Jacobs Builds California’s First Wildlife Overpass

Wedoany.com Report-Mar 26, US engineer Jacobs has completed California’s first wildlife overpass as part of the Clinton Keith Road Extension Project in Murrieta in the south of the state.

A mother black bear in California’s Sequoia National Park

Jacobs planned, designed and built the overpass above a six-lane highway extension to let animals cross safely, reducing the risk of collisions and helping to preserve wildlife and ecosystems.

The County of Riverside Transportation Department commissioned east-west corridor to ease congestion. It also integrates bike lanes and pedestrian walkways.

Shannon Crossen, Jacobs senior transportation ecologist, said: “Wildlife overpasses are typically covered with natural vegetation to blend with the surrounding habitat and encourage use. By providing safe passage, these crossings protect native species while improving safety for the travellers.”

More wildlife crossings have been proposed in California’s River County, including a three-span bridge over Warm Springs Creek, a single span bridge over French Valley Creek and custom-designed wildlife fencing to guide species and provide escape routes.