Nevada lawmakers support AB 486 to enhance wildlife crossing funding and safety measures

The Nevada Senate Committee on Growth and Infrastructure convened on April 28, 2025, to discuss critical legislation aimed at enhancing wildlife safety and reducing vehicle collisions through improved wildlife crossing infrastructure. The primary focus of the meeting was Assembly Bill 486, which seeks to solidify the state's commitment to wildlife crossings as a priority for the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT).

Assemblymember Anderson highlighted the success of existing wildlife crossings in Elko, where overpasses have significantly reduced vehicle collisions involving mule deer, thereby saving lives and reducing costs associated with accidents. The bill proposes that NDOT consider wildlife crossings in future project planning, ensuring that these considerations remain a priority for future legislators and transportation officials.

Nick Clero from the Pew Charitable Trust emphasized the growing national momentum for wildlife crossing initiatives, citing recent bipartisan legislation in states like Utah and New Mexico that allocated millions for similar projects. He noted that Nevada has already established a wildlife crossing account, and passing AB 486 would further enhance the state's leadership in this area.

The committee also discussed the financial implications of the proposed projects, with NDOT's Nova Simpson estimating that the top 30 priority projects could cost around $1 billion. The discussion included the need for innovative funding solutions, as traditional funding sources may not suffice given the rising costs of infrastructure projects.

Senator Hansen raised concerns about the impact of vehicle collisions on bighorn sheep populations in his district, prompting discussions on how NDOT prioritizes locations for wildlife crossings based on collision data and animal migration patterns. Simpson explained that NDOT uses a comprehensive analysis to identify high-priority areas for wildlife crossings, taking into account various ecological and safety factors.

The meeting concluded with strong support for AB 486 from various stakeholders, including conservation organizations and the Nevada Trucking Association, who recognized the importance of integrating wildlife safety into transportation planning. The committee's discussions underscored the critical need for continued investment in wildlife crossings to protect both human lives and Nevada's diverse wildlife.