Animal Crossing, Wells, NV

The Nevada Department of Wildlife and the Nevada Department of Transportation were concerned for the safety of animals and drivers alike across I-80, an area negatively affected by animal-vehicle collisions. As a solution to this issue, the construction of a wildlife crossing structure began. Wildlife crossings have provided a safe passage for wildlife migration through man-made bridges and tunnels. Originally designed using native backfill, the animal crossing in Wells, Nevada experienced over 18″ of settlement on its northern side. Three months after it was completed, in order to stop the settlement, engineers decided to replace the top 11’ of soil fill with a lightweight backfill material.

The native fill of the wildlife crossing bridge was removed, MSE panels were disassembled and Class II cellular concrete was chosen as the lightweight backfill material to prevent any further settlement.