Safe Wildlife Crossings

Progress Summary

Why Are We Doing This Project

In 2022, Teton County allocated voter-approved specific purpose excise tax (SPET) funds for wildlife crossings to a design project encompassing three priority areas as identified in the Wildlife Crossings Master Plan. These segments were not included in WYDOT’s short- or long-term transportation plans, so Teton County decided to advance them as standalone plans. The goal is to mitigate wildlife-vehicle collisions and ensure safe wildlife movement across highways.

Who Will Benefit

The entire Teton County community, including local wildlife such as elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, moose, and carnivores, will benefit from reduced wildlife-vehicle collisions and safer wildlife crossings.

What is the Estimated Timeline

The project includes a rigorous mitigation design process and consultation with various stakeholders. The timeline for implementation will depend on the completion of design plans and potential integration with future WYDOT highway improvement projects.

Funding And Costs

The project is funded by voter-approved SPET funds. Specific costs for each segment and overall project budget are managed by Teton County in collaboration with local and regional partners. Wildlife Crossings, which require a tunnel under the highway or a bridge over the highway for animals, along with fencing cost millions of dollars. Moving to the next phase of the Teton County Wildlife Crossings project will require additional funding.

Progress Of Project

2022: Allocation of SPET funds and initiation of design project.
Current: Development of conceptual mitigation plans and 30% design plans for three priority locations.
- Teton Pass, Camp Creek, and North Highway 89.