A groundbreaking conservation project in Southern California just took a giant step forward. Recently crews began laying the first layers of soil on the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, which will eventually allow mountain lions, bobcats, deer, and other animals to safely cross over the 101 Freeway. Spanning 10 lanes in Agoura Hills, the crossing will be the largest of its kind in the world—reconnecting vital habitat between the Santa Monica Mountains and the Simi Hills.
The bridge is part of a $92 million effort to restore wildlife connectivity in one of the planet’s most biodiverse regions, long fragmented by roads and development. Once complete, it will feature native plants, trees, and shrubs to blend seamlessly into the surrounding ecosystem. Conservationists say the project is crucial for isolated puma populations showing signs of inbreeding due to limited range.
With 6,000 cubic yards of soil now being placed and native landscaping on the way, the vision of a safe, thriving corridor for wildlife is closer than ever.