How does a state with one of the lowest population densities in the U.S. tackle road safety, walkability, and infrastructure challenges? Wyoming, known for its vast highways and open landscapes, is often perceived as a place where cars dominate and pedestrian-friendly initiatives take a back seat.
However, recent efforts at both the state and local levels are reshaping this perception. From making key towns more walkable to investing in smart infrastructure and road safety measures, Wyoming is taking steps to modernize its transportation network while addressing the unique risks that come with its rural roads and extreme weather conditions.
The state’s focus extends beyond just accommodating vehicles. With increasing federal and state investments in infrastructure, Wyoming is working on improving pedestrian safety, integrating connected vehicle technology, and mitigating risks on its long, often hazardous highways. These developments are crucial as Wyoming consistently records high per capita traffic fatality rates due to speeding, road departures, and wildlife collisions.
The Surprising Push for Walkability in America’s Least Populated State
Despite being the least populated state in the U.S., Wyoming is making notable strides to enhance walkability and pedestrian infrastructure. This commitment is evident in several recent initiatives and investments aimed at improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
State-Level Initiatives
In 2022, the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) released the "Wyoming Crosswalks Options and Costs Report", which provides detailed analyses of various pedestrian safety measures, including the implementation of automated pedestrian detection systems and the construction of pedestrian overpasses and underpasses. These measures are designed to improve pedestrian safety at critical crossings across the state.
Community-Led Efforts
Communities throughout Wyoming are actively seeking to improve livability by investing in biking and walking pathways, as well as walkable main streets. These local initiatives aim to create safer and more accessible environments for residents and visitors alike.
Infrastructure Investments
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is set to deliver significant funding to Wyoming, with an emphasis on repairing and rebuilding roads and bridges to enhance safety for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists. This federal support underscores the importance of developing infrastructure that accommodates various modes of transportation.
Why Wyoming’s Open Roads Can Be Dangerous (And What’s Being Done About It)
Wyoming's expansive open roads, while picturesque, present significant safety challenges. In the first six weeks of 2023, the state recorded 20 fatalities on its highways, marking a five-year high for that period. Notably, many of these incidents occurred on Interstate 80, a major corridor traversing the southern part of the state.
Factors contributing to these accidents include adverse winter weather conditions, driver inexperience with rapidly changing road environments, and the unique hazards posed by long stretches of rural highways. For those involved in serious collisions, navigating the legal and financial aftermath can be overwhelming, making it essential to consult a skilled car accident attorney who understands Wyoming’s unique road risks and liability laws.
To address these challenges, WYDOT has implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing road safety. The 2023 Wyoming Highway Safety Improvement Program emphasizes the identification and mitigation of high-risk areas through data-driven approaches. This includes the Wyoming Rural Road Safety Program, which utilizes crash data and on-site evaluations to prioritize local road safety needs. By applying proven safety strategies, such as improved signage, road markings, and infrastructure enhancements, the program seeks to reduce the frequency and severity of accidents on rural roads.
Wyoming has also benefited from federal support to bolster its road safety efforts. In 2024, the state received $2.8 million through the Safe Streets and Roads for All program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These funds are allocated directly to communities for the implementation of safety measures, including planning and demonstration projects aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries.
The Future of Roads in Wyoming - Smart Infrastructure in a Frontier State
Wyoming is at the forefront of integrating smart infrastructure into its transportation system, aiming to enhance road safety and efficiency across its vast landscapes. A significant initiative is the Connected Vehicle Pilot Deployment Program, launched in 2015.
This program focuses on the 402-mile stretch of Interstate 80, a critical freight corridor often challenged by severe weather conditions. The project involves equipping approximately 400 vehicles with onboard units and installing around 75 roadside units to facilitate real-time communication between vehicles and infrastructure. This setup enables the dissemination of vital information such as road hazards, weather updates, and traffic conditions, thereby enhancing situational awareness for drivers.
Building on the success of the CV Pilot, WYDOT secured a $1.5 million grant in 2024 from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation program. This funding is designated for the development of "smarter" work zones through advanced connected vehicle technologies.
The initiative aims to provide drivers with real-time information about work zone conditions, including reduced speed limits, lane closures, and the presence of workers. By integrating these updates into WYDOT's 511 traveler information system and sharing data with third-party applications, the project seeks to enhance safety for both motorists and construction personnel.
Looking ahead, Wyoming is expanding its focus to include Vehicle-to-Everything technology, which facilitates communication between vehicles and various elements of the transportation system, such as traffic signals and pedestrian devices. In 2024, the state was recognized as a leader in developing standards for V2X under a federal grant program. This technology is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce accidents, and support the eventual deployment of autonomous vehicles by enabling seamless interaction between all road users and infrastructure components.
Conclusion
What does the future of Wyoming’s roads look like in a state known for its wide-open highways and small, scattered communities? While walkability initiatives and smart infrastructure may not be the first things that come to mind when thinking about Wyoming, the state is making calculated moves to enhance safety, connectivity, and efficiency. Investments in pedestrian infrastructure, connected vehicle technology, and data-driven road safety programs demonstrate a growing commitment to creating a safer and more accessible transportation network.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Wyoming’s vast rural landscape, unpredictable weather, and high-speed road culture require continuous adaptation. However, with federal funding, state-led initiatives, and local community involvement, Wyoming is laying the groundwork for a future where both pedestrians and drivers benefit from improved infrastructure. Whether through smarter highways, enhanced pedestrian safety measures, or vehicle-to-everything communication systems, the state is proving that even in the least populated state, road safety and innovation are priorities.