BISMARCK – U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer, R-ND, chair of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure; Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., EPW T&I ranking member; John Curtis, R-Utah; and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., introduced legislation to reauthorize the Wildlife Crossings Program.

According to a news release from Cramer’s office, the program provides grants for infrastructure improvements designed to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions. States and tribes can apply for grants to create safe paths for wildlife to cross roads and highways, often in the form of enlarged culverts, underpasses, and bridges. The program was authorized for five years in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which is set to expire next year.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law created the Wildlife Crossings Program to better protect people and animals from the dangers of vehicle collisions, especially in rural states like North Dakota where the two frequently cross paths,” said Cramer.”Our bill reauthorizes and expands the program to support infrastructure projects directly aimed at improving roadway safety.”

“The North Dakota Department of Transportation supports the reauthorization and improvements to this discretionary grant, as it creates safer connections to communities and provides critical passage for wildlife across North Dakota’s transportation system,” said North Dakota Department of Transportation Director Ron Henke. “These crossings will enhance year-round recreation by providing safer travel for people of all ages looking to enjoy the outdoor activities that North Dakota has to offer.”

“Reauthorizing the Wildlife Crossings Program is a priority for state fish and wildlife agencies to enhance the movement of wildlife and ensure safer roads,” said Paul Johansen, chief of the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “Every year, more than 1 million wildlife-vehicle collisions are reported across the United States, resulting in human and wildlife fatalities and costing billions of dollars in damages. We know there are proven solutions – such as culverts, bridges and tunnels that allow animals to migrate safely – to reduce these incidents and save lives.”

According to the Federal Highway Administration, each year there are more than 1 million wildlife vehicle collisions. These accidents result in tens of thousands of injuries, hundreds of fatalities, and cost over $8 billion.