Colorado Wildlife Overpass Cut Collisions by 91 Percent
The Greenland Wildlife Overpass has successfully diverted animals away from traffic since opening in December 2025.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Wildlife
Live Poll
Should government prioritize spending on wildlife crossings over other transportation infrastructure projects?
Completed in December 2025 near Larkspur, the Greenland Wildlife Overpass has reduced wildlife-vehicle collisions by 91 percent along the I-25 corridor. This $15 million structure spans 209 feet to reconnect 39,000 acres of fragmented habitat.
Why it matters
The project addresses a critical 3.7-mile stretch where previous infrastructure failed to protect both local drivers and migrating animals. By funneling wildlife safely over the interstate, the bridge minimizes costly vehicle damage and improves safety for the 100,000 vehicles passing beneath it daily.
The overpass cost $15 million and spans 209 feet long by 200 feet wide. It serves as the final link in the $419 million I-25 South Gap project, which drew $30 million in combined federal and state funds.
The players
Colorado Department of Transportation
The state agency responsible for maintaining highway safety and managing over 100 wildlife structures statewide.
The details
Engineers constructed the bridge using 76 supporting girders to span the interstate. To encourage animal use, the deck is covered in dirt and native seeds that mimic the surrounding natural terrain. Fencing installed along the highway effectively funnels wildlife toward the overpass and away from the active traffic lanes.
Timeline
December 2025: The Greenland Wildlife Overpass was completed.
September 2026: Collision data was reported by CBS Colorado.
The Home Front
This project reflects a broader shift toward integrating wildlife passage into major interstate infrastructure to resolve long-standing habitat fragmentation. It mirrors the design strategy of the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing as part of a national trend to mitigate collision-related costs.
Drivers in the Larkspur area should remain alert for wildlife on the road despite the new overpass. Keep local wildlife reports in mind if you live near migratory corridors, as these structures are designed to help maintain natural movement across the region.
The takeaway
The successful redirection of wildlife at the Greenland crossing demonstrates the efficacy of strategic infrastructure in reducing highway accidents. Residents can monitor long-term local reports to see if further habitat connections are planned for other high-traffic corridors in the state.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to protect native species in our Wildlife section.
Live Poll
Should government prioritize spending on wildlife crossings over other transportation infrastructure projects?
