YDOT outlines Green River Tunnel repair progress and future plans

In a recent meeting of the Sweetwater County Board of County Commissioners, significant updates were provided regarding the ongoing repairs of the Green River Tunnel, following a tragic incident that occurred on Valentine's Day 2025. The meeting featured presentations from John Eddins, the district engineer for the Wyoming Department of Transportation (YDOT), and communications specialist Stephanie Harsha, who detailed the progress and future plans for the tunnel repairs.

The incident involved a multi-vehicle crash that resulted in three fatalities and extensive damage to the westbound tunnel. Eddins reported that immediate traffic control measures were implemented, allowing two-way traffic to flow through the undamaged eastbound tunnel while repairs were assessed. The cleanup process began shortly after the incident, with an emergency contract awarded to Clean Harbors to remove debris and prepare the tunnels for inspection.

Eddins outlined the current status of the repairs, stating that a project is being advertised with a completion goal set for October 31, 2025. This project will address damage to the tunnel liner, upgrade lighting systems, and enhance safety features. Additionally, plans for long-term improvements include the installation of an intelligent transportation system to monitor traffic conditions and a dry fire suppression system to prevent future incidents.

The commissioners expressed their appreciation for the updates, emphasizing the importance of keeping the community informed about the repairs and safety measures being implemented. Eddins reassured them that the eastbound tunnel remains in good condition, with no significant wear and tear reported despite the heavy traffic.

In a separate agenda item, the board discussed a resolution aimed at allowing certain exempt peace officers and detention officers to earn non-Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) compensation for special operations. This resolution seeks to address disparities in compensation for officers leading critical missions, ensuring they are compensated at an overtime rate for their additional responsibilities. The resolution was presented by HR Director McClain and Sheriff Gross Nickel, who highlighted the need for equitable compensation for those involved in specialized law enforcement operations.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commissioners to support the ongoing repair efforts and to ensure that the necessary resources are allocated for both immediate repairs and long-term safety enhancements in the Green River Tunnel. The discussions underscored the county's dedication to improving infrastructure and public safety in the wake of the tragic incident.