World’s Largest Wildlife Crossing Set To Break Ground In Agoura Hills
Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. Image via Living Habitats.
BY: STEFANY HEDMAN 5:30 AM ON APRIL 18, 2022
The world’s largest wildlife crossing is set to break ground on Earth Day, April 22 of this year, in Agoura Hills… The project aims to protect big cats, coyotes, deer, lizards, snakes and other animals as they cross into the Santa Monica Mountains, giving them better access to food and potential mates. Mountain lions, in particular, were a major motivator for the crossing, as their genetic diversity continues to decline. The effort has been in the works for over a decade.
Agoura Hills. Photo by Stefany Hedman.
Although wildlife bridges are fairly common, this one will be distinct because of its large size and proximity to a major metropolis. It will only be 35 miles northwest of Downtown Los Angeles. The structure will be 200 feet long and cross ten highway lanes and a feeder road.
Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. Image via Living Habitats.
The project is expected to cost $90 million. Sixty percent of the funds will come from private donations, and the rest from public funds reserved for conservation purposes. It will be titled Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, for the philanthropist whose foundation donated $25 million.
Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing. Image via Living Habitats.
Construction is anticipated to finish by 2025. Work will largely take place at night to prevent shutdowns of the 101 freeway. Roughly 300,000 cars a day travel the section of the 101.
