Wildlife Overpass Under Construction Near Flagstaff
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A $15.8 million wildlife overpass is being built south of Flagstaff to help decrease dangerous vehicle-animal collisions on Interstate 17.
Mitch Bowen has experienced the risks of wildlife on Arizona’s roads. While driving over 70 miles in his Chevrolet Colorado on I-17 from his home in Donny Park, he encountered two elk unexpectedly in his path.
“I knew I had to act fast. It was either get under the truck next to me or swerve somewhere else,” Bowen recalled.
Although he and his wife escaped physically unharmed, the collision resulted in significant damage to both the elk and his vehicle. He had mere seconds to respond while traveling at highway speeds.
In 2023, the Arizona Department of Transportation reported over 2,000 wildlife-related crashes, resulting in more than 240 injuries and four fatalities.
To tackle this persistent issue, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and Arizona Game & Fish started constructing the wildlife overpass in April, located 12 miles south of Flagstaff. The project is slated for completion by fall 2025.
The overpass will span approximately 100 feet in width specifically for wildlife. Access for pedestrians and off-road vehicles will not be allowed.
Audrey Navarro, a Biology Program Manager at ADOT, discussed the measures being taken to ensure animals utilize these new structures.
“We’ll be putting up wildlife fencing, or game fencing, directing elk and deer to this area,” Navarro explained.
The project also includes planting native vegetation like West Wheat Grass, which helps guide wildlife during their natural migrations. However, Navarro cautioned that it may take years for animals to adapt to using the new crossings.
“Typically, it requires several years for them to adjust,” she noted.
ADOT advises drivers to slow down, stay in their lane, and be prepared to stop if they encounter any wildlife on the highway.
As for Bowen, he found an unexpected benefit amid his unfortunate incident. After receiving a large game rescue permit, he was allowed to harvest meat from the elk.
“The elk meat is fantastic,” Bowen said. “I’ll be eating this for two years!”
