The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recently awarded the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) with a 2022 Environmental Excellence Award in the Ecosystems, Habitat, and Wildlife category for the Snake River Bridge reconstruction and wildlife crossing integration project.
WYDOT designed the replacement of a bridge on Wyoming Highway 22 over the Snake River near Jackson with Teton County, Wyoming Game and Fish, and community organizations. The design accommodates local and migrating wildlife within the Greater Yellowstone National Park ecosystem.
The design extends the Snake River Bridge to accommodate a wildlife underpass and adds three wildlife crossings. Moose, elk, deer, and other large animals use these features.
FHWA cited WYDOT’s “extensive stakeholder collaboration, community engagement, and environmental considerations.”
The project is under contract, and construction could begin as early as next spring.
“We appreciate the recognition and affirmation from the FHWA that this is a special project that will benefit not just the transportation of motorists but of wildlife, too,” WYDOT Director Luke Reiner said. “I am grateful to our partners who were instrumental in shaping this project into an award-winning success.”
FHWA conferred 14 awards nationwide in environmental categories.
The Environmental Excellence Award recognizes outstanding contributions to environmental stewardship and partnerships beyond traditional transportation project outcomes.