Colorado wildlife overpass cut vehicle-animal collisions by 91%, report finds
Summary
A new wildlife overpass in Colorado has reduced collisions between animals and vehicles by 91% in 10 months. The bridge spans a busy interstate and connects large areas of animal habitats, allowing many species, including elk and bears, to cross safely.Key Facts
- The overpass crosses Interstate-25 between Denver and Colorado Springs.
- It is 200 feet wide, 209 feet long, and covered with grass to resemble natural habitat.
- Before the overpass, there was about one wildlife-vehicle crash per day in this area.
- The structure helps large animals like elk and pronghorn that prefer open spaces to cross safely.
- Smaller animals such as mule deer, coyotes, rabbits, frogs, and a threatened mouse species also use the crossing.
- The project cost $15 million, funded by $22 million in federal money and $8 million from the state, with savings achieved during construction.
- Nearly 20 wildlife crossings are being built across the U.S. to protect animals and reduce accidents.
- Colorado officials plan to build more wildlife crossings in the state following this success.
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