Gurley overpass replacement
Project
Project Overview
The Gurley Overpass Replacement Project is a specific-purpose excise tax item on the November ballot. The request from the voters is $30 million to replace the overpass. The overpass must be replaced because it has reached the end of its structural life. It was built in 1981. If approved, once the funds are collected the tax for this project ends.
This bridge must be replaced because elements of the bridge are failing and repair is more expensive. We know this because the City of Gillette commissioned a study to determine the options available and the report was completed in 2021. The community had three options:
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do nothing and the bridge would go out of service in approximately 2028, and sending 19,000 vehicle trips per day through Brooks Ave (which exceeds the Brooks Avenue corridor capacity and would require additional construction)
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build a new bridge on Butler-Spaeth Road (without 2nd Street grade raised)
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replace Gurley overpass
Why Does the Overpass Need to Be Replaced?
The lifecycle of the bridge is determined by the "deck life." During a presentation to the County Commissioners regarding the SPET ballot in March 2024, the City presented the following summary of the issue with the overpass.
From the City Presentation to the County Commissioners in March 2024
Critical findings from the latest Inspection:
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The condition of the Gurley Bridge deck dictates the life of the bridge itself.
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The range for the estimated end of life of the bridge is 2025 to 2028.
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Any further work on the Gurley Bridge deck requires a full deck replacement.
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Given the cost of full deck replacement, other structural issues with Gurley Bridge, and the age of the bridge, it may be more economically feasible to build a new bridge.
Additional concerns with the existing bridge:
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Weight restrictions prevent use by many vehicles carrying commercial loads—limiting the flow of commerce, goods, and services.
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Presently there is no access for pedestrians or non-motorized vehicles—individuals have been struck while attempting to cross the overpass.
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The bridge is not currently compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)..
Vote For the Gurley Overpass Replacement Project
The Gurley Overpass should be replaced because it is key infrastructure, serving 10,000 vehicle crossings a day and keeping the railroad tracks free of road vehicles. The replacement bridge will be four-lanes and include dedicated space for pedestrians and bicycle traffic. The replacement bridge will also have a higher load rating to support the easy flow of commerce.
Replacing Gurley Overpass is the best investment for the community. To help offset the cost, the City of Gillette has set aside $6 million ($1 million per year) and will continue to set aside this money for the project. The City also secured $3 million through federal appropriations. The City has also tried to secure funding from the state via WYDOT but could not because the bridge is not a state-maintained structure. The City has also worked with State House and Senate officials to try and secure funding but were unable to secure any additional funding through those measures.
It is now up to the voters to decide whether this key transportation infrastructure will be replaced. We believe every resident should vote yes for this project and ensure Gurley Overpass continues to provide needed transportation for our community.