Arizona is advancing its commitment to wildlife safety and driver protection by constructing its 27th wildlife overpass, situated just south of Flagstaff along Interstate 17. This new corridor is part of a project expected to drastically reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions that average over 1,200 each year statewide.
- Willard Springs Overpass to finish by fall 2026
- $700,000 annual state funds ensure ongoing wildlife crossing projects
- Over 90% reduction in collisions credited to existing crossings
What happened
Arizona’s Department of Transportation is currently building the Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass, a 100-foot-wide concrete structure spanning Interstate 17, located 12 miles south of Flagstaff. The project includes tall fencing, native plantings, escape ramps, and additional features designed to funnel animals safely across the highway. Construction began in earnest by late 2025, with an anticipated completion date in fall 2026.
This overpass is part of a broader state initiative supported by a dedicated recurring budget of $700,000 starting in 2027, focused on reducing dangerous wildlife-vehicle collisions. The location was strategically selected based on detailed research tracking the movement of elk and other large animals, addressing an area where over half of the collisions involved wildlife in recent years.
Why it feels good
Wildlife crossings like the Willard Springs Overpass have proven highly effective, leading to an average 90% drop in collisions across Arizona’s highway system. This not only improves safety for drivers but also helps reconnect fragmented habitats, allowing animals to move freely and safely within their natural environment.
The collaboration between Arizona’s Department of Transportation and the Game and Fish Department showcases a thoughtful balance between infrastructure development and wildlife conservation. This project illustrates how targeted investments can result in lasting benefits, making roads safer and supporting local ecosystems at the same time.
What to enjoy or watch next
Once completed, the Willard Springs Overpass will join two other new crossings expected along I-17 and I-40, further expanding the state’s growing network of wildlife corridors. Officials plan to monitor the new structure using cameras and continued tracking of elk to evaluate how effectively the animals adapt to the crossing.
As Arizona leads with these innovative safety designs, other states like California are following suit with their own overpasses aimed at preventing crashes and protecting wildlife. For those interested in nature and community safety, these developments offer inspiring examples of how infrastructure can nurture coexistence between people and wildlife.