KEMMERER— As the construction season winds down for the winter, the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) would like to warn drivers traveling on US 189 south of Kemmerer that the wildlife crossings project that began earlier this year remains unfinished until crews can return in the spring to complete the work.

“Although we have finished most of the work on the overpass and the fencing on the north end of the project, the fencing on the south end of the project won’t be complete until next year,” WYDOT resident engineer Jennifer Hoffman said.

With the unfinished fencing and crossing structures on the southern end of the project still under construction, both WYDOT and the WGFD are warning drivers to be on the lookout for potential wildlife on the road this winter.

“This section of highway passes through crucial wildlife habitat; animals need freedom to move across the landscape to access resources that allow them to survive. Slowing down and staying alert will keep the roads safe for wildlife and for motorists,” said Jeff Short, Mountain View wildlife biologist.

WYDOT will have two variable message signs warning drivers of potential wildlife conflicts that will remain on the southern end of the project throughout the winter. Both agencies encourage drivers to stay alert and put down distractions to prevent wildlife-vehicle collisions when traveling through the area.

The project, which was awarded to Oftedal Construction, Inc. last year, is funded by a $24.3 million federal grant and an additional $8.8 million in partner contributions. The work will include the construction of seven underpasses, one overpass, and fencing along both sides of the 30-mile stretch of highway. WYDOT and contract crews aim to finish the project by Oct. 31, 2027, with the bulk of the work planned for next year.

The highest risk for collisions are during dawn and dusk hours when wildlife frequent roads at the same time as drivers. During these low-light periods, drivers often don’t see deer before a collision, so many crashes could be avoided by slowing down and being more attentive when traveling these times of the day. 

If a driver collides with deer or other large wildlife on the road, do not try to move the animal from the roadway. Instead, drivers are encouraged to call their local law enforcement agency to report the collision. Drivers can also report roadkill on the Wyoming Department of Transportation’s 511 Travel app.

 Safety tips for avoiding wildlife collisions:

• Drive cautiously, put down distractions and frequently scan the shoulders of the road in front of you.
• Use high beams to see more of the road when possible.
• Watch for eyeshine in the headlights.
• Ask passengers to help watch for wildlife.
• Don’t try to herd wildlife off the road with your vehicle. If there is a crowd, creep up slowly until they disperse. You can honk to encourage them. If they don’t budge, contact Game and Fish.

WYDOT and the WGFD remind drivers to drive safely, put their phones down and obey all roadside signs and closures. Drivers can sign up for 511 Notify alerts and learn more about the 511 WYDOT App at https://www.wyoroad.info.

For information about this news release, contact WYDOT District 3 Public Relations Specialist Stephanie Harsha at 307-352-3000 or stephanie.harsha@wyo.gov or Wyoming Game and Fish Green River Region Public Information Specialist Regina Dickson at regina.dickson@wyo.gov.