Six months after its completion, Colorado’s Greenland Wildlife Overpass—a giant bridge designed to allow animals to safely cross six lanes of traffic—has finally welcomed its first elk. This milestone signals progress in protecting wildlife and reducing collisions on busy highways.
- Colorado has over 100 wildlife crossings, the most in the U.S.
- The Greenland Overpass is the largest in the world and opened in 2025.
- Three elk recently used the overpass, proving its success.
What happened
Colorado completed the Greenland Wildlife Overpass along interstate I-25 in less than a year, finishing ahead of schedule and on budget. This enormous crossing is the largest in the world, measuring 200 feet wide and 209 feet long, and was designed specifically to help animals such as elk safely cross six lanes of highway. It features gentle slopes and natural landscaping to encourage wildlife use.
Approximately six months after construction finished, wildlife officials recorded three elk crossing the overpass, a heartening sign that the structure is serving its purpose. The project was a collaboration between the Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and local government, aiming to reduce the risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions in a region rich with migrating animals.
Why it feels good
The successful use of the overpass by elk represents a meaningful victory in balancing the needs of wildlife with those of human transportation. Elk and other large animals are often wary of crossing underpasses or enclosed tunnels, so this overpass was designed specifically to be inviting and accessible to them. Seeing the elk safely traverse this space highlights how thoughtful infrastructure can protect wildlife and save lives.
Colorado’s leadership in creating more than 100 wildlife crossings has helped reduce accidents and foster a safer coexistence between motorists and animals. The Greenland Overpass exemplifies how innovation and collaboration can help preserve critical habitats and maintain ecological connectivity for generations to come.
What to enjoy or watch next
While the Greenland Overpass currently holds the title of the world’s largest wildlife crossing, California is nearing completion on an even bigger project: the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, set to open in December 2026. This ambitious overpass will span a 10-lane urban freeway and is expected to become an important lifeline for mountain lions, bears, and other species in the region.
Watching these groundbreaking projects unfold offers hope for a future where natural ecosystems can thrive alongside expanding human infrastructure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or someone interested in innovative solutions, keep an eye on these crossings that stand as symbols of environmental progress and safety.