I-17 Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass

Project cost: $21 million

Overview

The Arizona Department of Transportation has initiated a wildlife overpass and fence installation project along Interstate 17 between Kelly Canyon and Munds Park (mileposts 322-331) south of Flagstaff. The Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass and other improvements will be located at milepost 327. The project is expected to be under construction in spring 2025 and anticipated for completion by fall 2026.

ADOT, in partnership with Arizona Game and Fish, sought a $24 million grant through the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program to reduce motor-vehicle crashes involving wildlife and better connect habitats along I-17 south of Flagstaff. The I-17 wildlife project is one of 19 nationally to receive funding through the first round of $110 million in grants from FHWA.

Project Flyer

I-17 Willard Springs Overpass Flyer

Project Area Map

Project Elements

Project elements include:

• Constructing a wildlife overpass bridge over I-17.
• Constructing temporary detour crossovers in the median that will be removed after construction of the overpass is complete.
• Retrofitting the existing right-of-way (ROW) fencing to wildlife fencing.
• Installing wildlife ROW fencing, including new connections to box culverts and metal pipe end treatments.
• Installing gates in ROW fencing, as necessary.
• Constructing wildlife escape ramps.
• Removing and replacing guardrail and concrete barriers.
• Installing, removing and/or replacing cattle guards (double wide).
• Installing wildlife warning traffic signs.
• Seeding all disturbed areas with a native seed mix.

What to Expect

Ongoing daytime lane restrictions will be in place on I-17 Mondays through Fridays to allow crews to construct the overpass and install the wildlife fence. Temporary detour crossovers in the median will be constructed to maintain traffic flow around the work zone.

A minimum of one lane in each direction will remain open during construction. ADOT advises drivers to plan for possible delays while the work is underway.

Restrictions And Closures

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For real-time information about project-related restrictions and closures, visit az511.gov or call 511, except while driving.

Remember to slow down and use caution around construction workers and equipment.

Stay Informed

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• Email/Phone: Contact Community Relations Project Manager Jason Stephens at [email protected] or 480.751.7104.
• Teléfono: Línea de Información del Proyecto ADOT: 855.712.8530.
• Mail: Jason Stephens, ADOT Communications, 1655 W. Jackson St., MD 126F, Phoenix, AZ 85007.