Construction on the $24. 3 million dollar Kemmerer Wildlife Crossing project next summer. The project is possible in part thanks to a $24.3 million Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program discretionary grant from the Federal Highway Administration awarded to the Wyoming Department of Transportation and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. The project will likely include five underpasses, one overpass and fencing improvements along a 30-mile stretch of the highway between Evanston and Kemmerer.
Along U.S. 189, an average of 80 deer-vehicle collisions are reported each year, although the number is believed to be underreported. Once completed deer, pronghorn and other wildlife will be able to move safely between seasonal habitats, reducing the number of animals on the roadway and increasing the safety of drivers. This project became a top priority due to projected future development and increased traffic along U.S. 189. This project also builds on existing wildlife crossing improvements completed along U.S. 189, including the Dry Piney and Trapper’s Point crossings.
Total cost is expected to be $37.4 million. In addition to the federal grant and $4.2 million in WYDOT formula funds, the Wyoming Transportation Commission, Game and Fish Commission, Wyoming Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust and other nonprofits and partners contributed $8.8 million to fully fund the project. Once completed, this project is anticipated to eliminate 80–90% of wildlife-vehicle collisions. Construction expected to take two construction seasons with a completion date no later than Nov. 2028.
Wyoming Game and Fish Department