MUNDS PARK, AZ (AZFamily) — The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) says there will be no major traffic restrictions as construction on a wildlife overpass temporarily stops for the winter months.

Work on the $15.8 million wildlife overpass project 12 miles south of Flagstaff started in May and is scheduled for completion by fall 2026.

ADOT says the concrete deck has been poured for the 100-foot-wide bridge, which is designed to allow wildlife, including elk and deer, to cross over I-17.

The overpass ultimately will be topped with soil and native grasses and plants.

In addition to completing the bridge, crews next year will finish the installation of wildlife fencing along 8 miles of I-17.

ADOT said they’ve been working to reduce wildlife crashes in the area for decades.

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