$3M In Grants Go Toward Protecting Wildlife Along Highway 152, Gilroy

GILROY, CA — The California Wildlife Conservation Board is providing $3.125 million in grant funding for a wildlife overcrossing spanning Highway 152, which runs through Gilroy.

Local and state organizations including the California High-Speed Rail Authority, Santa Clara Valley Habitat Agency, Caltrans, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority and Pathways for Wildlife issued a news release last week applauding the funding.

The money will support four years of planning and an environmental review for the proposed overcrossing, according to a news release.

The California High-Speed Rail Authority has attempted to allow for wildlife moments in its project planning along the corridor in areas such as Coyote Valley, Pacheco Pass and the Grasslands Ecological Area.

“This grant aligns with the Authority’s planning efforts to increase wildlife connectivity in the San Jose to Merced project section,” said Northern California Regional Director Boris Lipkin. “The award reflects the wide range of support and collaboration we’ve had with key partners focused on protecting sensitive habitats, preserving wildlife movement, and enhancing the natural environment in the project area.”