The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) has reported a sharp increase in sign thefts across southeast Wyoming, raising alarms about public safety and financial burdens, Cap City News reports.
The thefts include essential safety signs such as stop signs as well as large “Welcome to Wyoming” signs.
WYDOT officials warn that stolen stop signs pose a serious hazard to drivers, particularly those unfamiliar with the area. Without clear signage, motorists may unknowingly drive through intersections without stopping, increasing the risk of collisions.
“Stolen stop signs cause a great risk to the traveling public,” said Mike Ginther, District 1 traffic supervisor. “Travelers unfamiliar with an area can blow through an intersection and involve themselves and others in a crash they normally would have stopped or yielded to.”
Replacing stolen signs is a costly endeavor for the state. WYDOT estimates that large “Welcome to Wyoming” signs cost between $2,000 and $3,000 each to manufacture and replace, while smaller versions cost between $1,500 and $2,000. In addition to the cost of replacing the signs themselves, WYDOT must also account for the expense of replacing posts and repairing defaced signs. These costs put a strain on the state’s highway maintenance budget, which also funds snow removal, pothole repairs, and other critical infrastructure projects.
Under Wyoming law, the theft of signs can be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the value of the stolen property. Theft exceeding $1,000 is classified as a felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Defacing signs with stickers or markings also carries legal consequences, further increasing the financial strain on state resources.
WYDOT is urging residents to report missing or stolen signs as soon as possible. Reports can be made to the Laramie District Office at 307-745-2127. Prompt reporting helps WYDOT quickly replace essential signage, thereby reducing safety risks for drivers.
