Colorado Wildlife Overpass Cut Vehicle Collisions by 91%

The Greenland Wildlife Overpass project in Colorado has significantly reduced animal-related roadway crashes for local drivers.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Wildlife

Colorado Wildlife Overpass Cut Vehicle Collisions by 91%

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The Colorado Department of Transportation reported a 91 percent decrease in wildlife-vehicle collisions along the I-25 South Gap corridor following the completion of the Greenland Wildlife Overpass in December 2025. The project has also contributed to a 20 percent decline in total crashes across the section.

Why it matters

By reconnecting fragmented habitats with safe crossing options, this infrastructure project significantly enhances road safety for commuters while protecting local wildlife populations. The design was specifically created to accommodate skittish species like elk and pronghorn that previously caused an average of 32 crashes annually.

The mitigation project cost $15 million and features a 200-by-200-foot overpass, five underpasses, and 14 miles of fencing. CDOT monitored these improvements using four cameras installed along the corridor from 2022 to 2024.

The players

Colorado Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for managing highway infrastructure and coordinating wildlife mitigation programs across Colorado.

Greenland Wildlife Overpass

A 200-by-200-foot specialized crossing structure built to reconnect habitats separated by the I-25 South Gap.

The details

The system guides animals away from traffic using 14 miles of fencing that funnels them toward designated crossings. The Greenland Wildlife Overpass incorporates a brush berm to encourage smaller animals to traverse the structure comfortably. These crossing points provide a more appealing environment for wildlife to cross the interstate safely rather than venturing onto the active roadway lanes.

2018: CDOT began the five-year South Gap roadway project.
2022-2024: CDOT conducted a study of crash data and camera monitoring.
December 2025: The Greenland Wildlife Overpass construction was completed.
Spring 2027: The first results of the genetic study are expected.

The Home Front

This project aligns with a growing trend of prioritizing wildlife connectivity in state transportation infrastructure to reduce driver insurance claims and enhance road safety. It follows a pattern established by large-scale initiatives like the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing.

Drivers frequently traveling the I-25 South Gap should note that while collision risks have dropped, it is still important to stay alert for animals near fenced areas. Residents should maintain adequate coverage on their vehicle insurance policies to protect against unforeseen roadway hazards.

The takeaway

Large-scale infrastructure projects can effectively protect both commuters and local wildlife by creating dedicated corridors for migration. Stay informed about local roadway construction projects that may improve safety in your regular driving route.