Story perspectives

Arizona to Build $15.8M I-17 Wildlife Overpass by 2026

6/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Arizona Department of Transportation and Game and Fish Department are building the 100-foot Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass over Interstate 17, slated for fall 2026.
The $15.8 million project adds eight miles of fencing, native vegetation plantings and escape ramps.
Arizona’s wildlife corridor network has cut wildlife-vehicle collisions by about 90%.
The 2027 budget earmarks $700,000 annually for planning and building wildlife crossings, bringing the state’s total to 26 structures.

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Story summary

The Arizona Department of Transportation and Game and Fish Department are building the 100-foot Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass over Interstate 17, slated for fall 2026.
The $15.8 million project adds eight miles of fencing, native vegetation plantings and escape ramps.
Arizona’s wildlife corridor network has cut wildlife-vehicle collisions by about 90%.
The 2027 budget earmarks $700,000 annually for planning and building wildlife crossings, bringing the state’s total to 26 structures.