Hearing of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee - Tribal Transportation: Pathways to Safer Roads in Indian Country

Hearing

"Before we get started, I would like to welcome John Smith from the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming, who is better known as Big John in Wyoming and Del McOmie from the Wyoming Department of Transportation. Both of these men will be testifying today.

"Together, they have worked hard to improve road safety on the Wind River Reservation. In fact, Big John's work was recognized by the President, in May 2014, when he was named a "Champion of Change.'

"The White House stated that John, "has succeeded in improving the reservation's transportation infrastructure (highways and bridges), has led the effort to dramatically cut alcohol-involved crashes and fatalities on the Wind River Reservation. He has worked with tribal leaders to toughen tribal laws to enhance seat belt compliance, and has led the effort to use positive messaging to educate drivers of all ages about the dangers of drinking and driving.' So thank you Mr. Smith for being with us today.

"Big John is accompanied by his Deputy Director, Howard Brown, also from the Wind River Indian Reservation. As these men know too well, there are many roads and bridges on Indian reservations in desperate need of improvement.

"In some places, heavy rain or snow can wash out a bridge or road, cutting off access to schools, jobs, and essential services. There are many reservation roads which are quite hazardous to traverse.

"According to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, only seventeen percent of the roads are considered to be in acceptable condition. The remainder is considered to be in poor and unacceptable condition. According to the National Congress of American Indians, "these roads are among the most underdeveloped and unsafe road networks in the nation, even though they are the primary means of access' throughout these communities.

"The Centers for Disease Control lists motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of death for Native American children. Indian infants, under the age of one year old, are eight times more likely to die in a vehicle-related crash than other children.

"The Wind River Reservation in my state is no exception. Despite the significant improvements achieved by the two tribes - the Eastern Shoshone and the Northern Arapaho - and the State of Wyoming, more work needs to be done.

"According to the Wyoming Technology Transfer Center, the Wind River Reservation still has the highest percentage of critical crashes when compared to the state and local roads. The Wind River Reservation leads the state in motor vehicle crashes for people ages 24 to 34.

"Last year the two tribes, along with the state, completed construction of what is commonly called the "17 Mile Road.' It was an extremely dangerous road. Crashes and deaths occurred all too often on that road.

"Thanks to the diligent efforts of the tribes and the state, the "17 Mile Road' is now much safer. We will hear from our witnesses today how successful planning and joint efforts - such as what occurred in Wyoming - can save lives and improve whole communities."

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