Wyoming to Invest $6.7 Million in Modernizing Green River Tunnels on I-80

Wyoming has received a $6.7 million federal grant to modernize the twin Green River tunnels along Interstate 80 (I-80). The project will introduce new smart lighting systems, weather monitoring technology, emergency communications equipment, and fire suppression systems to improve roadway safety along one of the state’s major freight corridors and reduce the risk of serious accidents and prolonged closures.

The funding comes from the federal Multimodal Projects Discretionary Grant program for freight and nationally significant highways and will cover approximately 87% of the project’s total cost. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) will oversee the project, which is designed to improve travel conditions for motorists and commercial transportation operators.

The modernization effort reflects the strategic importance of this highway segment and the need to strengthen safety measures following a fatal multi-vehicle accident in the Green River tunnel in February 2025.

New Technology to Improve Roadway Safety in Wyoming

Interstate 80 is one of the most important freight transportation routes in Wyoming. The stretch between Green River and Rock Springs carries the state’s heaviest interstate traffic, with approximately 23,000 vehicles per day, according to the latest State Freight Plan assessment. These figures highlight the importance of keeping the twin tunnels operational and safe.

Kevin Hawley, president and CEO of the Wyoming Trucking Association, said the new technology will provide motorists with advance information about roadway conditions and give emergency responders additional resources to address potential tunnel fires.

One of the project’s main components will be the installation of a smart lighting system in the eastbound tunnel. The technology will use automated dimming software to adjust light intensity in real time based on changing conditions. It will also include backup power and be synchronized with the lighting system in the westbound tunnel.

The upgrades will include new electronic message signs to alert drivers to hazards, traffic conditions, and potential incidents along the corridor. Variable speed limit signs will also be installed, allowing officials to reduce vehicle speeds during adverse weather conditions or other situations that pose safety risks.

Another key improvement will be the installation of road weather information system (RWIS) stations equipped with webcams in both tunnels. These devices will measure temperature and wind speed while also detecting ice on the roadway. The information will help authorities identify hazardous conditions and provide timely warnings to drivers traveling along I-80.

Safety inside the tunnels will also be improved through the installation of new bidirectional amplifier systems designed to strengthen communications and emergency connectivity. These systems will improve signal transmission through the structures’ thick concrete linings, which currently make communication inside the tunnels more difficult.

In addition, WYDOT will install dry-pipe fire suppression systems designed to operate even in the subfreezing temperatures common in Wyoming. These systems will improve the ability to respond to potential fires, protect motorists, and minimize damage to tunnel infrastructure.

When Will Construction Begin on the Green River Tunnels?

According to WYDOT’s preliminary schedule, the project could go out for bid in fall 2027. However, because of the region’s typically harsh weather conditions, construction is not expected to begin until spring 2028.

During construction, one tunnel will remain open to traffic, with vehicles traveling in both directions through a single structure. Some traffic is also expected to be temporarily rerouted through the community of Green River.

For this reason, officials will ask drivers to use extra caution, particularly because of pedestrian traffic along streets designated as alternate routes. WYDOT recommends reducing speed, avoiding distractions, and staying alert while driving, especially during unfavorable weather conditions.