Colorado prepares to open the Greenland Wildlife Overpass on I-25, a major project to protect animals from highways.
The state faces budget pressures as federal grants remain frozen and state funding has run out.
Other completed, ongoing, or planned crossings include Colo. 9 near Kremmling, U.S. 160 west of Pagosa Springs, and I-70 near Vail Pass.
Colorado and New Mexico collaborate on a crossing at Raton Pass along the I-25 border.
Greenland Overpass and Road Safety Benefits
The Greenland Wildlife Overpass spans six lanes, more than 200 feet long and wide, linking critical wildlife corridors.
CDOT installed fencing and underpasses to guide elk, pronghorn, and predators safely across the highway.
Studies show overpasses reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by up to 90 percent, protecting both animals and drivers.
Motor vehicle collisions with deer cost about $19,000, elk $73,000, and moose $110,000 per accident.
Smaller species also benefit from underpasses with sticks, brush, and culverts that allow safe passage.
Legal and Fiscal Obstacles
Trump-era executive orders froze federal WCPP grants, delaying additional Colorado projects despite judicial injunctions.
Colorado lawmakers exhausted state funds allocated in 2022 and 2023, leaving no dedicated money for new crossings.
Future projects on Raton Pass, U.S. 40 near Empire, and U.S. 160 west of Durango await WCPP funding release.
Experts warn climate change increases the urgency, as animals migrate to new habitats, facing deadly road hazards.
Advocates push Congress to increase federal WCPP funding from $350 million to $500 million to meet nationwide demand.
