Photo: Moment RF
The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, set to be the world's largest wildlife crossing, is on track to open by early 2026, according to California Governor Gavin Newsom. According to a report by Hey Socal, the crossing, which spans the 101 Freeway near Agoura Hills, aims to reconnect habitats bisected by the highway, benefiting numerous Southern California species.
The crossing is located near Liberty Canyon Road and will stretch over 200 feet long and 165 feet wide across the freeway. It will provide animals with a safe and sustainable way to avoid the surface of the freeway, increasing their options for finding food, shelter, and mates.
"This wildlife crossing is just one example of how California is building infrastructure that connects rather than divides," Newsom said in a statement. "With projects like this, we're reconnecting and restoring habitats so future generations can continue to enjoy California's unmatched natural beauty."
The project, which broke ground on Earth Day 2022, is now more than halfway complete. It has been funded by more than $34 million in philanthropy and $58.1 million from the state. The crossing is expected to reduce collisions between high-speed vehicles and animals on one of North America's most congested highways.