Busy Construction Season Ahead - A Minute with City Manager Matt Hall

As summer arrives in Rawlins, so is one of the busiest Public Works construction seasons our community has seen in several years. This year, residents will notice significant activity across our streets, utility systems, and infrastructure as the City continues investing in long-term improvements designed to strengthen reliability, safety, and quality of life for our community. This year’s projects represent more than routine maintenance. They are part of a broader commitment to modernizing critical infrastructure that serves our residents every day.

There are two major water infrastructure projects scheduled. First, we are installing cathodic protection on the main transmission line from the spring boxes to town. This will extend the life of this 32-mile line by limiting further erosion. Half of the cost of this project is being covered through a grant from Wyoming Water Development.

Our second water project is the installation of a booster pump at the intersection of the high- and low-pressure zones. We have applied for a grant for 50% of these costs to be covered by the State through their Mineral Royalties Grant program. The booster system will not only provide redundancy when the high-pressure pipeline is offline, but it will also allow service to be provided when either the high- or low-pressure lines require repairs in the future.

Our Edinburgh Street project also continues to move forward. Water and sewer infrastructure work is expected to be completed soon, followed by concrete and sidewalk improvements, paving, and a projected completion date this fall. This project is being funded through the Specific Purpose “6th Penny” Tax and Impact Assistance.

In addition, WYDOT has begun initial work on the Higley Underpass Project. This is the fruition of years of work between the City and WYDOT to find the engineering-approved method to safely help pedestrians cross the busy bypass. It is more than 80% funded through the State Urban Systems program with the rest from the Specific Purpose “6th Penny” Tax. Residents should expect traffic detours and delays as construction activity increases throughout June.

Our City Streets Division will also begin its routine summer maintenance schedule, including roadway repairs and other seasonal improvement activities throughout the community. We appreciate the public’s patience as crews work to complete these projects safely and efficiently.

Infrastructure is one of the most important responsibilities of local government. Safe streets, reliable water systems, functional utilities, and dependable public services directly impact economic development, public safety, and the quality of life. These projects reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to responsible planning and investment in Rawlins’ future.

I would also like to recognize the efforts of our Public Works Department, engineering partners, contractors, and utility staff who continue to coordinate these complex projects while maintaining daily operations. Their dedication and professionalism are critical to the success of these improvements.

As construction progresses throughout the summer, the City will continue providing updates regarding project timelines, traffic impacts, and anticipated work schedules through our website, social media platforms, and at council meetings. We encourage residents to stay informed and reach out with questions as projects move forward.

Thank you for your continued support, patience, and partnership as we work together to build a stronger Rawlins for future generations.

Sincerely, Matt Hall

Rawlins City Manager

mhall@rawlinswy.gov 

307-328-4500