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
If you’ve ever heard Arizona referred to as the “Copper State,” there’s a good reason for it. Copper has played a vital role in Arizona’s history, economy, and development for more than 150 years. In fact, Arizona produces more copper than any other state in the U.S., supplying a significant portion of the nation’s demand for this valuable metal. From historic mining towns to massive open-pit mines still operating today, copper has helped shape Arizona into the state it is today. advertisement Arizona’s Rich Copper Deposits Arizona is blessed with an abundance of copper ore thanks to millions of years
Petrified Forest National Park is unlike anywhere else in the world. Located in northeastern Arizona, this remarkable national park is home to one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood on Earth. But there is much more to discover than ancient trees. Visitors can also explore vibrant badlands, fascinating archaeological sites, historic Route 66 landmarks, and landscapes that seem almost otherworldly. Whether you are planning a road trip across Arizona or simply looking for a unique outdoor adventure, Petrified Forest National Park is a destination that combines geology, history, and natural beauty into one unforgettable experience. advertisement
Arizona unveils a spectacular display of vibrant colors that paint the sky in the magical moments that follow the setting sun. As daytime gives way to twilight, the heavens come alive with fiery oranges, delicate pinks, majestic purples, and even hints of green. These dramatic sunsets have become synonymous with Arizona’s identity, captivating residents and visitors alike. But what makes Arizona’s sunsets so extraordinary? Let’s delve into the factors contributing to these awe-inspiring displays and unveil the secrets behind their breathtaking beauty. Moisture and Diffusion of Light One key factor that sets Arizona’s sunsets apart is the state’s arid climate.
Nestled into a towering limestone cliff in central Arizona, Montezuma Castle National Monument is one of the best-preserved ancient dwellings in North America. Despite its name, the site has nothing to do with the Aztec ruler Montezuma. Instead, it stands as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Indigenous people who lived in the Verde Valley centuries before European explorers arrived. Today, Montezuma Castle National Monument offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Arizona’s rich cultural history and remains one of the state’s most popular historic attractions. advertisement What Is Montezuma Castle? Montezuma Castle is a five-story cliff
