The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has announced the beginning of construction on a wildlife overpass on Interstate 17, aimed at connecting natural habitats and reducing vehicle collisions with animals. The overpass, set to be located 12 miles south of Flagstaff, comes with a $15.8 million price tag and is chiefly financed by a federal grant from the Federal Highway Administration’s Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, as reported by the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Partnering with the Arizona Game and Fish Department, Arizona Department of Transportation is not only focusing on the overpass but also plans to install wildlife fencing extending over 8 miles along the interstate. As this particular area lacks bridges and has only one road culvert usable by animals such as elk and deer, the move is seen as a critical step in enhancing local wildlife conservation efforts. The agency noted that this section was responsible for 58% of animal-related crashes between Stoneman Lake Road and Flagstaff from 2018 to 2022, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation release.
The structure itself will be an earth- and vegetation-covered bridge north of Willard Springs Road, designed to facilitate the safe passage of a range of animals, including bears and the abundant local elk population. Spanning 100 feet in width, the bridge will incorporate steel-reinforced concrete girders to ensure durability. Construction is projected for completion by the fall of 2026.
To minimize disruptions, temporary crossovers in the I-17 median will allow for traffic adjustments, enabling the highway to remain open through the duration of the construction. However, lane reductions to a single lane in each direction will still be implemented for certain periods, so drivers are advised to budget additional time for travel. Safety barrier walls are also to be erected to separate opposing lanes of traffic. For the latest highway conditions, travelers can consult the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov or download the AZ511 app for both Apple and Android devices.
