Rock Springs local news summary
Week of September 28 2025
TransWest Express Granted Major Permit Extension for Transmission Line
New $44 Million Airport Terminal Celebrated as Community Milestone
Fire Restrictions to be Lifted Across Sweetwater County
Commissioners Tour National Lab Amid Growing Interest in Nuclear Energy
County Secures Impact Funding Agreement for Dry Piney Project
Minors to be Allowed in Microbreweries After Contentious Vote
"Nerf Gun" Ordinance Update Moves Forward
TransWest Express Granted Major Permit Extension for Transmission Line
SWEETWATER COUNTY - The Sweetwater County Commission unanimously approved a significant construction permit extension for the TransWest Express transmission line project. The variance allows the company’s permit to be extended until December 31, 2030, far exceeding the standard 18-month limit. Planners noted the extension is necessary due to the massive scale of the 732-mile high-voltage line, which requires coordination with multiple federal agencies and adherence to wildlife protection windows that shorten the construction season. Company representatives stated that construction has already begun in other counties and is expected to start in Sweetwater County in 2026.
New $44 Million Airport Terminal Celebrated as Community Milestone
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Commissioners celebrated the grand opening of the new commercial terminal at the Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport, calling it a “first class” facility that will serve as a gateway to the region. The total project cost was about $43.3 million, and officials emphasized that the local investment was only $1.25 million, with the remainder funded through federal and state grants secured by the airport board. Governor Mark Gordon and U.S. Congresswoman Harriet Hageman were in attendance for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The new holding room inside the terminal was officially named in honor of Airport Director Devon Brubaker for his years of work on the project.
Renée Jean
Fire Restrictions to be Lifted Across Sweetwater County
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Following a recommendation from the County Fire Warden, the Board of Commissioners agreed to let the current Stage 1 fire restrictions expire as scheduled on September 17. The decision was based on cooler temperatures, morning dew, and increasing fuel moisture levels that have reduced the immediate fire danger. The Fire Warden noted that the BLM will also lift its restrictions for Sweetwater County in coordination with the county's decision. Neighboring counties are taking similar actions, though restrictions may remain in place in areas with active fires like Lincoln and Sublette counties.
Commissioners Tour National Lab Amid Growing Interest in Nuclear Energy
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Several commissioners attended a tour of the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy. The all-day event provided an in-depth look at nuclear research, advanced reactors, and the process for safely handling and storing spent nuclear fuel. Chairman Keaton West described the tour as "fascinating" and highlighted the immense energy potential of nuclear power. The visit comes as Wyoming explores new energy opportunities, including the TerraPower nuclear facility in Kemmerer, and as the county faces increasing demands on its existing power grid.
County Secures Impact Funding Agreement for Dry Piney Project
SWEETWATER COUNTY - Sweetwater County has successfully negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Sublette, Lincoln, and Uinta counties regarding industrial siting impact funds for the Dry Piney project. Commissioner Island Richards reported that Sweetwater County will receive 10% of the impact funding if Sublette County’s application is approved, and 20% if it is not. While a significant portion of the project's construction workforce is expected to reside temporarily in Sweetwater County, officials noted that the county’s actual impact assistance application will likely be for a much smaller percentage, highlighting inconsistencies in the state’s current funding formulas.
Minors to be Allowed in Microbreweries After Contentious Vote
ROCK SPRINGS – In a policy shift, the City Council approved an ordinance that will permit minors in microbreweries until a specified time. The ordinance, which passed on a 7-2 vote, generated considerable discussion among council members. Councilor Milonas voiced concerns, aligning with law enforcement officials, that the city is expanding alcohol access while also focusing on suicide prevention and mental health. Mayor Mickelson acknowledged the validity of law enforcement's perspective but emphasized that the responsibility ultimately lies with business owners and parents. He noted that the national trend is for businesses themselves to restrict access to children and stated the ordinance could be quickly reversed if problems arise. Councilor Eric Bingham joined Milonas in voting against the measure.
"Nerf Gun" Ordinance Update Moves Forward
ROCK SPRINGS – An ordinance designed to prevent teenagers from facing serious charges for playing with toy guns is advancing through the legislative process. The council heard the second reading of a measure amending the city code regarding the discharging of firearms. Mayor Mickelson explained the change is intended to ensure that a youth shooting a friend with a Nerf or Orbeez gun in a parking lot isn't charged with a firearm offense, which he described as a "heavy, serious charge" under the current ordinance. The amendment still allows for charges if the act causes damage to people or property.
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