advertisement
25 December 2023
To enhance public safety and wildlife habitat connectivity, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has secured a $24 million grant to construct a dedicated wildlife overpass along a previously treacherous stretch of I-17 near Flagstaff.
This 8-mile segment of I-17, situated in the Willard Springs area, currently lacks structures enabling wildlife to safely traverse the freeway. The upcoming 100-foot-wide overpass aims to address this critical issue by providing safe passage for various animals, including elk, deer, foxes, bobcats, black bears, coyotes, and mountain lions.
As Arizona’s population continues to grow, initiatives like wildlife overpasses and underpasses serve a dual purpose. They not only reduce the incidence of wildlife-vehicle collisions, thus safeguarding public safety but also aid in the reconnection of fragmented habitats, enabling wildlife to access vital resources.
Furthermore, the project encompasses the installation of new wildlife fencing, further assisting animals in navigating through fenced sections of the freeway.
The need for such measures is underscored by ADOT’s data, which reveals that 58% of wildlife-related vehicle collisions occurred in this specific freeway section between 2018 and 2022, spanning the region from Flagstaff to Stoneman Lake Road.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) grant, a vital funding source for this initiative, has garnered considerable support from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Their commitment includes $1.5 million in matching funds, alongside a $750,000 allocation designated for project design.
Additionally, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has granted $1 million through the America the Beautiful Challenge initiative. This, combined with $387,000 in matching contributions, will facilitate the retrofitting of fences along I-17, extending from Munds Park.
Arizona Game and Fish has already had success with wildlife bridges with the desert bighorn sheep super highway over Highway 93. With findings that show that desert bighorn sheep vehicle collisions dropped by at least 85 percent.
Ultimately, this project signifies a promising development in safeguarding the vital habitats of elk, deer, and other wildlife species in northern Arizona, simultaneously enhancing safety for travelers along this critical corridor.
advertisement
Arizona comes alive in November with festivals, art shows, and outdoor events celebrating the best of culture, cuisine, and creativity. From Día de los Muertos celebrations in downtown Phoenix to the glow of floating lanterns in Tempe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall. advertisement Mikiztli Día de los Muertos Phoenix Festival Celebrate the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos at Mikiztli, a family-friendly event honoring Indigenous roots and community remembrance. Enjoy mariachi performances, ballet folklórico, face painting, local art, and food trucks. The evening concludes with a lively sunset procession led by Las Flacas, towering 8-foot skeleton
Long before the Valley of the Sun became the desert city we know today, this region was a hub of dynamic earth processes that left behind the strange formations that make up the Papago Mountain. advertisement Ancient Origins Some of Arizona’s oldest geological features, such as the mountains around Sedona and Tucson, date back approximately 2.7 billion years. In comparison, the Phoenix area is geologically young, at 15 to 30 million years old. This makes it one of the newest regions in the state. Notably, much of Arizona’s ancient rock has been uplifted and carried far from its origin. Some
Arizona’s craft beer scene is flourishing, with major cities offering a diverse array of brewpubs that cater to every palate. Here’s a guide to some of the best brewpubs in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Tempe. advertisement Phoenix Wren House Brewing Company: Located at 2125 N 24th St, this brewery is renowned for its award-winning beers. For instance, the Spellbinder IPA is crafted with Arizona-grown Sonoran white wheat and a blend of Cascade, Citra, and Mosaic hops. Hop Culture Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.: Situated at 201 E Roosevelt St, this brewery emphasizes local ingredients. It offers unique brews that reflect the
The Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, is a testament to the immense power of time and geology. It spans over 277 miles, reaching depths of more than a mile, and offers visitors a stunning view of layered rock formations that tell the story of Earth’s geological history. But how did this awe-inspiring landscape come to be? The formation of the Grand Canyon is the result of millions of years of geological processes, combining erosion, volcanic activity, and the slow movement of tectonic plates. advertisement The Ancient Foundations The Grand Canyon’s story began long
