Reed Avenue Corridor Project
The Reed Avenue Corridor Project aims to convert the Reed Avenue right of way in Cheyenne’s West Edge into a public space that would provide safe pedestrian and bicycle access, gathering and event space, and economic development opportunities, all while celebrating the history of the corridor. The BNSF railroad track would still exist and would be separated from the public space on the corridor.
The project area follows Reed Avenue from 15th Street to 23rd Street and includes some blocks on either side of the corridor.
Project Status
The Reed Avenue Corridor Project is currently in the design stage following an RFP process in early 2023. Final design is expected by late 2024 or early 2025, though some construction activities may be able to start earlier.
Current work on Reed is funded in part by the current 6th Penny sales tax, which was approved by voters in 2021.
The City will need to secure funding for the construction of the project, and construction on some elements of the project could begin in late 2024.
Public Involvement
The current design phase will have several opportunities for public input. City staff held a public meeting on Oct. 26 about the potential railroad crossing closures at 18th and 21st streets. The next public meeting will be in 2024.
History
The Reed Avenue corridor was created in the early 1900s, when the City of Cheyenne granted a railroad easement within Reed Avenue in part to allow for improved rail access for businesses on the west side of Cheyenne. The railroad easement is now operated by BNSF Railway
Over time, fewer industrial properties were served by the railroad corridor, and by 2017, only the Wyoming Tribune Eagle received deliveries by rail. The resulting situation created the stimulus for the Reed Avenue Corridor Project, which will help preserve the history and current use of the corridor while also reimagining the area into a new community asset.
The Reed Avenue Corridor Project follows the Cheyenne MPO's 2018 Reed Avenue Corridor Plan. This plan was developed with public input, including public meetings and a multiday design charrette, all in 2017.
The Reed Avenue Corridor Plan stems in part from the City's 2016 West Edge Area-wide Plan, which is meant to help guide economic redevelopment in the West Edge.
The Reed Avenue Corridor is part of the numerous public and private redevelopment projects in Cheyenne's West Edge.