Shoshone and Arapaho Tribes mark creation of Public Works Authority

New intertribal entity will oversee transportation, right-of-way and realty programs on the Wind River Reservation

July 14, 2026

Leaders of the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes marked the creation of the Shoshone and Arapaho Public Works Authority during a July 8 celebration in Lander, Wyoming, according to reporting from County 10. The U.S. Department of the Interior recognized the authority April 27, allowing it to enter Public Law 93-638 contracts with the Bureau of Indian Affairs for shared transportation, right-of-way and realty programs on the Wind River Reservation.

The authority was established through a 2025 Wind River Inter-Tribal Council resolution and is governed by a six-member board representing both tribes, according to the County 10 reporting. Officials said the authority will manage transportation infrastructure projects and seek federal transportation contracts while operating with less reliance on Bureau of Indian Affairs oversight.

1.County 10.

1.County 10.

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