The National Wildlife Federation and Caltrans started work on the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing.
After decades of research by National Park Service, biologists and collaborators, a new wildlife overpass is coming together - with a groundbreaking set for April 22, according to an April 20 news release. When the project is complete, the wildlife in Liberty Canyon will be able to move around more easily, in spite of the 10-lanes of the 101 Freeway.
"Our partners have taken our science and worked to change this corner of the world. They have bought critical lands, designed and built public works, raised funds and developed the protections that give wildlife a chance of surviving into the future," said David Szymanski, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area superintendent.
According to the National Park Service, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area was created Nov. 10, 1978. It is the 295th unit of the National Park System as part of the National Parks and Recreation Act of 1978, and it is home to many different species.
"It's super exciting to see the science that we've worked so hard on for many years result in concrete action to benefit wildlife," said Seth Riley, wildlife branch chief for the Santa Monica Mountains recreation area. "This is a pivotal moment for conservation and for our park."
The Annenberg Foundation announced the crossing project in October 2021. Wallis Annenberg and the Annenberg Foundation are issuing a record-breaking challenge grant of $25 million for the project in 2021.
