New Wildlife Overpass Transforms Highway Safety for Colorado Animals

Quick Smiles:

• The overpass lets animals safely cross six lanes of traffic on Interstate 25.
• It connects 39,000 acres of habitat near Larkspur for migrating species.
• The project was finished ahead of schedule and on budget as the largest of its kind in North America.

A massive new wildlife overpass now allows animals like moose and mountain lions to safely cross six lanes of traffic on Interstate 25.

This impressive structure connects 39,000 acres of habitat near Larkspur, removing a major barrier for migrating species.

Finished ahead of schedule and on budget, the Greenland overpass is the largest of its kind in North America.

It features a surface covered in dirt and vegetation to help elk and pronghorn feel secure while crossing.

Governor Jared Polis praised the achievement as a momentous feat for protecting critical habitats for generations to come.

Transportation officials noted that five existing underpasses are already being successfully used by various mammal species.

“The I-25 Greenland overpass is a momentous feat,” said Governor Jared Polis.

“Colorado is leading the way in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions, and protecting critical habitat for generations to come.”

“After more than nine years of planning and work, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is excited,” said Wildlife Manager Matt Martinez.

“We look forward to deer, elk, bears, mountain lions and many other species safely crossing I-25, once a major barrier to migration and wildlife movements.”

This life-saving infrastructure was made possible through a public-private partnership and a $15 million federal grant.

It stands as a shining example of how engineering can harmonize with the needs of the natural world.

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