Title
Receive a presentation from the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization - Wildlife Crossing Study
Abstract
Introduction & Background: CAMPO has conducted a Wildlife Crossing Study for the portion of the Cape Fear River Basin that is within its jurisdiction. Partner organizations include Chatham County, Wake County, NCDOT Division 5, NCDOT Division 6, NCDOT Division 8, Army Core of Engineers, NC Wildlife Resource Commission, Wildlands Network, Triangle Conservation Collaborative, Town of Cary, Town of Apex, Town of Holly Springs, Town of Lillington, Town of Coats, Town of Angier, Town of Fuquay-Varina, and the Town of Morrisville. The intent of this study is to identify roadway corridors and structures (bridges, culverts, pipes, etc.) with high Wildlife Vehicle Crash (WVC) rates so that future infrastructure treatments can be incorporated into their maintenance or new design.
Discussion & Analysis: The CAMPO Wildlife Crossing Study is an implementation-oriented effort that directly advances several of the policy objectives established in the Chatham County Comprehensive Plan. The study seeks to identify roadway corridors and structures with elevated wildlife-vehicle crash rates and evaluate opportunities for crossing improvements, while the Comprehensive Plan emphasizes the protection of natural resources, environmentally sensitive areas, and interconnected open spaces. Together, these efforts demonstrate how transportation planning can be leveraged to support broader conservation goals.
In addition, the Wildlife Crossing Study reflects the collaborative planning approach encouraged by the Comprehensive Plan. Chatham County is a partner in the study alongside CAMPO, NCDOT, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, municipalities, and conservation organizations. This regional partnership recognizes that wildlife movement, watersheds, transportation networks, and ecological systems do not stop at jurisdictional boundaries. By working across agencies and geographic areas, the study exemplifies the coordinated decision-making framework envisioned by the county's long-range planning efforts.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: The study aims to identify roadway corridors and structures with high wildlife-vehicle crash rates and recommend wildlife crossing improvements that can be incorporated into future transportation projects. The Chatham County Comprehensive Plan establishes a 25-year vision for growth, land use, conservation, and transportation. One of its major themes is protecting natural resources and conserving environmentally significant lands while accommodating development.
Budgetary Impact: No budgetary impact identified.
Recommendation/Motion: Receive a presentation from the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization - Wildlife Crossing Study.