North America’s Largest Wildlife Overpass Is Working: Animal Collisions on I-25 Down 91%

– credit, Colorado Department of Transportation In March, GNN reported that North America’s largest wildlife overpass had opened in December over Interstate 25 near Larkspur, in Colorado. Now, 10 months on from its opening, data has demonstrated that the 6-lane lifeline for bears, elk, moose, and other animals is working, with 91% fewer collisions between wildlife and vehicles. Measuring 200 feet wide and 209 feet long, the overpass covers 41,800 square feet (3,900 sq. meters), making it the single largest bridge structure for wildlife in North America—and one of the largest in the world. It includes not only the bridge deck, but 5 wildlife underpass tunnels for smaller or more timid animals to cross as well. Thousands of yards of fencing funnel creatures to the bridge, completing the infrastructure. Estimates from Colorado DoT officials expected collisions to be reduced by 90%—and indeed the figures after 10 months have been 1% better. “We are thrilled,” said Bridget O’Rourke, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, to the Colorado Sun. “Wildlife overpasses and underpasses and funneling animals to have a safe path across the roads, it’s been statistically proven that it’s successful.” It’s not just the bear or elk that are crossing
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