The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has earmarked $110 million in grants for 19 wildlife crossing projects across 17 states, marking the inaugural funding round of the five-year Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program-a $350 million initiative instated by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

 

The impact of wildlife-vehicle collisions extends beyond the immediate danger on the road, as the FHWA has revealed data showing over one million such incidents occur annually in the U.S., leading to around 200 human fatalities, 26,000 injuries, and an economic toll exceeding $10 billion. This multifaceted cost encompasses factors like loss of income, medical expenses, and property damage.

Projects benefiting from this funding include a $24 million initiative in Arizona to construct the I-17 Munds Park to Kelly Canyon Wildlife Overpass, focusing on reducing collisions along the highway and enhancing habitat connectivity for local species. Wyoming secures $24.3 million to build overpasses, underpasses, and wildlife fencing along 30 miles of US 189, a corridor notorious for high wildlife-vehicle collisions. Colorado and California will see $22 million and $8 million, respectively, to develop dedicated wildlife crossings on busy highways.

Pennsylvania receives $840,000 to formulate a statewide wildlife crossing plan in collaboration with relevant agencies. FHWA emphasizes that these projects not only reduce wildlife crashes and their economic fallout but also contribute to habitat connectivity, fostering environmental sustainability.
https://aashtojournal.transportation.org/fhwa-issues-110m-in-wildlife-crossing-project-grants