The purpose of this project is to upgrade the highway to current standards, improve safety and increase the capacity of this section of highway. WYO 50 has seen an increase in traffic resulting in congestion, higher frequency of crashes at intersections and an increase in large and oversize loads supporting the energy industry, thus warranting the need for the upgrade.
The existing route is primarily a two-lane roadway with dedicated turning lanes at major intersections including Hamilton Street, Washington Street, Hidden Valley Road, Force Road/4J Road and Southern Drive. This project will widen the existing rural two-lane roadway to a five-lane section with curb and gutter. Travel lanes will be 12 feet wide with a continuous 11-foot center left turn lane.
“This is an urban project within city limits but the roadway is part of the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s system,” said Josh Jundt, Resident Engineer for WYDOT in Gillette. “WYDOT will be working closely with the City of Gillette but WYDOT will be administering the project. Any questions or concerns should be directed to either myself or Mike Bush who will be Project Lead on this job.”
In order to complete the project on time, and decrease the impact to the traveling public, a portion of Hwy 50 from W. Lakeway Road to Force/4J Road will be closed from May 28 through August 17. The detour route will be west on Lakeway Road to Oakcrest Drive, south to 4J Road and then back onto Hwy 50.
Your local Bobcat dealer |
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Ditch Witch West |
Faris Machinery |
Sierra Machinery |
In addition, a 10-foot multi-use path will be installed on the east side of the road to provide continuity with the pathway located north of the project and also provide a connection to the City of Gillette pathway system within the project limits. A five-foot sidewalk will be installed on the west side of the project.