Arlington Maintenance.

Service Awards Margaret Biggs, Laramie Construction – 35 years; Corey Kimzey, Traffic-Electrical – 20 years; and Michael Kurz, Emergency Communications-Telephone – 15 years.

District 1, cont.

District 2

District 4, cont.

Promotions and Transfers Glenn Maguire, Douglas Construction.

Service Awards Kimzey

Retirements David J. Chatfield retired from the Wyoming Highway Patrol on Aug. 13 with 25 years of service.

Chatfield began his career with Patrol in January 1994. He was originally stationed in Laramie. He had also been stationed in Cheyenne, but was Chatfield most recently stationed at Elk Mountain.

He was a member of the Wyoming Highway Patrol Association and was a past president of the Wyoming State Troopers FOP. David Rettinger retired from the Wyoming Highway Patrol on Aug. 15 with 29 years of service.

He earned a bachelors degree in criminal justice from Minot State University in North Dakota.

Rettinger is a veteran of the U.S. Army where he was a Rettinger combat medic and was discharged as an E-5 sergeant.

He was assigned to and remained in Laramie for the entirety of his service to the state.

Congratulations Ralph Tarango has been selected for the District Engineer position in District 1 as of Sept. 15, 2020.

Correction The photo placed in last month’s Interchange for Robert Russell was incorrect.

We apologize for any inconvenience it may have caused. n

Lance Green, Torrington Maintenance – 20 years; Ronald Patrick, Torrington Maintenance – 20 years; and Robert Harvey, Casper Maintenance – 5 years. n

Wolfensperger

Brannigan

Gribble

Miazga

Service Awards Maguire

Green

Patrick

Harvey

Michael Kuhl, Sundance Maintenance – 25 years; and Richard Taggart, Sundance Maintenance – 25 years.

District 3 Kuhl

Welcome John Caldwell, Evanston Maintenance; Richard Cantrell, Rock Springs Mechanics; and Kyle Creswell, Kemmerer Construction.

Taggart

Retirements Mark Williams retired Aug. 29 from Newcastle Maintenance with five years of service as a highway maintenance technician.

Thomas

Congratulations Tory Thomas began serving as Interim District 3 District Engineer effective Sept. 1. n

District 4

Cradle Call Paul Miller, Traffic Tech in Sheridan, and his wife, Brenna, and brothers Olli and Tristen welcomed Miles Conley to the family on Sept. 15 at 7:48 a.m. He weighed in at 7 pounds, 7 ounces and is nearly 24 inches long. n

Welcome Ryan Wolfensperger, Hulett Maintenance.

Promotions and Transfers Erik Brannigan, Sheridan Traffic-Striping; Jody Gribble, Sheridan Traffic-Striping; Laura Miazga, Driver Services-Regional 4.

Photo: Paul Miller

Biggs

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Outdoors

District 5

Welcome

Shawn Coggins, Meeteetse Maintenance – 25 years; Jimmy Hallam, Riverton Maintenance – 20 years; and Kari Davis, District 5 Administration – 10 years. n

Coggins

Hallam

Training

Bridge employee Vickie Hintze spent a weekend at the lake this summer.

She caught and released this beautiful trout. She didn’t measure or weigh because she had just a few seconds to get the fish back in the water. This was the biggest trout she has ever caught.

Cassandra Kaul, Gillette Construction Tech, and the 26 pound walleye she caught at Keyhole Reservoir.

Upcoming fiscal year learning tracks

By James Boyd, Training Services If you’ve been reading our Training Services articles in the Interchange, you know that we wrote about our new Fiscal Year 2021 schedule in last month’s edition and that we’re continuing to explore the Learning Theme ideas moving into this year.

FY20 Learning Theme

In Training Services, we’re currently working on building Learning Tracks and anticipate that our first track will be available to all employees early in 2021. Our vision of a Learning Track is a little different than our vision of a Learning Theme.

Here are some of the key differences:

FY21 Learning Track

Last year’s Learning Themes were based on a single competency, for example, Coaching. The learning theme’s content (book summaries, eLearning, videos, etc.) all focused on that one competency.

A Learning Track will be based on a broader skill set. For example, a possible learning track titled, “Making Decisions that Matter” might focus on multiple competencies such as Organizational Awareness, Planning & Prioritization, Problem Solving and more. The learning track’s content will still include content from sources such as book summaries, eLearning, videos and more.

The FY20 Learning Themes were broken up into weekly assignments. Content related to the learning theme was populated into the WELL every week and reminder emails were sent to employees who were enrolled or had registered.

The FY21 Learning Tracks will include all content when they are launched. Once enrolled, employees can work through the track at their own pace. No additional emails will be sent.

The FY20 Learning Themes were assigned to all supervisors, and open for registration through the WELL for any interested employees.

The FY21 Learning Tracks will NOT be assigned to supervisors, but will be open for registration to all employees.

We’re excited to be working on these Learning Tracks and encourage employees and their supervisors to explore the topics they’re most interested in. For more information, please contact a member of the Training Services team and be on the lookout for our Learning Tracks coming in FY21. n

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Photo: Cassandra Kaul

Service Awards

Photo: Vickie Hintze

Joshua Kipley, Basin Construction; and Kayla Slack, Driver Services-Lander/ Dubois/Riverton.

Silas Speidel, son of Rusty Speidel with Sundance Highway Maintenance, makes his own lures and used his mouse to catch a nice pike from Keyhole reservoir.

Photo: Rusty Speidel

Photo: Rusty Speidel

Photo: Toni Schoolcraft

Toni Schoolcraft, a Buffalo maintenance tech, harvested this very impressive bighorn sheep ram on Sept. 2 in the Wind River Mountains above Meeteetse. The Ram scored a 163” on the horns.

Photo: Davi Duran

Photo: Davi Duran

Photo: Andrea Staley

Silas and Addy Speidel fished the Belle Fouche river. Addy caught her biggest catfish to date.

Sheridan’s Senior Construction and Field Survey Technician, Heath Oetken, along with his father, brother and nephews were fortunate to travel to Alaska for some fishing. They went halibut fishing about 30 miles from the Cook Inlet and caught pinks (humpies) and silver salmon on the Kenai River just outside of Soldotna.

Photo: Zach Armstrong

District 4 Public Involvement Specialist Laura Dalles took this picture in July when she was at the Observation Point slide repair project on US 14A. She quipped, “the wildflowers were insane this summer!”

Photo: Heath Oetken

Photo: Laura Dalles

Riverton retiree Davi Duran’s granddaughters, Mary Lyn and Hevvyn, had some summer fun swimming in a secret underground pool west of Dubois.

District 4’s District Clerk Andrea Staley spent some time with her brother, Joe, after his recent retirement from the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. Andrea and her brother practiced some serious social distancing exploring the Sheridan area and the Big Horns.

Zach Armstrong, Buffalo shop supervisor, snapped this pic of Kelsey Armstrong on Sept.

17. It was her first time archery hunting and the first bull she has ever harvested.

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Passings Richard B. Coley 26.

Richard Bryson Coley, 68, died Aug.

Coley was born in Gainesville, Georgia, in 1952 to Cherokee Chief Elder Leon and Rowena Coley He was a veteran who served in the U.S. Army during the Viet- Coley nam War. He worked at the University of Wyoming Observatory and retired from WYDOT after working seven years in the maintenance department in Rawlins.

He loved the mountains, hunting, fishing and reading a good book. He also enjoyed telling about his life in stories to his friends and family. Coley was known and loved by many – he will be missed.

There were no funeral services, cremation has taken place.

Larry Davis Larry Davis, former Gillette Maintenance foreman passed away on July 4. No word on services at this time.

James Keith Fowler, 64, of Sundance, died peacefully at home Sept. 3.

Fowler was born April 5, 1956 in Williston, North Dakota.

As a child, he and his family moved several times before settling in St. Paul, Minnesota with his mother and Fowler older brother. As a young man, he moved to Hulett, where he began working for the Wyoming Highway Department with Hulett Maintenance. Soon after that, he met and married his wife, Becky.

Fowler transferred to Sundance Maintenance and remained there until retirement in 2013 with 35 years of service to WYDOT. His wife, Becky Fowler, retired as the supervisor at the Sundance Port of

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Joyce L. Gallegos Joyce L. Gallegos, 59, of Cheyenne passed away Sept. 2 at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. She fought a difficult battle, was deeply loved, and will be greatly missed by her loving family and friends.

She was born May 31, 1961 in Cheyenne to Lee and Dorita Gallegos Sandoval. She married Dino Gallegos on Aug. 19, 1989 in Cheyenne.

She had worked for 24 years at WYDOT and was most recently a Highway Safety grant specialist. She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Cheyenne.

John L. Hayes

Davis

J. Keith Fowler

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Entry.

They loved to travel, especially to the island of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where they visited annually for the past 20 years.

They also spent a lot of time camping locally after retirement.

Memorial services were held Sept. 19 at Clarenbach Memorial Park in Sundance.

October 2020

1933- 2020 John Leland Hayes, 87, of Cheyenne died July 16. John was born May 23, 1933, in Superior, Wyoming. Hayes was born to Ishmael and Prudence Ethel (Dunn) Hayes. They lived in Rock Springs where he and his sisters attended and graduated from Rock Hayes Springs High.

His parents divorced and each parent remarried, giving him the opportunity to live with each parent and step-parent six months of the year. His mom and stepdad, Charles W. Melbourn, had a small homestead south of Medicine Bow. Some of the happiest times he had were on the Lechie Ranch outside of Rock Springs. Here they would live a cowboy life and have those cowboy hard times. Those times, however, would

make for great story telling much later down the road. He also spent time with his dad, stepmother, Louise Dudley, and his sister, Martha.

In 1951, John stepped away from the cowboy way of life and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He attended boot camp at San Diego Naval Station and was later stationed in Kodiak, Alaska. He was eventually assigned to the USS Bradford DD (destroyer) 545 and participated in many areas of combat in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1954, and was distinguished with the Korean Service Medal, one Silver Star, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Medal, the China Service Medal, the Korean Combat Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation, and the Good Conduct Medal.

After being discharged, he moved back to Rock Springs but the ranch had been sold and no jobs were available. He moved to Laramie, Wyoming where he worked for the University of Wyoming agronomy farm, and the Western Public Service Company while studying as an engineering student. It was during this time he met his wife, Shirley Weinberger.

Family legend has it that John first saw Shirley at a dance where he was playing in the band. He knew instantly he had to marry this dark haired, blue-eyed beauty, and after a whirlwind courtship, he indeed managed to convince her to marry him.

John and Shirley eloped to Kimball, Nebraska and were married in a ceremony attended by their best friend. They returned to Laramie where their first child, John Lee, was born. Following a change in jobs, the small family moved to Cheyenne to expand in both careers and family size.

Now working for Land Air Inc., Kristie and Blayne were born.

Eventually John worked for the Wyoming Highway Department, WYDOT’s predecessor agency, and was a cartographic engineer for several years, later retiring from Traffic with 34 years of service.

He lived the life of a traditional American cowboy. Brave, strong, compassionate and honest. He spread The Word and kept The Word. He gave his word and kept his word. He was a man with a solid hand-

shake and a helping hand. He worked for God, family, country and community.

He didn’t mind what he said, but he said what was on his mind and he was always as quick to forgive as he was to correct. A story teller to friends and strangers alike, a follower of God and leader of his fellow man, and a positive reflection of God’s light on the world.

His granddaughter, Andrea, said that he showed her how to have fun. He was always singing songs to make her laugh and loved to eat ice cream with her. John has also adopted many children and grandchildren over the years, earning himself the name “Big John” as chaperone for Saddle Tramps Dances where he “knew all,” but “didn’t tell all.” Many of the young men have said he was their hero.

He also chaperoned for the Cheyenne East High School marching band trip to Calgary, Canada (which came about due to his own initiative). The kids just loved him.

Always being active in the community and with three children, John was always doing something. While the children were growing up he managed the athletics team of the Cheyenne Junior League for several years, and continued on to serve as manager/coach of the Henry’s team in the Cheyenne Junior Babe Ruth League.

He started, and was president of, the first East High Band Parents Club. He was president of the Cheyenne Saddle Tramps, cub master for Cub Scout Pack #124 Buffalo Ridge, and president of the Buffalo Ridge P.T.A. Even as the children married and moved away, John stayed active in the community. He became a Past Master of Cheyenne Masonic Lodge No 1, a 32nd Degree Scottish Right Mason and a member of the Shrine. John held several masonic offices during this time. He was Colonel (president) of the Frontiersmen and served as Adjutant of the Frontiersmen for several years. Inspired with a love for rodeo, he was appointed Racing Secretary and Assistant Committeeman for the Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD), and in 1979 became a CFD Heels member. John was also a lifetime member of the VFW Post #1881 and American Legion Post #6.

In his final days, he was treated compassionately by nurse, Desiree Martinez and Gen E. Cotherman of Frontier Home Health and Hospice.

A Rose Croix service was held on July

25 at the Cheyenne Masonic Temple.

Max A. Kaser Max Alan Kaser, 81, died Aug. 29, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Nov. 13, 1938, in Cheyenne, to Olive (Galliher) and Rolland Kaser. During his lifetime he lived in New York state, Beirut, Boulder and Denver, Colorado and Cheyenne.

In 1960, Kaser started as a draftsman at the Wyoming Highway Department, Kaser WYDOT’s predecessor agency, working hard to earn his license as a professional civil engineer, an achievement unheard of at the time without an engineering degree.

He was progressively promoted to top positions in the Planning program, traveling throughout the state of Wyoming meeting with city and county officials as well as the Federal Highway Administration during the planning and design of I-80 from Laramie to Walcott Junction. He retired in 1991 after 30 years of service.

In 1982, Kaser followed his lifelong passion to become an ordained minister, allowing him to provide ministry as associate pastor at First Southern Baptist Church in Cheyenne. After retirement from the Highway Department, he earned his bachelor’s degree at Colorado Christian University and completed graduate seminary studies at Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. His ministry as interim and senior pastor took him to Kalispell, Montana; Spokane, Washington; and back to Cheyenne. Many in the Cheyenne community know him as Pastor Max more than any other formal title.

Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Max served on various community committees. He was a member of Heels and put in many volunteer hours at Cheyenne Frontier Days. He enjoyed performing with the famed square dance team Dazee’s Dancers. Kaser was a past Exalted Ruler of the Cheyenne B.P.O.E. He was also active in the Masonic Lodge in Cheyenne and served the Masonic youth groups, Job’s Daughters and DeMolay.

Services were Sept. 4 at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel.

Larry Jansma Larry “Jan” Jansma, 63, of Cody, passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 29.

Jansma was born in Glendive, Montana, on July 3, 1957, to Augie and Alvina Jansma.

He lived in Billings, Montana, where he met Cathy Washatko and they later married on Sept. 8, 1979.

Jansma They moved to Clark where they owned and operated Edelweiss Tavern and Campground. In 1990, they moved the family to Cody, where Larry worked for WYDOT engineering crew for more than 20 years.

They raised three sons; Derek, Jeremy and Kory. He enjoyed attending the many sporting events of his sons and spending time with his granddaughter, Zoe. Jansma spent many hours fishing the Buffalo Bill Reservoir where he caught many trout. He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and rooted for them anytime they were on TV. His recent passion was his 1969 Cutlass Supreme and 1936 Chevy Master Coupe. He enjoyed cruising around in them and also traveled to several car shows where he won a few awards between the two. He had a green thumb when it came to gardening and everyone will remember his “Dilly Beans.”

Services are pending with Ballard Funeral Home in Cody.

In lieu of flowers, any donations will be put toward his granddaughter Zoe’s college fund. A celebration of life is planned for sometime in the spring.

Gary W. Riedl Gary W. Riedl, 87, of Cheyenne, passed away on Sept. 15. He was born April 1, 1933 in Laramie to William and Orlena Riedl.

He graduated from University Prep High School and earned a bachelors and masters degree in Engineering Geology from the University of Wyoming.

Gary married Betty Riedl Passings continued on page 20 October 2020

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Good on Aug. 28, 1955.

Riedl was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, and an engineering geologist for the old Wyoming Highway Department for 33 years before retiring. He served as Chief Engineering Geologist for five years.

Jack L. Russell Jack Lionel Russell, 87, died Sept. 15, at Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne.

Russell was born Aug. 29, 1933 to Carl and Annetta Russell James.

Russell graduated from Cheyenne High School and the University of Wyoming with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations. When he Russell was drafted he joined the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged with the rank of 1st Lieutenant.

He loved telling stories about his Navy days. The highlight for him was being out on the ocean at night and marveling at the beautiful sky and stars. It was a story he told over and over.

Russell retired from the old Wyoming Highway Department, WYDOT’s predecessor agency, as HR Program Manager.

He lived a full life refereeing high school basketball games and traveling with friends to out of state bowling and golf tournaments. Among his other journeys he traveled to Europe several times with his good friend Jim Roehr. This was another highlight of storytelling.

Graveside services were held at Beth El Cemetery Sept. 22. Those who wish may contribute to Our Savior Lutheran Church, Cheyenne.

Myriah M. Stinson Myriah Marie Stinson, 42, passed away Aug. 31, at Monument Health in Rapid City, South Dakota, from injuries sustained in a car accident.

Stinson was born Oct. 22, 1977, in Douglas, Wyoming, to Gregory and Carolyn (Rogers) Stinson.

Stinson She was raised on the family ranch near Orin. She attended Douglas High School

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through the 10th grade and graduated from Saint Scholastica Academy in Canon City, Colorado, in 1996.

Stinson served her country as a medic in the U.S. Army. Upon her discharge, she received her college degree from University of Phoenix in geriatric health. At the time of her death, she was working at the Wyoming Highway Patrol Port of Entry in Gillette.

She was a free spirit who loved the outdoors and was happiest when she was in the mountains or at the lake. Her heart was overflowing with love for animals, especially dogs. She always had a special connection with all of her pets, including many bum lambs and calves on the family ranch.

She was a true patriot. She loved her country and the wide-open spaces of her home state of Wyoming.

She was an avid Denver Broncos fan and loved her Wyoming Cowboys.

She had courageously chosen to be an organ donor. Because of this, a little part of her will continue to live on.

A celebration of life was held Sept. 11 at Washington Park in Douglas. Burial was in the Douglas Park Cemetery.

Shirley A. Samuelson Shirley Ann Samuelson, 62, died Aug. 24 in a tragic accident while at work on Teton Pass.

Samuelson was born the daughter of Arvid F. Samuelson and Margaret Bateman Samuelson on April 25, 1958 in Blackfoot, Idaho. She was the oldest of three Samuelson children. By the age of two, she was already her daddy’s helper with his mechanic’s talent. She loved getting under the car with her daddy and handing him tools.

Samuelson graduated from Blackfoot High School and attended Nursing School and became an LPN. She worked at many hospitals over the years and loved taking care of people.

She was on the Wyoming Search and Rescue team for many years. She worked at Simplot Mountain Mine in Soda Springs, Idaho; at Smoky Mountain Mine in Wyoming; and at the oil fields.

At the time of her death she worked as a heavy equipment operator for WYDOT

in Jackson.

As a female for the Wyoming Department of Transportation, Samuelson was part of an exclusive club. She was the only heavy equipment operator in Jackson and one of only six female heavy operators in District 3. She worked as hard as any man and was so proud of that fact.

Samuelson died on Aug. 24 when she got out of the street sweeper she was operating on WYO 22/Teton Pass to speak to a coworker. The sweeper rolled downhill and struck her. Her coworker was uninjured.

This November would have been her third year on the Jackson crew and she had been entrusted to plow the ever challenging Teton Pass due to the more than three decades of operating heavy equipment that she had under her belt.

She loved going to the Cache County Fair with her sister and competing against men in the backhoe competition. She took the grand prize for many years. She loved all animals especially her many horses and dogs. She loved hunting every fall to fill her freezer and loved picking berries and making homemade jam for her family. She was also an excellent seamstress.

She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Funeral services were held in Thayne on Sept.

5 at Schwab Mortuary. She was laid to rest next to her father in Annis, Idaho at Annis Little Butte Cemetery. n

WTDEA WTDEA State Board Maker’s Auction Thank you to employees who made, donated and bid on the beautifully hand-crafted items to benefit the WTDEA State Board Relief Fund. The following are the winners of the auction.

The WYDOT Relief Fund’s purpose is to help fellow employees when unexpected expenses arise and assistance is needed. n

Lavender spa basket; Chance Phillips, Casper Highway Maintenance

Grill Basket; Chance Phillips, Casper Highway Maintenance

Elephant baby quilt; Ember Brown, Evanston Construction

Bee yard ornament; Heather Heiduck, Cheyenne Patrol Dispatch

WYDOT truck print; Lynn Spence, Retired-Office Services

Baby blanket set; Ludke’s Canyon Ranch

Patrol bag-black straps; Antonia Torres, Cheyenne Patrol Records

Wood planter; Becky Wetherington, Sheridan Port of Entry

Patrol bag-white straps; Bethany Akers, Cheyenne Patrol

Metal roses; Bill Weaver

Tractor quilt; Heather Heiduck, Cheyenne Patrol Dispatch

Llama scarf; Bethany Akers, Cheyenne Patrol

Got wheels? Show us your ride.

Get those photos in!

Rides issue Deadline: 11/15/20 Antler lamp; Christina Kindler, Rock Springs Construction

email to: carlie.vanwinkle@wyo.gov October 2020

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Wyoming Department of Transportation 5300 Bishop Blvd.

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