Giant Wildlife Bridge Defies Critics, Nears Completion

A massive wildlife bridge, spanning a 10-lane freeway in northern Los Angeles County, is nearing completion and is scheduled to open for animal use on December 2nd. The project, costing $114 million, faced criticism from some conservative commentators who called it a 'bridge to nowhere' and a 'jobs program for environmentalists.'

Despite the backlash, which included threats against public-facing organizers, the wildlife crossing is poised to become the largest of its kind globally. Initial construction began in 2022, with a revised completion date from 2025 to 2026 due to record rains and flooding impacting the construction schedule.

Officials have defended the project's cost, citing significant inflation in construction materials, which increased the budget from $93 million to $114 million. This rise is reportedly less than the average increase in highway construction costs nationally. The crossing aims to provide safe passage for mountain lions, bobcats, and other wildlife, connecting habitats in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Native plants now adorn the bridge, and early signs of wildlife, including butterflies and lizards, have been observed. Further construction includes a second structure bridging a local road and landscaping to blend the crossing with surrounding hillsides. Over 50 cameras will monitor the area to study animal movement and the project's impact on biodiversity.