Evanston local news summary

Council advances rezoning for new Wyoming Downs facility

Proposed gaming facility to feature 60,000-square-foot building, 500 machines

Wasatch Drive traffic a concern amid new developments

Council greenlights licenses for new restaurant, brewery and gaming facility

New police vehicles approved, but delayed by parts shortage

Beck Land and Livestock granted permit for processing facility

Gravel mining operation approved at Spackman Ranch

Upgrades planned for emergency communication towers

Council advances rezoning for new Wyoming Downs facility

EVANSTON, Wyo. — The Evanston City Council on Tuesday approved the first of three readings for an ordinance to rezone approximately 18.5 acres of land from Industrial Established to Highway Business Established. The change, requested by Wyoming Downs LLC, paves the way for the development of a large off-track betting facility on property located south of Wasatch Drive near Allegiance Circle. The planning commission previously forwarded a unanimous recommendation for approval. The ordinance must pass two more readings at future meetings to be finalized.

Proposed gaming facility to feature 60,000-square-foot building, 500 machines

EVANSTON, Wyo. — Plans presented to the city council for the proposed Wyoming Downs facility revealed a 60,000-square-foot building designed as an "indoor amusement establishment." Michael Brown, a representative for the project, said the site would include approximately 500 gaming machines, a full-service bar, a restaurant and an expansive parking lot. Brown noted the developer hopes to draw customers from Utah and stated the large parking lot could provide overflow space for truckers and travelers when Interstate 80 closes.

Wasatch Drive traffic a concern amid new developments

EVANSTON, Wyo. — During the discussion of the proposed Wyoming Downs facility, Councilman David Welling raised concerns about the potential traffic impact on Wasatch Drive. He noted that the new commercial development, combined with recently approved high-density residential subdivisions planned for across the street, could significantly increase congestion. City staff noted that the Wyoming Department of Transportation has already requested the developer's proposed access point be aligned with Constitution Avenue to improve traffic flow.

Council greenlights licenses for new restaurant, brewery and gaming facility

EVANSTON, Wyo. — The city council approved three separate liquor and permit applications, signaling continued business development in the city. The council approved a new restaurant license for Carnitas Michoacán Mexican Restaurant at 123 10th St.; a transfer of a retail liquor license to Wyoming Horse Racing for its new Horse Palace location on Prospector Drive; and a microbrewery permit for Shades of Pale, Inc., which plans to open as Shades Brewing in the Roundhouse complex.

New police vehicles approved, but delayed by parts shortage

EVANSTON, Wyo. — The approval of city bills included a payment of $138,822 for new police vehicles, but the cruisers are not yet in service. Police Chief Mike Vranish informed the council that the vehicles are currently sitting idle because a design change in the new models has created a manufacturing delay for the necessary protective cages. The department is waiting for a cage to be manufactured before the vehicles can be properly equipped and put on the road.

Beck Land and Livestock granted permit for processing facility

UINTA COUNTY, Wyo. - The commission approved a conditional use permit for Beck Land and Livestock to operate a commercial food and meat processing facility and a convenience store. Dana Beck spoke in favor of the project.

Gravel mining operation approved at Spackman Ranch

UINTA COUNTY, Wyo. - Following a public hearing presented by County Planner Kent Williams, the commissioners unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Spackman Ranch. The permit authorizes gravel mining, crushing and screening operations on the property. No public opposition was voiced.

Upgrades planned for emergency communication towers

UINTA COUNTY, Wyo. - The board accepted a proposal from Rocky Mountain Communication Systems to repair and update communication towers, a move intended to bolster public safety and improve services for first responders. While the proposal was approved by a vote of 3-0, the commissioners noted they will request a formal contract for final consideration and approval at a future meeting.

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