North Carolina lawmakers appropriated $2 million in funding for infrastructure to help reduce wildlife–vehicle collisions across the state.
The Safe Passage Fund Coalition said the money will go toward overpasses, underpasses, and fencing along roads and highways to help keep wildlife and humans safe.
“We are so grateful that the North Carolina General Assembly has prioritized funding to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions on Interstate 40 near the Smokies in Haywood County,” Southern Appalachian director of National Parks Conservation Association Jeff Hunter said in a written statement.
The NCDOT will be able to address three of the 13 Interstate 40 projects recommended by the Safe Passage Fund Coalition.
According to a news release, NCDOT plans to use the majority of the $2 million from this budget for more wildlife fencing, planning, and the construction of a mitigation project at Hurricane Creek. The remaining funds will be used to develop estimates and feasibility plans for two potential wildlife overpasses, one bridge replacement, and two culvert replacements.
Source : WWAY
