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Colorado: CDOT completes construction of the I-25 Greenland wildlife overpass North America's largest wildlife overpass is open for wildlife

EntSun News/11079924
Douglas County ~ In a groundbreaking achievement for wildlife conservation and road safety, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has completed construction of the I-25 Greenland wildlife overpass near Larkspur. This overpass, spanning six lanes of interstate traffic, is now North America's largest wildlife overpass and is expected to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by 90%.

The project, which was completed in less than a year and on budget, connects 39,000 acres of habitat on both sides of I-25 between Larkspur and Monument. It is strategically located to address a 3.7 mile gap from other wildlife crossings and completes the wildlife crossing system of underpasses and fencing as part of the I-25 South Gap project.

Governor Jared Polis praised the completion of the overpass, stating that Colorado is leading the way in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and improving safety for both motorists and wildlife. He emphasized that this achievement is a testament to their continued work in expanding safe transportation options for both humans and animals while protecting critical habitat and outdoor spaces for future generations.

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CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew also highlighted the importance of this overpass in ensuring the safety of both wildlife and motorists. She stated that it is an essential component of the larger wildlife crossing system in this area, which is expected to significantly reduce crashes involving animals.

The location of the overpass was carefully chosen to connect existing wildlife corridors and preserve open space with good proximity to water. It is also a known area for high movement of large game such as elk, pronghorn, mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions. The overpass was specifically designed to provide safe passage for these species who prefer wide open structures.

This monumental project was made possible through a multi-agency partnership with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), Douglas County, Douglas Land Conservancy, and the Colorado Cattleman's Agricultural Land Trust. The majority of the funding for the project was provided through a federal grant as part of the Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program.

Douglas County Commissioner George Teal expressed his pride in being responsible stewards of their resources, including natural spaces and wildlife. He noted that since 1996, the county has been working with CDOT, CPW, and FHWA to safeguard wildlife habitat along the I-25 corridor. He congratulated everyone involved in this effort, which not only benefits wildlife but also public safety and transportation.

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CPW Area Wildlife Manager Matt Martinez shared his excitement for Colorado's wildlife to finally have access to this overpass after more than nine years of planning and work. He emphasized that it will reconnect large tracts of open space along the southern Douglas County I-25 corridor and allow animals such as deer, elk, bears, mountain lions, and many others to safely cross the interstate.

The overpass itself is an impressive structure, covering 41,800 square feet (nearly an acre) and measuring 200 feet wide and 209 feet long. It is supported by 76 girders and is expected to be used by a variety of wildlife species including big game animals like moose and smaller animals as well. With over 100,000 vehicles traveling through this area every day, this overpass will provide a much-needed safe passage for animals.

This achievement marks a significant step forward in protecting both wildlife and motorists on Colorado's roads. With the completion of North America's largest wildlife overpass on I-25 near Larkspur, CDOT continues to lead the way in creating innovative solutions for coexisting with nature while ensuring safe transportation options for all.

Filed Under: Government, State
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