The beginning of a new year inevitably leads to reflection on the previous year. From new art installations to economic and livability improvements, energy-saving initiatives, and human rights achievements, the City of Laramie shares eight successes they achieved in 2024. After City officials identified various benchmarks, the following “wins” were made possible due to the collaboration and involvement of several community members, partners, and organizations.
Spring Creek Trail Phase 1
On June 24th, 2024, Phase 1 of the Spring Creek Trail was completed. With an end goal to stretch from 30th to 3rd Street, the Spring Creek Trail currently provides residents with a convenient, in-town opportunity to walk, run, ride, or simply stroll along the trail to LaPrele Park.
“Completing Phase 1 is the springboard to finishing the Spring Creek Trail project. It was by far the most difficult portion of trail to construct due to tight workspaces, the nearby creek, and mixed land ownership. We are proud of the product produced by Reiman Corporation and hope the community enjoys this new amenity,” says Assistant City Manager, Todd Feezer.
Wastewater Facility Energy-Efficient Upgrades
In November, Laramie Public Works announced the completion (and received a check for $352,300) of energy-efficient upgrades to the Wastewater facility. These improvements offer a guaranteed 20% savings with an estimated 50% savings through the upgrades. Thanks to support from Rocky Mountain Power’s Watt Smart Business Program, this project enhances infrastructure, promotes energy efficiency, and reduces the facility’s carbon footprint, furthering City Council’s commitment to sustainability and long-term energy savings in Laramie.
Human Rights and Relations Commission
The Human Rights and Relations Commission was created and adopted by the City Council on April 2nd in an effort to uphold Wyoming’s Constitutional declaration that “all members of the human race are equal” by working to defend the dignity and worth of all people and promoting inclusion, equity, and mutual respect among community members. The commission was created with seven members appointed by the City Council, who represent the diverse demographics of Laramie’s community.
Art Installations
The City of Laramie welcomed three new art installations including “Resting Moose” by Peter Hazel located in front of City Hall, “Balance of Power” by Pati Stajcar, and “Desert Monsoon” by Paul Bagley. “Balance of Power” and “Desert Monsoon” are part of the Snowy Range Rotating Sculpture Program, administered by the Laramie Public Art Coalition (LPAC). The de-installation of the previous artwork took place in May, and the new pieces were installed in September.
Volunteer Program
In 2024, the City of Laramie launched new software to support its Volunteer Program in collaboration with the University of Wyoming. The goal of the volunteer platform is to open the door for community members to help various City departments make Laramie a better, safer place to live. This winter, the City launched its Snow Angels volunteer initiative that sends a helping hand to residents in need of snow removal assistance around their homes.
Retail Stores
The City of Laramie Community and Economic Development department has been working diligently to bring new retail stores to town. Last year, Homebase, Ulta Beauty, and Ross all opened their doors to Laramie residents. These new retail stores come in conjunction with the City’s Laramie Area Growth Plan (completed in 2023) to improve economic development, housing, transportation, sustainability, equity, and land use.
EMS Transfer Services
By the end of 2024, the City of Laramie and Ivinson Memorial Hospital came to an agreement regarding EMS transfer services. Starting September 2025, Ivinson will take over interfacility transfer services from the City of Laramie.
“Our teams worked diligently to evaluate increased service demands and we agree that shared EMS services are the most effective way to operate into the future,” says City Manager, Janine Jordan, in a press release issued by Ivinson.
Mental Health in Albany County
Finally, in January 2024, the Laramie Police Department was proud to initiate the Albany Care Team Program in collaboration with the Volunteers of America, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, and the University of Wyoming Police Department. This program aims to address the mental health crisis in Albany County with a partnership between local law enforcement and mental health experts. The initiative was formed to effectively respond to mental crisis calls and provide mental health services for at-risk individuals and families in Albany County.