Agoura Hills Wildlife Bridge Set to Begin Construction

Years in the planning and development, {25.11.19} the Agoura Hills wildlife overpass is schedule to break ground on Earth Day, April 1st. The bridge over Hwy 101 connects two nature reserves in the Santa Monica Mountains. The heavily travelled highway has taken an enormous toll on wildlife attempting to cross ten lanes of traffic. Especially hard hit are the remaining mountain lions hanging on to rapidly disappearing habitat. It will be the largest in the world, over 2oo ft long. The project will cost an estimated $90 million and is scheduled for completion in 2025. Sixty percent of the project cost is funded by private donations. Governor Gavin called the bridge an "inspiring example" of public-private partnership not to mention a huge win for wildlife conservation. 

The 'poster cat' for the bridge is P-22, a mountain lion who became famous for crossing two freeways to make a Los Angeles park his home. He is one example of the native cats risking life and limb to find suitable homes in one of the largest metropolis in the world. Drivers will speed through Liberty Canyon beneath the 65-foot wide bridge covered in natural vegetation, including trees, growing on top. Many motorists will hardly notice another overpass, but wildlife will be able to cross without becoming roadkill. Designers took pains to make it blend in with the local topography with berms and hollows to block out highway noise and lights. The project has widespread public support, unusual for a transportation project. The enviornmental impact statement received 9,000 public comments with only 15 expressing opposition to the crossing.