STATEMENT: Round one of wildlife crossing grants will save wildlife, motorists’ lives

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on Tuesday the first round of wildlife crossing grants for states, with funding courtesy of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal). This initial round of money for wildlife crossings will devote $110 million of the available $350 million toward 19 projects across 17 states. 

These pilot grants include money for states to develop plans, to identify wildlife collision areas and, for those shovel-ready states, to build overpasses, underpasses and fencing needed to give wildlife room to roam. 

In announcing the grants, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg made the case that motorists will benefit, saying: “Every year, too many Americans are injured or killed in crashes involving cars and wildlife, especially in rural areas – but President Biden is tackling this challenge through these first-ever roadway safety grants. The projects we’re funding today in 17 states will reduce collisions between drivers and wildlife and save American lives.”

Environment America has staff in several of those 17 states who can speak upon request about the local repercussions.

In response to the wildlife crossing grants, Environment America’s Senior Director of Conservation Campaigns, Steve Blackledge, issued the following statement: 

“Many people view roadkill as an unfortunate byproduct of driving, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Plus, the harm to wildlife runs deeper. Roads have fractured habitats and penned in America’s animals, from the endangered ocelot in Texas to migrating pronghorn in Wyoming. For the sake of these species, we must do better. 

“The best time to build a wildlife crossing was when the road was built. The next best time is today. We’re pleased that Secretary Buttigieg is handing these funds out, and we’re thrilled that the states are lining up, eager to receive funding to save wildlife and motorists alike.

“Building crossings over (or under) busy roadways filled with whizzing cars is one of the best methods we have to keep people and animals safe.”