Mitigation efforts will reduce animal-related incidents
Posted on June 15, 2022 2022News and EventsTransportation
From the Colorado Department of Transportation:
The Colorado Department of Transportation, in cooperation with Myers and Sons Construction, has begun installing wildlife fencing along Interstate 25 as of June 1. The project, which is expected to be completed in October, is focused on building 10 miles of wildlife fencing, guardrails, and two deer guards at Happy Canyon Road in addition to concrete rehabilitation on I-25.
Crews are currently installing fencing on the west side of I-25, working south to north from Castle Rock Parkway to Ridgegate Parkway. In late summer, they will transition to the east side of I-25.
After several recent collisions and growing public concern, CDOT, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the City of Castle Pines, the Town of Castle Rock, and Douglas County put forth a plan to mitigate wildlife related crashes. Based on wildlife migration studies and collision data, the group determined that exclusion fencing would help significantly reduce the number of incidents along the I-25 corridor. Increased development in the area has caused animal patterns to shift, raising concerns for traveler’s safety. As the fencing continues to go up, CDOT and CPW anticipate a large decrease in wildlife/vehicle collisions and will begin monitoring success in the fall.
CPW recommends drivers stay alert and slow down, particularly at dawn and dusk when wildlife is more active. If drivers do see wildlife in the roadway, they should not swerve, as they are more likely to wreck when trying to avoid an animal. It is best to slow down if possible and look for other wildlife, as most travel in groups.
For additional information about this project:
Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:
Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
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