Local Politics · Lincoln County
Lincoln County Commissioner Mel Shumway confirmed the county commission sent a letter to federal officials supporting Alternative 2 of the 2001 Roadless Rule, which would rescind nationwide prohibitions on road construction and timber harvest in national forests. Shumway said rescission would allow local ranger districts in the Bridger-Teton National Forest to plan roads for wildfire mitigation, logging, habitat management, water projects, and search-and-rescue access, subject to existing environmental reviews. The forest contains approximately 3.2 million acres of roadless land, with about 1,500 miles of mapped roads and roughly 24,000 acres of inventoried roadless areas. Shumway emphasized no immediate construction would follow rescission, stating the process still requires local planning, funding decisions, and environmental review.
Community News · Lincoln County
Fire Station #2 in the Alpine Fire District is now operational at 28 Palomino Dr. in Etna, WY, serving residents in Etna, Freedom, and areas south of Alpine. The station is equipped with 4,000 gallons of water for firefighting operations. Homeowners within five miles of the new station are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to request a policy review, as proximity to fire protection resources can affect premium rates. Insurance agent Sierra Booth in Alpine confirmed that some clients have already seen updated policies reflecting the new coverage.
Community News · Thayne, WY
Mayor Devin Simpson said Thayne's annual public forum gives residents and surrounding community members a chance to learn about town projects, offer suggestions, and raise concerns. This year's completed improvements include resurfacing the former tennis court area for six pickleball courts with nighttime lighting through a partnership with Lower Valley Energy, placing sand for a volleyball court near the pavilion across from the elementary school, and adding three murals near the community center via a Wyoming Arts Council grant. Looking ahead, a sidewalk on Hokanson Avenue prompted by a 10-year-old's request at last year's forum is expected to be built in summer 2028 using a TAP grant, and a sewer line is planned for next year to serve potential development.
Community brief · Afton, WY
The Star Valley Braves, the top seed from the West, will host the fourth-seeded Rawlins Outlaws in a 3A Wyoming High School Activities Association playoff game at 5 p.m. Friday at Braves Field in Afton. Admission is $5, and SVI Media will stream the game on its platforms with broadcast fees covered by Aspen Physical Therapy. Coach McKay Young hopes for a strong crowd aided by Halloween weekend, with students expected to wear costumes. Early…
Community brief · Alpine, WY
Wyoming Classical Academy-Alpine is hosting a Fall Festival on Saturday, October 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Academy campus, 200 Buffalo Drive in Alpine. The event, held in partnership with the Town of Alpine Trunk or Treat, features a live DJ, bounce house, firepits with s'mores, face painting, a photo booth, coloring table, and pony rides from 5 to 6 p.m. Chef Tony Reyes will offer tamales, Mexican corn, quesadillas, and street tacos for…
