WYDOT seeking public input on Bighorn Y intersection alternatives

Wyoming Department of Transportation Senior Public Relations Specialist Laura Dalles and WYDOT District Traffic Engineer for NE Wyoming District 4 Michelle Edwards made an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse to discuss the alternative options being proposed for the Bighorn Y intersection. 

The intersection of US 87, WY 332, and WY 335, known as the Bighorn Y intersection, underwent a study through a contractor paid for by WYDOT. The intersection has accumulated many reported near-miss accidents and WYDOT receives concerning reports about merging and speeds in the area. 

The intention of the study was to determine if the department should change the intersection to allow for safer and more efficient traffic flow. The contractor proposed three alternatives to WYDOT that span from making no changes to emplacing a traffic circle to make for more efficient and safer traffic flow. 

M. Edwards

According to Edwards, nothing has been decided and WYDOT would like to gather as much public comment on each of the alternatives for the future of the intersection as possible before moving forward. 

The first alternative is to make no changes. This is a standard option per procedure according to Edwards. The intersection would remain the same as it is currently laid out. 

M. Edwards

The second alternative would be the installation of a single-lane roundabout or traffic circle. 

M. Edwards

Edwards said with the roundabout option, surrounding properties would be impacted as traffic circles do require larger amounts of space with realignments of streets entering and exiting the roundabout. Positives include the reduction of speeds on the roadway that a roundabout would cause.

The third option is a traditional four-way stop.

M. Edwards

The fourth option of installing a traffic signal is not being carried forward as the traffic volumes are not high enough according to federal standards to meet signal warrants.

WYDOT is inviting the public to comment on each of the alternatives and add any input the public feels may be relevant to each option. 

Make a comment and learn more by clicking here.