FRA Accepts WYDOT Grant Request to Replace I-80 Bridges

Written by Kyra Senese, Managing Editor
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Courtesy of WYDOT

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has announced that the Federal Railroad Administration has accepted a multi-million dollar grant request to replace two bridges on Interstate 80 that cross over the Union Pacific Railroad.

The crossing structures are located on the eastbound and westbound lanes approximately 11 miles west of Cheyenne. The structures, which were built in the late 1950s, have undergone numerous rehabilitations over the years. WYDOT began the process of applying for federal funding in January 2021 after determining that the structures met replacement criteria, a release said. 

The Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement’s Special Transportation Circumstances Program will provide funding for the project. The program’s funds are directed to states that lack inner-city passenger rail service.  

Through this grant, WYDOT will receive up to 80% of funds from the federal government and will match the remaining amount. The project’s total cost is estimated to be around $18 million.

“We appreciate FRA’s approval of our project and grant request,” said WYDOT Assistant Chief Engineer of Engineering and Planning Keith Fulton. “This project will help to improve safety for both the railroad and the travelling public.”  

WYDOT will work to finalize the project agreement, which will include developing a work plan, budget, and schedule, now that the project has been accepted. Once the project agreement is signed, the project could take up to five years to complete. 

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