The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has completed construction of the I-25 Greenland Wildlife Overpass near Larkspur, marking it as North America’s largest wildlife overpass. The project was finished ahead of schedule and within budget, with the surface of the overpass now covered in dirt and vegetation.
The new structure allows elk, pronghorn, mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, and other species to cross six lanes of interstate traffic safely. It connects 39,000 acres of habitat on both sides of Interstate 25 between Larkspur and Monument.
Governor Polis commented on the achievement: “Colorado is leading the way in reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions, and improving safety for both our motorists and wildlife. The I-25 Greenland wildlife overpass is a momentous feat, in our continued work to expand safe transportation options for both humans and wildlife, protecting critical habitat and our amazing outdoor spaces for generations to come.”
CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew emphasized the significance of the project: “The I-25 Greenland wildlife overpass is critical to the safety of both wildlife and motorists. The overpass is an essential component of the wildlife crossing system in this area, which is expected to reduce wildlife-vehicle crashes by 90%.”
The location was chosen to address a 3.7-mile gap from other crossings and completes a network of underpasses and fencing that are part of CDOT’s I-25 South Gap project. This larger initiative improved an 18-mile stretch from Castle Rock to Monument. Before these systems were implemented, there was an average of one wildlife-related vehicle crash per day during peak migration seasons.
Research conducted by CDOT indicates that five underpasses already facilitate movement for various mammals; however, this particular overpass was designed specifically for elk and pronghorn due to their preference for open structures. Its placement also links important corridors while preserving open space near water sources—an area recognized for frequent large game movement.
