The Highway 82 Mitigation Strategy translates scientific analysis into actionable infrastructure recommendations for our highest-priority corridor. This comprehensive plan provides a phased approach to reconnecting wildlife habitat while enhancing public safety. .

The Challenge: Despite traffic exceeding 17,000 vehicles per day—creating a near-complete barrier to wildlife—over 300 collisions with wildlife were reported in a decade, including 107 elk and 14 black bear incidents. The highway has become a barrier threatening to permanently isolate populations on either side.

The Solution: A comprehensive system of wildlife crossings paired with strategic fencing—proven to reduce collisions by 80-90%:

• Near-term improvements: Immediate enhancements to existing fencing and driver sight lines

• Phase 1 (Airport to Cozy Point): Two major crossings including a bridge underpass at Sky Mountain and wildlife overpass at Brush Creek with continuous fencing

• Phase 2 (Cozy Point to Aspen Village): Up to three additional crossings extending protection through Wildcat Ranch and Aspen Village