Eastern Sierra Travelers, Prepare for a Scenic Detour Near Bridgeport
If you’re planning a September adventure along Highway 395 between Bridgeport and Walker, California, be prepared for a temporary detour. Caltrans will be closing the road for two weeks beginning September 4th to install much-needed wildlife crossings. While this closure may disrupt travel plans, it’s a crucial step towards preserving the region’s delicate ecosystem.
The Sonora Junction Shoulders Project is more than just a road improvement. It’s a testament to the growing understanding of the importance of wildlife corridors. Two massive underpasses will soon provide safe passage for mule deer and other animals that call this area home. With a staggering 69 reported wildlife collisions since 2002, the need for this project is clear.
“Wildlife crossings are essential for maintaining ecological connectivity,” “By reducing human-wildlife conflicts, we not only protect animals but also enhance public safety and preserve the natural balance of the ecosystem.” – Wildlife-Vehicle Collision Reduction Study
These aren’t just empty promises. Studies have consistently shown the positive impacts of wildlife crossings. A 2022 analysis by Washington State University found that these structures can save hundreds of thousands of dollars annually by reducing animal-vehicle collisions. In Colorado, a crossing along State Highway 9 reduced collisions by a remarkable 90% in just five years. Similar success stories come from Oregon and Canada, where wildlife crossings have significantly decreased the number of accidents involving animals.
Beyond the financial benefits, these crossings play a vital role in protecting wildlife populations. The Trans-Canada Highway project is a prime example, where corridors have not only reduced collisions but also helped grizzly bears find mates, promoting genetic diversity.
While the closure may cause some inconvenience, it’s a small price to pay for the long-term benefits to both wildlife and humans. As you navigate the scenic detours, remember that you’re contributing to a brighter future for the Eastern Sierra.
What you need to know: U.S. 395 will fully close for 15 days within the Sonora Junction Shoulders Project while crews install two under-highway wildlife crossings, providing safe and sustainable passage for mule deer and other area wildlife. Beginning Wednesday, September 4, U.S. 395 will fully close between Bridgeport and State Route 108 for 15 days while crews install two wildlife crossings underneath the roadway as part of the Sonora Junction Shoulders Project.
The project, which began construction in May, is widening the shoulders of the highway to 8 feet, installing rail-element retaining walls, and stabilizing slopes with anchored mesh in addition to installing the wildlife crossings. Each “plate pipe” archway undercrossing will measure more than 70 feet in length and stand between 9.5 feet and 11 feet high. With 69 reported wildlife collisions since 2002 (many more incidents go unreported), Caltrans biologists identified this stretch of U.S. 395 as a crossing hotspot for the West Walker herd of mule deer. The addition of two oversized culverts and fencing to direct animals away from traffic aims to reduce wildlife mortality rates on this stretch of U.S. 395.
TRAFFIC IMPACT / Detour information: Drivers are advised that the only detours available around the closure are as follows: Northbound motorists can take State Route 182 from Bridgeport and connect with Nevada Route 338. Southbound traffic coming from Nevada can connect with Nevada Route 208 at Holbrook Junction and take the 338 south.
Those traveling over Sonora Pass and Monitor Pass can head north on U.S. 395 through the communities of Walker, Coleville, and Topaz to reach Holbrook Junction. Access to U.S. 395 between Bridgeport and Burcham Flat Road will be available to
local traffic only.
To get the latest information on conditions on the State Highway System, visit the Caltrans QuickMap site at quickmap.dot.ca.gov or download the app to your smartphone. You can also call the Road Condition Hotline at 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). Find out how California is building for a better tomorrow by visiting build.ca.gov and rebuildingca.ca.gov.
Additional Resources on Wildlife Crossings:
https://highways.dot.gov/public-roads/winter-2024/07
